U.S. patent application number 14/558940 was filed with the patent office on 2015-06-11 for carrying case with multi-frequency shielding.
The applicant listed for this patent is Marc Trombino. Invention is credited to Marc Trombino.
Application Number | 20150158653 14/558940 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 53270417 |
Filed Date | 2015-06-11 |
United States Patent
Application |
20150158653 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Trombino; Marc |
June 11, 2015 |
Carrying Case With Multi-Frequency Shielding
Abstract
A carrying case, comprising a plurality of exterior walls
adapted and configured to form an interior compartment for
accommodating a plurality of objects; a plurality of interior walls
corresponding to the plurality of exterior walls; an inner lining
configured between the plurality of exterior walls and the
plurality of interior walls; the inner lining of said carrying case
configured to include a radio frequency shielding layer; said
plurality of objects embedded with integrated circuits that can
process, store and communicate data on a radio frequency
identification microprocessor; said radio frequency shielding layer
comprised of a shielding material; said shielding material
including a layer of conductive material to attenuate interference
fields and signals which are transmitted at varying frequencies and
wavelengths; and wherein the shielding material is configured to
block access to data which is stored on radio frequency
identification microprocessors embedded in the plurality of
objects.
Inventors: |
Trombino; Marc; (Staten
Island, NY) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
Trombino; Marc |
Staten Island |
NY |
US |
|
|
Family ID: |
53270417 |
Appl. No.: |
14/558940 |
Filed: |
December 3, 2014 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
|
|
|
|
|
|
Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
|
13749662 |
Jan 24, 2013 |
8937816 |
|
|
14558940 |
|
|
|
|
Current U.S.
Class: |
206/719 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A45C 13/18 20130101;
A45C 2011/002 20130101; A45C 11/182 20130101; A45C 2011/186
20130101; A45C 11/00 20130101; B65D 81/30 20130101; B65D 33/00
20130101; A45C 3/001 20130101 |
International
Class: |
B65D 81/30 20060101
B65D081/30; B65D 33/00 20060101 B65D033/00 |
Claims
1. A carrying case, comprising: a plurality of exterior walls
adapted and configured to form an interior compartment for
accommodating a plurality of objects; a plurality of interior walls
corresponding to the plurality of exterior walls; an inner lining
configured between the plurality of exterior walls and the
plurality of interior walls; said inner lining of said carrying
case configured to include a radio frequency shielding layer; said
plurality of objects embedded with integrated circuits that can
process, store and communicate data on a radio frequency
identification microprocessor; said radio frequency shielding layer
comprised of a shielding material; said shielding material
including a layer of conductive material to attenuate interference
fields and signals which are transmitted at varying frequencies and
wavelengths; and wherein the shielding material is configured to
block access to data which is stored on radio frequency
identification microprocessors embedded in the plurality of
objects.
2. The carrying case of claim 1, wherein the layer of conductive
material includes copper, aluminum or nickel.
3. The carrying case of claim 2, wherein the layer of conductive
materials is further adapted to include a layer soldered with no
gaps, foil screen, foam, paint, and/or ink.
4. The carrying case of claim 1, wherein the plurality of objects
includes at least one of money, contactless smart cards, chip
cards, integrated circuit cards, cards which contain writeable
memory cards containing nonvolatile memory storage components,
mobile phone devices, biometric passports, credit cards, driver
identification cards, human beings and cards which contain
microcontroller processing capabilities.
5. The carrying case of claim 1, wherein the frequencies and
wavelengths include Wi-Fi, radiation, radio waves and signals,
electromagnetic waves and signals, and magnetic waves and
signals.
6. The carrying case of claim 1, wherein the plurality of exterior
walls is comprised from plastic, metal and/or composite
material.
7. The carrying case of claim 1, wherein the plurality of interior
walls is comprised from plastic, metal and/or composite
material.
8. A carrying case, comprising: an exterior layer adapted and
configured to form an interior compartment for accommodating a
plurality of objects; an interior layer corresponding to the
exterior layer; an inner lining configured between the exterior
layer and the interior layer; said inner lining of said carrying
case configured to include a radio frequency shielding layer; said
plurality of objects embedded with integrated circuits that can
process, store and communicate data on a radio frequency
identification microprocessor; said radio frequency shielding layer
comprised of a shielding material; said shielding material
including a layer of conductive material to attenuate interference
fields and signals which are transmitted at varying frequencies and
wavelengths; and wherein the shielding material is configured to
block access to data which is stored on radio frequency
identification microprocessors embedded in the plurality of
objects.
9. The carrying case of claim 8, further comprising a knapsack,
pocketbook or clutch.
10. The carrying case of claim 8, further comprising a pair of
pants or trousers.
11. The carrying case of claim 8, wherein the exterior layer is
comprised of fabric.
Description
CLAIM OF PRIORITY
[0001] The present application is a continuation in part
application of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/749,662 filed
Jan. 24, 2013, the contents of the foregoing is incorporated by
reference herein in its entirety for any purpose whatsoever.
FIELD OF THE EMBODIMENTS
[0002] The present invention relates to a carrying case which
contains a multi-frequency shield for portable electronic devices
and electronic smart cards.
BACKGROUND OF THE EMBODIMENTS
[0003] Traditional carrying cases for portable electronic devices
and smart cards are known in the art, such as the carrying case
found in U.S. Publication No. 2012/0067751. Like U.S. Publication
No. 2012/0067751, the carrying case itself does not purport to
shield the device and card from varying frequencies nor do they
claim to protect the sensitive data contained on the device and
card. Such traditional cases provide accessibility to hackers who
can access the sensitive information stored on your device or card.
Other known art involves shielding mobile devices from radio
frequencies by containing a Radio Frequency, or RF shield which is
grounded to the actual mobile device's front or rear face as taught
in U.S. Pat. No. 8,270,929. Such traditional shields do not solve
the need of shielding electronic devices from being susceptible to
varying degrees and types of frequencies other than Radio waves.
Shields electronically connected to the back of the electronic
devices do not provide protection from all directions. Any
uncovered or unprotected part, albeit small, of a portable
electronic device or electronic smart card will enable a savvy
hacker the entryway into accessing sensitive information stored on
the devices or cards. Portable electronic devices and allegoric
smart cards must be shielded and unsusceptible to penetration from
all directions, a feature found in the present invention. In U.S.
Patent Application 2012/0044115, the specific absorption rate (SAR)
of radio frequencies, in light of human health, is redistributed by
an RF shield away from the user of a tablet or computer tablet by
the carrying case. The redistribution magnetic strips found on the
inside of this external case allow for gaps in the shielding of
frequencies equal to and higher than radio waves. Rather than
redistribution, the present invention's frequency shield eliminates
the SAR of Radio Frequencies as well as other frequencies.
[0004] Conventional smart card portable cases, similar to the case
found in U.S. Pat. No. 5,402,095 allow for the remote exchange of
information between the smart card and the vendor receiving station
by exposing the smart card through a clear window sleeve. Such
cases do not solve the problem that the smart card is exposed and
susceptible to hackers and criminals. Since the smart card is not
fully enclosed, it leaves the radio frequency identification (RFID)
tag unprotected which in turn leaves the security of information
susceptible to those trying to penetrate, decrypt and obtain the
sensitive and personal information stored on the smart card. It is
the object of the present invention to provide a carrying case with
a complete enclosure that solves this problem. Furthermore,
conventional smart card cases have not contemplated the increased
use of contactless smart cards. Contactless smart cards do not have
to be exposed and/or accessed through a window sleeve and can be
contained in a secure and impenetrable enclosure, such as the one
found in the present invention.
SUMMARY OF THE EMBODIMENTS
[0005] A carrying case, comprising a plurality of exterior walls
adapted and configured to form an interior compartment for
accommodating a plurality of objects; a plurality of interior walls
corresponding to the plurality of exterior walls; an inner lining
configured between the plurality of exterior walls and the
plurality of interior walls; the inner lining of said carrying case
configured to include a radio frequency shielding layer; said
plurality of objects embedded with integrated circuits that can
process, store and communicate data on a radio frequency
identification microprocessor; said radio frequency shielding layer
comprised of a shielding material; said shielding material
including a layer of conductive material to attenuate interference
fields and signals which are transmitted at varying frequencies and
wavelengths; and wherein the shielding material is configured to
block access to data which is stored on radio frequency
identification microprocessors embedded in the plurality of
objects.
[0006] A carrying case, comprising: an exterior layer adapted and
configured to form an interior compartment for accommodating a
plurality of objects; an interior layer corresponding to the
exterior layer; an inner lining configured between the exterior
layer and the interior layer; said inner lining of said carrying
case configured to include a radio frequency shielding layer; said
plurality of objects embedded with integrated circuits that can
process, store and communicate data on a radio frequency
identification microprocessor; said radio frequency shielding layer
comprised of a shielding material; said shielding material
including a layer of conductive material to attenuate interference
fields and signals which are transmitted at varying frequencies and
wavelengths; and wherein the shielding material is configured to
block access to data which is stored on radio frequency
identification microprocessors embedded in the plurality of
objects.
[0007] It is an object of the present invention wherein the layer
of conductive material includes copper, aluminum or nickel.
[0008] It is an object of the present invention wherein the layer
of conductive materials is further adapted to include a layer
soldered with no gaps, foil screen, foam, paint, and/or ink.
[0009] It is an object of the present invention wherein the
plurality of objects includes at least one of money, contactless
smart cards, chip cards, integrated circuit cards, cards which
contain writeable memory cards containing nonvolatile memory
storage components, mobile phone devices, biometric passports,
credit cards, driver identification cards, human beings and cards
which contain microcontroller processing capabilities.
[0010] It is an object of the present invention wherein the
frequencies and wavelengths include Wi-Fi, radiation, radio waves
and signals, electromagnetic waves and signals, and magnetic waves
and signals.
[0011] It is an object of the present invention wherein the
plurality of exterior walls is comprised from plastic, metal and/or
composite material.
[0012] It is an object of the present invention wherein the
plurality of interior walls is comprised from plastic, metal and/or
composite material.
[0013] It is an object of the present invention wherein the
carrying case comprises a knapsack, pocketbook or clutch.
[0014] It is an object of the present invention wherein the
carrying case comprises a pair of pants or trousers.
[0015] It is an object of the present invention wherein the
exterior layer is comprised of fabric.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0016] Further objects and advantages of the invention will become
apparent from the following description and from the accompanying
drawings, wherein:
[0017] FIG. 1 is an illustrative embodiment of the carrying case in
accordance with the present invention.
[0018] FIG. 2 is an illustrative embodiment of the carrying case in
accordance with the present invention.
[0019] FIG. 3 is an illustrative embodiment of a shipping container
in accordance with the present invention.
[0020] FIG. 4 is an illustrative embodiment of a knapsack in
accordance with the present invention.
[0021] FIG. 5 is an illustrative embodiment of a pocketbook in
accordance with the present invention.
[0022] FIG. 6 is an illustrative embodiment of a pair of pants in
accordance with the present invention.
DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS
[0023] Referring now to the drawings in detail wherein like
numerals indicate like elements throughout the several view, one
sees from the various drawings, namely in FIG. 1 that the carrying
case 100 includes a one piece rectangular exterior hard shell 10
configured to open on a hinge 20; an interior top wall 40 and
interior bottom wall 42 configured to provide protection against
scratching; an inner lining 30 configured on the interior top wall
40 and interior bottom wall 42 of the carrying case; the carrying
case 100 having a first compartment 80 and a second compartment 70
for accommodating a plurality of objects; said first compartment 80
located below the interior top wall 40 and abutted against the
inner lining 30 of the carrying case; said first compartment 80
including a pocket 50 to accommodate a generally rectangular first
object 82; the first object 82 which is embedded with integrated
circuits that can process, store and communicate data on radio
frequency identification microprocessors; the second compartment 70
located above the interior bottom wall 42 and abutted against the
inner lining 30 of the carrying case 100, said second compartment
70 including a perimeter of plastic molding 60 which can be
adjusted to accommodate a second object 72; said second object 72
which is configured to process, store and communicate data on radio
frequency identification microprocessors; said inner lining 30 of
said carrying case 100 configured to include a radio frequency
shielding 32; said shielding material 34 including a layer of
conductive material to attenuate interference fields and signals
which are transmitted at varying frequencies and wavelengths; and
wherein the shielding material 34 is configured to block access to
data which is stored on radio frequency identification
microprocessors embedded in either the first object 82 or second
object 72.
[0024] The shielding material 34 includes a layer of conductive
material including copper, aluminum or nickel. The layer of
conductive materials is further adapted to include a layer soldered
with no gaps, foil screen, foam, paint, and/or ink. The carrying
case too can accommodate a first object 82 including contact less
smart cards, chip cards, integrated circuit cards, cards which
contains writeable memory cards containing nonvolatile memory
storage components, or cards which contain microcontroller
processing capabilities.
[0025] The carrying case too can accommodate a second object 72
including mobile phone devices, biometric passports, credit cards,
or driver identification cards. The frequencies and wavelengths
shielded include Wi-Fi; radiation, radio waves and signals,
electromagnetic waves and signals, and magnetic waves and signals.
The carrying case too includes an exterior hard shell further
comprising an access lid that is opened opposite the hinge located
on the exterior horizontal edge of the carrying case. The carrying
case includes an exterior hard shell to further comprising an
access lid 12 that is opened opposite the hinge 20 located on the
exterior vertical edge of the carrying case. The carrying case too
includes an exterior hard shell comprised from plastic, metal
and/or composite material.
[0026] The carrying case too can be manufactured in two ways, one
with a side hinge 20 as in FIG. 1 and with a back hinge 90 as in
FIG. 2. One or more smart cards can be inserted or slid into the
top slot of the pouch 50 from above or in another embodiment the
smart card can be slid into the pouch's 50 side opening. The top
slot of the pouch 50 can opened and closed with a button or
Velcro.
[0027] A plastic, rubber or composite material molding 60 is able
to fit a variety of portable electronic devices such as a mobile
phone, smart phone or tablet.
[0028] In FIG. 2, the carrying case 100 has a locking mechanism
that secures the carrying case closed. Also shown in FIG. 2, is a
clasp or button 120 which secures the pouch 50.
[0029] A carrying case, including, a one piece rectangular exterior
hard shell configured to open on a hinge; an interior top wall and
interior bottom wall configured to provide protection against
scratching; an inner lining configured on the interior top wall and
interior bottom wall of the carrying case; the carrying case having
a first compartment and a second compartment for accommodating a
plurality of objects; said first compartment located below the
interior top wall and abutted against the inner lining of the
carrying case; said first compartment including a pocket to
accommodate a generally rectangular first object; the first object
which is embedded with integrated circuits that can process, store
and communicate data on radio frequency identification
microprocessors; the second compartment located above the interior
bottom wall and abutted against the inner lining of the carrying
case; said second compartment including a perimeter of plastic
molding which can be adjusted to accommodate a second object; said
second object which is configured to process, store and communicate
data on radio frequency identification microprocessors; said inner
lining of said carrying case configured to include a radio
frequency shielding; said shielding material including a layer of
conductive material to attenuate interference fields and signals
which are transmitted at varying frequencies and wavelengths; and
wherein the shielding material is configured to block access to
data which is stored on radio frequency identification
microprocessors embedded in either the first object or second
object.
[0030] The carrying case includes a layer of conductive material
including copper, aluminum or nickel. The layer of conductive
materials is further adapted to include a layer soldered with no
gaps, foil screen, foam, paint, and/or ink. The carrying case can
accommodate a first object including contact less smart cards, chip
cards, integrated circuit cards, cards which contains writeable
memory cards containing nonvolatile memory storage components, or
cards which contain microcontroller processing capabilities.
[0031] The carrying case can accommodate a second object including
mobile phone devices, biometric passports, credit cards, or driver
identification cards. The frequencies and wavelengths shielded
include Wi-Fi, radiation, radio waves and signals, electromagnetic
waves and signals, and magnetic waves and signals. The carrying
case includes an exterior hard shell further comprising an access
lid that is opened opposite the hinge located on the exterior
horizontal edge of the carrying case. The carrying case includes an
exterior hard shell further comprising an access lid that is opened
opposite the hinge located on the exterior vertical edge of the
carrying case. The carrying case includes an exterior hard shell
comprised from plastic, metal and/or composite material.
[0032] The multi frequency shield of the carrying case is able to
block various frequency strengths. A portable electronic device
such as a mobile device must be able to receive radio frequencies
but at the same time reflect radio energy but not such that you
cannot receive radio signals. Depending on the country, operating
band, and the technology on which a portable electronic device such
as a mobile phone can operate on, the frequency can be as low as
698 MHz for 1.sup.st generation and 2.sup.nd generation wireless
networks. Current 3.sup.rd generation (3G) wireless network mobile
devices can operate on a frequency of 1,710-1,755 and 2,110-2,155
MHz. Fourth Generation (4G) operating mobile devices can operate on
a frequency of 2,496-2,690 MHz. Radio signals exist as a form of
electromagnetic waves. Radio signals are the same form of radiation
as light, ultrasound, infra-red, gamma rays, x-rays etc, differing
only in the wavelength or frequency of the radiation on the
electromagnetic spectrum. Electromagnetic interference (EMI) can
disrupt the operation of any electrical device. EMI can create
malfunction and faulty readings in portable electronic devices. It
can wreak havoc on control systems, data processing equipment and
mobile phones. EMI disturbances interrupt, obstruct, degrade or
limit the effective performance of the portable electronic device's
circuits. This can lead to degradation of data to total loss of
data on the portable electronic device. EMI can intentionally be
used for electronic warfare (e.g. radio and mobile device jamming).
Broadcast transmitter, two way radio transmissions, paging
transmitters, cable TV are all sources of RF interference (RMI) and
EMI. Other sources of RFI and EMI include doorbell transformers,
toaster ovens, electronic blankets, ultrasonic pest control
devices, electric bug zappers, heating pads and touch controlled
lamps, all of which can effect a portable electronic device
functionality. The need for a portable electronic device to contain
a multi frequency shield is a growing issue and one readily solved
by the frequency shielding found in the present inventions carrying
case. Likewise, the need for creating a carrying case which can
both provide security without impeding accessibility to sensitive
and personal information stored on an electronic smart cards is
increasingly important. Todays, high tech and savvy computer
hacker/criminal cannot be afforded any gap or unshielded access to
a person's portable electronic device and smart card. Today's
fraudster could simply bump up against an unsuspecting victim with
an RFID reader and scan a person's RFID signal through material
like a leather wallet or cloth pants. Security concerns exist in
regard to privacy over the unauthorized reading of RFID tags. The
present invention allows a person to confidently and safely be able
to carry their portable electronic device and electronic smart
cards in a fully shielded carrying case.
[0033] Wallets or pockets are harsh environments for portable
electronic devices and smart cards. Smart cards themselves are
plastic, flexible and easily damaged. Portable electronic devices
are expensive and their faces and front screen are prone to
scratches and breakage. The need for a carrying case that can
protect the aesthetic of the electronic device and the card is
desired.
[0034] In general, in a first aspect, the invention features a
carrying case which can open into two opposite compartments. Each
compartment containing a one-piece frequency shield, each of which
is sewn into the interior lining of the carrying two opposite
compartments. Each frequency shield is made from conductive and/or
magnetic materials. The materials used in creating the two
one-piece frequency shields reduce the electromagnetic interference
by mocking the electromagnetic fields emitted from a variety of
sources. The frequency shielding of the carrying case acts to
isolate the portable electrical device and electronic smart cards
from the outside world. The frequency shields of the carrying case
block radio frequency electromagnetic radiation and act as an RF
Shield.
[0035] The frequency shields of the present invention can be
engineered to specificity. The frequency shields can be made from a
variety of materials and in varying thicknesses. Such
characteristics can be adapted and specially ordered by a
manufacturers or consumers depending on the desired strength of the
shield. The interior lining which houses the frequency shields can
be of a soft fabric such as nylon or cotton. The inner lining of
the carrying case holds the shielding in place and also acts as a
scratch resistant layer to the face of the portable electric
devices when the carrying case is in a closed position.
[0036] The carrying case has two opposing interior compartments. In
the preferred embodiment, the first compartment houses the portable
electronic device and the second compartment holds the electronic
smart card. In other embodiments, the carrying case can be designed
to hold a plurality of smart cards or a plurality of electronic
devices. The compartment which holds the electronic smart card may
contain a pouch made of fabric or plastic. The pouch contains an
opening on the top for smart cards to be inserted into. In another
embodiment, the pouch may contain a side opening for smart cards to
be inserted into. In either embodiment, the opening of the pouch
can be secured with a button, clasp or Velcro. The pouches hide the
smart cards signature line, numbers and shield the RFID chips from
hackers.
[0037] The carrying case's second interior compartment houses
portable electronic device such as a mobile phone, smart phone,
tablet or e-reader. The compartment will be fabricated from a
moldable plastic or rubber which can stretch to accommodate a
variety of portable electronic devices brands, styles, models and
sizes. In another embodiment, the portable electronic device may be
inserted into a pouch which can be secured with a button, clasp or
Velcro. In another embodiment, the portable electronic device and
be secured by a Velcro or nylon strap that spans across the top and
bottom of the front face of the device. In the preferred embodiment
of the invention and for maximum shielding protection, the portable
electronic device may be left inside the carrying case such that
the user is able to power on and off and use their portable
electronic device.
[0038] The carrying case can open and close on a front hinge or on
a side hinge. When closed the interior compartments are shielded
from hackers and criminals. For contactless smart cards, the
carrying case will be impenetrable when closed or open. When
closed, the carrying case provides shielding from all directions
and sides. In another embodiment of the invention, the hinge may
contain a locking mechanism which would allow the carrying case to
be opened and closed at varying degrees to provide extra assurances
and shielding to users. When the carrying case is closed, the inner
lining fabric will be one that will provide scratch resistant
protection to the front face of the portable electronic device.
Also, the exterior of the carrying case will be made from scratch
resistant materials such as plastic, rubber or composite materials.
The exterior of the carrying case may contain rounded edges or
squared off edges depending on the users preferences. The exterior
of the carrying case will be fabricated with a lock or clasp to
allow for additional security.
[0039] In additional embodiments of the invention, the inner lining
and exterior shell of the carrying can be made from aesthetically
pleasing styles and designs. Such styles and designs allow for
branding and marketing opportunities and do not affect the
frequency shielding effectiveness.
[0040] The frequency shield of the carrying case is used to prevent
access to data stored on Radio Frequency Identification (RFID)
chips which are embedded in the portable electronic devices and in
a variety of cards including biometric passports. An embodiment of
the present invention may be enlarged to cover and shield a variety
of objects, such as keyboards. The frequency shield can be adapted
to be used to shield medical and laboratory equipment to provide
protection against interfering signals including AM FM TV emergency
services, dispatch, pagers, ESMR, cellular, and PCS. The frequency
shield can be adapted to be used as the interior of shipping
containers, courier packages and mailing envelopes.
[0041] The frequency shield of the carrying case may be constructed
from copper, galvanized steel, aluminum, or conductible rubber,
plastics or shielding paint. The frequency shield will be made from
materials with high conductivity and thus can block high
frequencies. The frequency shield of the carrying cases shield may
be engineered so that the magnetic shield alloys become as
broadband shields that protect against both EMI and RF
interference.
[0042] The frequency shields can be made from a metal, such as
copper, aluminum, silver and gold all of which are dielectric
conductors and or insulators and allow for electromagnetic
interference and waves to be reflected at the surface within the
first few atoms of the material. The frequency shield of the
carrying case absorbs little to no electromagnetic frequency. The
embodiments of the present invention may have its shields
fabricated from sheet metal, metal screen, or metal foam. The
present embodiment may also include a shield that is coated with a
metallic ink or spray painted with similar materials. The ink and
paints consists of a carrier material loaded with a suitable metal,
typically copper or nickel in the form of very small particulates.
The metal aperture can be sprayed and once dry produces a
continuous layer of metal which can then be sewn into the interior
linings of the carrying case. The frequency shields can also be
constructed from shielding fabrics of copper and/or nickel. Nickel
is highly permeable alloy and would allow the nickel to absorb
magnetic fields emitted from a variety of sources. Nickel can be
fabricated as a foil or sheets. The nickel alloy frequency shield
absorbs and redirects magnetic fluxes emitted by a variety of
sources such as motors, power lines or transmitters and shields the
magnetic field away from the portable electronic device and/or the
smart card.
[0043] In a preferred embodiment, the frequency shield would be
fabricated from copper, which would allow the reflection,
refraction and/or diffraction of electromagnetic, radio and
magnetic waves and would not allow the electromagnetic wave to pass
through the shield and into the portable electronic device and card
and thus not affect its functionality. Copper is malleable,
thermal, electrically conducive, resistant to corrosion, high
ductability antimicrobial, and recyclable. Copper can be in the
form of a plate, sheet, strip, foil, or paint. Like the frequency
shielding, the exterior and inner shell of the carrying case may be
shielded as well with a paint such as Y Shield. In the preferred
embodiment of the invention, the shield can be annealed. Annealed
shields can improve a materials attenuation, the ability to absorb
and redirect magnetic fields and waves.
[0044] In limited instances, the frequency shield may be of a mesh
or grid form. Since radio signals have the lowest frequency and
hence the longest wavelengths, any holes in the frequency shield
must be significantly smaller than the wavelength of the radiation
that is being kept out or the enclosure will effectively
approximate an unbroken conducting surface. The higher the
frequency the shorter the gaps in the grid have to be as the
wavelengths are shorter. Regardless, the gaps must be soldered
together for an effective frequency shield (i.e. solid electrical
connectivity between the mesh elements at every junction).
[0045] The frequency shielding for the carrying case is configured
and/or designed to possess 99% shielding effectiveness to shield
frequencies from radio and TV signals with frequencies of 400-600
MHz, cellular phone with frequencies of 800-1900 MHz, Wi-Fi signals
with frequencies at 2800 MHz, Wi-Max at frequencies of 4600 MHz and
future technologies at frequencies of 5500 MHz and above.
[0046] In the preferred embodiment of the present invention, the
carrying case will have two compartments each corresponding to its
own uniquely engineered shield which will be enclosed into the
inner lining. A single smart card can be programmed with multiple
banking credentials, medical, driver license and public transport
entitlements, loyalty programs and club memberships. Multi factor
and proximity authentication can be embedded into a smart cards to
increase the security to all services on the card. The need and
desire for consumers to replace one card if their card is stolen
and not multiple cards is great. Data storage on a smart card could
contain medical information that is critical to an emergency and
when coupled with a portable electronic device can allow the person
assisting to conveniently and easily contact help. Citizen cards,
driver licenses, hospital patient cards, biometric passports all
rely on smart card integrated circuits. Smart Cards can serve as
credit or ATM cards, fuel cards, prepayment cards, electronic
wallets, digital, driver and age verification. Smart cards can hold
or maintain account balances with or without a PIN, in an online or
off line mode. Smart cards hold sensitive information both personal
and financial and need to be protected against hackers and
criminal.
[0047] Smart cards relationship to portable electronic devices such
as mobile phone devices intersect at the use of a Subscriber
Identity Module (SIM), or SIM card. The SIM card is a removable
smart card ICC (Integrated Circuit Card). SIM cards are used to
store service-subscriber key (IMSI), identify a subscriber and
contain the portable electronic devices phone book. Micro SD cards
are also a type of smart card which can be inserted into a mobile
phone. Micro SD cards may contain RFID reader, such that a user's
portable electronic device can be linked to bank accounts and used
in mobile payment. Such systems are used by Visa via payWave,
MasterCard's PayPass, Discover's Zip, and American Express's
Express Pay. Smart cards may also be used as telephone prepayment
cards. Smart cards have been developed for public key
infrastructure (PKI) based smart card management systems. As
discussed above, smart cards hold sensitive information both
personal and financial and need to be protected against hackers and
criminal. However, the smart card needs to be able to be read and
the information accessed by the proper parties.
[0048] The preferred embodiment of this invention will allow for
the carrying of contactless smart cards as well. The carrying case
will be adapted to hold a variety of contactless smart cards that
allow for no physical contact between the card and the reader. Such
smart cards exist for mass transit and motorway tolls such as Easy
Pass. Smart cards are becoming singular in nature and are
frequently programmed to only allow a contactless transaction if it
is also within range of another device like a uniquely paired
mobile phone. Similar to personal electronic devices, contactless
smart cards are powered by RF induction technology and require only
proximity to an antenna to communicate.
[0049] Both contactless and contact smart cards use Radio-frequency
identification (RFID) technology, which is the use of a wireless
non-contact system that uses radio-frequency electromagnetic fields
to transfer data from a tag attached to an object, for the purposes
of automatic identification and tracking. When the carrying case is
partially or fully closed, the shields in the present invention
will be able to protect low frequency, high frequency, and Ultra
high frequency tags found in smart card from ranges as close a
distance as a few millimeters. The carrying case will allow for
cards to be authenticated and/or read from within the pouch while
preventing unauthorized access by hackers or criminals when the
carrying case is in a semi closed or fully closed position.
[0050] The pouch of the smart card compartment of the carrying case
will be able to accommodate smart cards with measurements often
found on a global level 3.37 in.times.2.125 inches or cards at
0.984 in.times.0.591 in cards (normal size of a SIM card). The
pouch can hold a plurality of smart cards, each with a thickness of
at least 0.030 inches. The pouch will ensure additional tamper
resistant security systems while protecting in memory information.
The carrying case will not interfere with a smart cards
configuration settings, application data updates or interfere with
card reading services such as ticket readers and ATM's.
[0051] The invention features a carrying case which is comprised of
an exterior shell which can be opened on a hinge and closed with a
clasp. The exterior shell can open into two opposite compartments.
The first compartment can accommodate a plurality of portable
electronic devices. The second compartment can accommodate a
plurality of electronic smart cards in a pouch. Each compartment
containing a one-piece frequency shield, each of which is sewn into
the interior lining of the carrying case's two opposite
compartments. The frequency shield and the exterior shell may made
from materials that reduces the electromagnetic interference by
mocking the electromagnetic fields emitted from a variety of
sources. The frequency shielding of the carrying case acts to
isolate the portable electrical device and electronic smart cards
sensitive information from hackers, criminals and interference.
[0052] FIG. 3 shows another embodiment of the carrying case 100. In
another embodiment of the invention, the carrying case 100 may be
used in shipping containers wherein it may protect any object which
an RFID tag may be attached to such as money, clothing,
possessions, or even implanted within people. In such an
embodiment, the walls of the shipping container carrying case 100
may be adapted and configured to contain the RFID shielding 34 of
the present invention.
[0053] FIG. 4 shows another embodiment of the carrying case 100. In
another embodiment of the invention, the carrying case 100 may be a
knapsack wherein it may protect any object which an RFID tag may be
attached to such as money, clothing, possessions or books. In such
an embodiment, the interior of the knapsack carrying case 100 may
be adapted and configured to contain the RFID shielding 34 of the
present invention. Whether the knapsack is made from polyester,
fabric, or plastic, the RFID shielding 34 of the present invention
will be beneath the surface of the knapsack while still allowing
for appropriate shielding.
[0054] FIG. 5 shows another embodiment of the carrying case 100. In
another embodiment of the invention, the carrying case 100 may be a
pocketbook or clutch wherein it may protect any object which an
RFID tag may be attached to such as money or possessions. In such
an embodiment, the interior of the pocketbook or clutch carrying
case 100 may be adapted and configured to contain the RFID
shielding 34 of the present invention. Whether the pocketbook or
clutch is made from acrylic, polyester, fabric, foam or plastic,
the RFID shielding 34 of the present invention will be beneath the
surface of the pocketbook while still allowing for appropriate
shielding.
[0055] FIG. 6 shows another embodiment of the carrying case 100. In
another embodiment of the invention, the carrying case 100 may be a
pair of pants or trousers wherein it may protect any object which
an RFID tag may be attached to such as money or possessions. In
such an embodiment, the interior of the trouser carrying case 100
may be adapted and configured to contain the RFID shielding 34 of
the present invention. Whether the pants or trousers is made from
polyester or fabric, foam or plastic, the RFID shielding 34 of the
present invention will be beneath the surface of the pants or
trousers lining while still allowing for appropriate shielding.
[0056] Additional features and advantages of embodiments of the
invention will become apparent in the following description, from
the drawings, and from the claims.
[0057] In order to address various issues and advance the art, the
entirety of this application shows by way of illustration various
embodiments in which the claimed invention may be utilized. The
advantages and features of the application are of a representative
sample of embodiments only, and are not exhaustive and/or
exclusive. They are presented only to assist in understanding and
teach the claimed principles. It should be understood that they are
not representative of all disclosed embodiments. As such, certain
aspects of the invention have not been discussed herein. That
alternate embodiments may not have been presented for a specific
portion of the invention or that further undescribed alternate
embodiments may be available for a portion is not to be considered
a disclaimer of those alternate embodiments. It will be appreciated
that many of those undescribed embodiments incorporate the same
principles of the invention and others are equivalent. Thus, it is
to be understood that other embodiments may be utilized and
functional, logical, organizational, structural and/or topological
modifications may be made without departing from the scope and/or
spirit of the invention. As such, all examples and/or embodiments
are deemed to be non-limiting throughout this invention. Also, no
inference should be drawn regarding those embodiments discussed
herein relative to those not discussed herein other than it is as
such for purposes of reducing space and repetition. For instance,
it is to be understood that the logical and/or topological
structure of any combination of any program components (a component
collection), other components and/or any present feature sets as
described in the figures and/or throughout are not limited to a
fixed operating order and/or arrangement, but rather, any disclosed
order is exemplary and all equivalents, regardless of order, are
contemplated by the invention. Furthermore, it is to be understood
that such features are not limited to serial execution, but rather,
any number of threads, processes, services, servers, and/or the
like that may execute asynchronously, concurrently, in parallel,
simultaneously, synchronously, and/or the like are contemplated by
the invention. As such, some of these features may be mutually
contradictory, in that they cannot be simultaneously present in a
single embodiment. Similarly, some features are applicable to one
aspect of the invention, and inapplicable to others. In addition,
the invention includes other inventions not presently claimed.
Applicant reserves all rights in those presently unclaimed
inventions including the right to claim such inventions, file
additional applications, continuations, continuations in part,
divisions, and/or the like thereof. As such, it should be
understood that advantages, embodiments, examples, functional,
features, logical, organizational, structural, topological, and/or
other aspects of the invention are not to be considered limitations
on the invention as defined by the claims or limitations on
equivalents to the claims.
[0058] All statements herein reciting principles, aspects, and
embodiments of the invention, as well as specific examples thereof,
are intended to encompass both structural and functional
equivalents thereof. Additionally, it is intended that such
equivalents include both currently known equivalents as well as
equivalents developed in the future, i.e., any elements developed
that perform the same function, regardless of structure.
[0059] It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various
modifications and variations can be made to the present invention
without departing from the spirit or scope of the invention. Thus,
it is intended that the present invention include modifications and
variations that are within the scope of the subject invention and
equivalents.
* * * * *