Hardware Token Reader Sleep-Wake Control for Low Power Access

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Solution Overview

Problem

Home security systems with keypads cause stress due to the need to enter a security code quickly, which can trigger alarms and notifications if the code is not entered within a short time frame.

Innovation Solution

A battery-powered hardware token reader that initializes a secure access module for communication with a tag transceiver and immediately disables it to reduce power consumption, allowing for secure and efficient disarmament of the security system using an RFID or NFC tag.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If the secure access module is kept initialized and active for secure communication, then security is improved, but power consumption increases

Engineering Contradiction:

ImprovesecurityVSAvoidpower consumption

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSUse of energy by moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The secure access module is initialized periodically only when needed for authentication operations rather than remaining continuously active. The system transitions the module from an initialized state to a disabled state after use, creating a periodic on-demand operation pattern that reduces overall power consumption while maintaining security when required.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #19Periodic action

Solution Approach 2:

The secure access module is extracted from the continuous operation state and selectively activated only when authentication is needed. By separating the secure communication function from continuous operation and enabling it only on-demand, the system reduces power consumption while preserving security functionality.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #2Taking out (Extraction)

2Reliability

If a keypad is used for disarmament, then security control is improved, but user stress increases due to time pressure

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvesecurity controlVSAvoiduser stress

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The mechanical keypad entry system is replaced with a contactless hardware token reader that uses RFID or NFC technology. This substitution eliminates the need for users to manually enter codes under time pressure, replacing the mechanical input method with an automated recognition system that reduces stress while maintaining security control.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The hardware token reader automatically performs authentication by reading the token identifier and comparing it against stored credentials. The system serves itself by autonomously verifying the user's identity without requiring manual code entry, thereby eliminating user stress while maintaining secure control.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

Data Source

PatentUS12498779B2Method and apparatus for reducing power consumption in a hardware token reader

Publication Date: 2025.12.16 UNIVERSAL ELECTRONICS INC

AI summary

A method and apparatus for reducing power consumption of a battery-powered, hardware token reader. A secure access module within the battery-powered hardware token reader is disabled by a main processor while the battery-powered hardware token reader is in a low-power mode of operation. The main processor also enables communications directly with a tag transceiver and then places itself into a sleep state. When a hardware token is placed within the range of the tag transceiver, the tag transceiver wakes the main processor, and the main processor, in turn, powers the secure access module on and initializes it so that the main processor can read information stored on the hardware token via the secure access module.