Volatile Memory Data Storage with Automatic Erasure

Resolve Bottlenecks,
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions

Solution Overview

Problem

Existing data transfer methods using external media, such as USB keys, face security issues due to persistent data storage, which can lead to unauthorized access and data recovery, and existing security measures like password protection are not effective in preventing data breaches.

Innovation Solution

A device with a volatile memory for temporary data storage, featuring a power supply module to maintain data for a fixed period, a non-volatile memory for state management, and automated mode switching between 'write only' and 'read only' modes to prevent unauthorized access, with a timer for data erasure and a reset button for user control.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Productivity

If data is stored on external mass media for temporary transfer, then data exchange efficiency is improved, but data security deteriorates due to persistent storage and potential recovery

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvedata exchange efficiencyVSAvoiddata security

Core Design Contradiction:

ProductivityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent changes the fundamental parameter of data storage persistence by using volatile memory instead of non-volatile memory. This parameter change ensures that data is automatically erased when power is removed, resolving the security issue while maintaining the temporary storage function for efficient data exchange

Inventive Principle:

Principle #35Parameter changes

Solution Approach 2:

The patent employs a disposable storage approach where data is written to volatile memory and automatically destroyed after use. The USB key acts as a temporary carrier that cannot be reused for the same data, eliminating the risk of persistent storage vulnerabilities while maintaining transfer efficiency

Inventive Principle:

Principle #27Cheap short-living objects (Disposable)

2Ease of operation

If password protection is implemented on external media, then access control is improved, but security reliability deteriorates due to password leakage and user negligence

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveaccess controlVSAvoidsecurity level

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements self-service security where the system automatically manages data protection without requiring user intervention. The volatile memory automatically erases data when power is removed, and the system autonomously switches between read-only and write-only modes, eliminating reliance on user-managed passwords

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

Instead of allowing access and then protecting it with passwords, the patent inverts the approach by defaulting to no-access state when powered off and automatically granting access only when needed. The security model is flipped from proactive protection to reactive control

Inventive Principle:

Principle #13The other way round (Inversion)

3Quantity of substance

If data is deleted from external media, then storage space is freed, but data security deteriorates because deleted data can be recovered using specific tools

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvestorage capacityVSAvoiddata destruction completeness

Core Design Contradiction:

Quantity of substanceVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent fundamentally changes the storage medium parameter from non-volatile to volatile memory. This parameter change ensures that data is physically erased when power is removed, making recovery impossible and resolving the issue of incomplete data destruction while maintaining adequate storage capacity for temporary transfers

Inventive Principle:

Principle #35Parameter changes

4Reliability

If write protection switch is used on mass media, then data integrity is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates due to user rigor requirements

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvedata integrityVSAvoiduser convenience

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements automatic write protection through the volatile memory architecture and automated mode switching. The system self-manages the protection state based on operational context without requiring manual switch manipulation, maintaining data integrity while improving user convenience

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

Instead of requiring manual activation of write protection, the patent inverts the approach by having the system automatically enter protected states. The write protection is the default behavior managed autonomously by the system based on operational phase

Inventive Principle:

Principle #13The other way round (Inversion)

Data Source

PatentEP2009570B1Device for temporarily storing data

Publication Date: 2010.11.03 THALES SA

Figure 1~2
Figure 3~4
Figure 5

AI summary

The device has connector e.g. universal serial busconnector, connected to an equipment comprising data to be loaded or unloaded. A volatile memory e.g. RAM, stores a data. A battery conserves a state of data during fixed duration. A non volatile memory e.g. ROM, stores a state automaton (200) whose stages are executed by a micro-controller. The automaton permits activation of the device in modes respectively permitting writing and reading of the data on the volatile memory. An independent claim is also included for a method for implementing a data storage device.