SmartCard Device
December 2008 : 3 months / Client NXP (semiconductor company founded by Philips) / Individual Project This project took place during my study abroad at the Eindhoven University of Technology. The challenge of this project was to design a multifunctional smart card which meets the privacy and convenience criteria and gives users enough control to feel safe for 7 years into the future. The interface of the device provides users customizable control for safety and convenience.
Skills Applied
Literature review, Sketching, Idea Generation, Paper prototyping, Click-through prototyping, User Testing, Concept Development, Video Sketch Production
SmartCard Device
Dual Biometric Scanner + Screen
“Seiko Epsom has developed a paper thin fingerprint reader that has great promise for self-authentication of credit cards and other small devices that require security and authentication, due by 2010.”
Touch Activation
Scans and identifies the fingerprints of hand that is holding the device. Only after the scan is confirmed will the device will enter into the next screen.
Starting Up/Fingerprint Patterns
Device stores user’s fingerprints into it’s memory only allowing the same fingerprints to gain access to the card. User then enters the fingerprint pattern which is also stored in the memory.
Installation of Card Applications
No third party involved in inputting applications on device. User logs in onto respective company’s secure online account, connects device and the PC through USB connection
Control of Device
Secure + Open access
If the user wants more security for certain cards on the device he has the option to set a card to “secure access” which then will require the user to enter their fingerprint pattern in order for the transaction to go through.
Safety Measures
Save picture, wallpaper, or note on welcome screen which appears right before fingerprints are scanned. Device automatically turns off after 8 seconds of inactivity. Incorrect fingerprint pattern the device will shut down completely
Self-Checking / Viewing of Transactions
Need a key code to establish a secure connection between the device and the computer to view the usage history
SmartCard Device
Control of Device
Secure + Open access
If the user wants more security for certain cards on the device he has the option to set a card to “secure access” which then will require the user to enter their fingerprint pattern in order for the transaction to go through.
SmartCard Device
There were initial explorations of ways to provide users physical control of a multi-functional smart card before focusing on the interface
SmartCard Device
User research was conducted with the different paper prototypes that correspond to the different physical prototypes. Users liked the idea of a double check screen that asked whether what the user selected is what they actually meant. This gave the users a stronger feeling of control since if they were to make a mistake they would have another chance to correct it.