Abstract:
A smartcard unit includes at least a smartcard and an attachment enabling the smartcard unit to be worn by a user. The smartcard is accessible to an external reader. A reader unit interfaces with the smartcard to enable an external computer to communicate with the smartcard. The smartcard unit or the reader unit has structure to align the reader unit relative to the smartcard unit in an alignment for communicative interfacing while the smartcard unit is being worn. The smartcard unit or the reader unit has a retainer to secure the reader unit in alignment relative to the smartcard so that the smartcard unit is reversibly separable from the reader unit without damage, in response to a force less than is necessary to detach or damage another part of said system, other than along a longitudinal axis of the smartcard or of a pair of components being separated.

Description:
CROSS REFERENCE TO PRIOR APPLICATION 
       [0001]    This application claims benefit of U.S. Patent Application No. 61/607,119 by Burns, filed Mar. 6, 2012, for a “card holder and reader system for electronic smart card.” The whole content of that application is incorporated herein by reference as if explicitly set forth herein. 
     
    
     FIELD OF DISCLOSURE 
       [0002]    The present disclosure relates to a card holder and reader system for a smartcard, and especially, a system including a card holder that is integrated with or operates in conjunction with a mating card reader to enable use of a smartcard configured for one or both of contact and contactless operation. 
       BACKGROUND OF DISCLOSURE 
       [0003]    Electronic devices, such as a computer or computer system, commonly include an access terminal monitor, keyboard, and mouse, an operating system and or software, and may be connected to a network, including domain, or other control device for example, robotic or industrial controllers. An electronic device may also refer to other electronic machines, control systems, or devices with a HMI Human Machine Interface, including those used in retail, production, and other industries. 
         [0004]    In general, in the interests of conciseness, in the present specification the term “computer” will be used to reference all such electronic devices with an HMI, and not only those more narrowly called computers. 
         [0005]    The expression “computer access” is used to describe that a user person has the ability to interact with a computer in the broad sense of “computer” defined above through an access terminal. In turn, the user may have partial or full operative access to connected systems equipment, networks, software, data, etc. Operative access includes but is not limited to the ability to interact with a computer&#39;s operating system, software, data, network, etc. 
         [0006]    Smartcards have become widely used in a system of “two-factor authentication,” meaning that the user must possess something a smartcard and know something a password, for be authenticated as a valid user and to have operative access to the computer. Typically, the computer user is required to insert his or her smartcard into a smartcard reader connected to the computer, and then enter a valid password in order to obtain computer access. A computer system&#39;s owner/administrator may authorize different users various levels or areas of computer access. 
         [0007]    It is known to provide a person with a card that acts both as a photo ID and as a smartcard for access to computer systems. Conventionally, such cards are worn visibly by the user in a badge holder. The card is then removed from the badge holder and inserted into a card reader attached to the computer, for computer access. However, there is then a risk that the user will move away from his or her computer, leaving the card in the card reader. That both leaves the computer vulnerable to interference by an unauthorized user, and leaves the user without proper ID. 
         [0008]    Since the smartcard is required for obtaining computer access, the computer may also monitor the presence of the smartcard in a smartcard reader so that when the smartcard is removed the computer access is limited or disabled. 
         [0009]    Computers use various methods to determine the presence of the smartcard in the smartcard reader, including: a “card in position switch” that mechanically detects the presence of the card in the reader; smartcard&#39;s contacts; or continuous “polling” communication with the smartcard&#39;s integrated circuit. 
         [0010]    A security risk is created if the computer is left unattended and accessible to an unauthorized user because a previous authorized user fails to remove his or her smartcard from the card reader before leaving the computer. 
         [0011]    The design of conventional smartcards, smartcard holders, and smartcards readers requires the user to effectively lose possession of their smartcard, because it must be removed or disconnected from their smartcard holder, lanyard, wallet, etc in order to insert the smartcard into the smartcard reader, or place the smartcard near a contactless reader. This approach is illustrated by, for example, U.S. Pat. No. 5,337,813, which shows a card holder for displaying a card as an ID badge designed to make the smartcard easily removable, implying a need by users who are constantly removing the smartcard to insert into a smartcard reader for computer access. Smartcard reader designs such as that shown in U.S. Pat. No. 6,015,092 illustrate a desire/need to make smartcard insertion and removal easier by orienting the slot into which the smartcard is inserted at a right angle. Furthermore, current smartcard readers are designed to be “fixed” in place. Examples are a built in reader on a laptop computer, or a desktop mounted card reader. In general the current designs of smartcard holders and readers require users to remove the smartcard from their persons and place the smartcard into the computer&#39;s smartcard reader in order to gain computer access. Since the user is not able to maintain possession of their smartcard during computer access the only method of mitigating the previously discussed security risk is to require users to remember to remove their smartcard when they leave a computer unattended. 
         [0012]    Currently, it would be possible for a user to maintain possession of their smartcard during computer access by attaching the smartcard, without a protective holder, to a retractable ID reel worn by the user. The design of smartcards, smartcard readers, and smartcard holders presents several problems that make this an undesirable method. First, the smartcard reader may lack sufficient pressure to the smartcard&#39;s surface to supply enough frictional force to hold the smartcard in the smartcard reader against the retraction force from the reel. Second, a non-axial force applied to the smartcard by the tether may cause the smartcard to become stuck in the smartcard reader. That may result in the reader, and any attached equipment, being dragged out of position, or may result in either the smartcard or the entire reader coming loose suddenly. Any of those scenarios presents a risk of damage to the connected equipment or damage and/or injury to articles and/or persons in the “line of fire” of the tether. Third, the smartcard is not easy to insert into the narrow card receiving slot of a card reader, and may be even more difficult with the retractable reel attached. 
         [0013]    The use of smartcards for computer access may be required in various working environments requiring repeated smartcard connections such that quick, blind by touch or feel, and even single handed application would be desirable. In addition various working environments may also require an both an easy smartcard disconnect and breakaway design so that the smartcard can be quickly removed and in the case where the user inadvertently fails to remove their smartcard it breaks free of the reader in such a fashion as to minimize or eliminate equipment damage or personal injury. 
         [0014]    It has been proposed in US 2010/0265084 Augustinowicz to provide a badge holder including a smartcard reader interface with a cable that can be plugged into the computer, so that the smartcard can be used for computer access without being removed from the holder worn by the user. However, in that case, if the user moves away from the computer without disconnecting the cable, there is a risk that the cable connector or other components will be damaged, and/or computer equipment will be pulled onto the floor. A device commercially available from Stanley Global under the designation SGT-118 is advertised as including an “OSHA compliant safety breakaway lanyard.” However, the breakaway point appears to be in the lanyard that attaches the card holder to the user. Consequently, breaking away of the lanyard would leave the card and reader attached to the computer and detached from the user, presenting the same issues as the conventional arrangement. The breakaway lanyard is meant to prevent catastrophic injury for example, choking to death if the badge holder is caught in machinery or other equipment. It is not meant to break away in office environments where incidental accidents for example, becoming tangled in a phone cord would lead merely to damaged equipment. The Augustinowicz and Stanley Global devices are effectively standard smartcard readers worn around the neck with a USB extension cord. They are not user friendly or easy to connect and only attach and release axially. 
         [0015]    In addition, the Augustinowicz and Stanley Global badge holders are expensive, because they include the sophisticated card reader chip and card detect circuitry in the badge holder. That is in many situations undesirable, because badge holders continually worn by people frequently become lost and damaged. 
         [0016]    There is therefore a need for a system by which the smartcard can be easily connected to and released from the smartcard reader, and which, if the user moves away from the computer without disconnecting properly, separates safely and reliably, leaving the user wearing his badge, leaving all the expensive electronics attached to the computer, and leaving the computer unusable by an intruder, because the computer detects that the smartcard has been removed. 
       SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION 
       [0017]    Various aspects of the present invention make it possible for users to maintain possession of their smartcard. Some embodiments provide an improved disconnect between a smartcard unit and a computer unit. The smartcard unit could be defined as the smartcard itself, the smartcard and the smartcard holder, or the smartcard and the holder with a built in smartcard reader IC. The computer unit would then be the remaining circuitry and components required to make the computer connection. The objective of the design is so that the user can retain possession of their smartcard yet have quick, fast, and safe way of connecting to and releasing from a computer. 
         [0018]    Embodiments of the invention provide methods and apparatus for connecting a smartcard unit worn by a person and computer unit together such that computer can only communicate with the smartcard&#39;s integrated circuit when the user is present. 
         [0019]    Embodiments of the invention provide a smartcard holder and reader where surfaces of the holder and reader will have features to allow them to easily be aligned and connected together in order that the smartcard&#39;s integrated circuit may be read by the computer. In embodiments of the smartcard holder and reader, mechanical or magnetic features of the holder and reader have features to allow them to maintain physical or proximal connection together in order that the smartcard&#39;s integrated circuit may be read by the computer. In embodiments of the smartcard holder and reader, mechanical or magnetic features of the holder and reader allow them to be disconnected with minimal amount of force applied axially, laterally, and/or vertically so as to not cause damage to connected equipment, surrounding articles, or persons. 
         [0020]    Embodiments of the invention provide a card holder and reader system, comprising: a card holder configured to receive at least a portion of a smartcard while permitting direct external communication with the smartcard, the holder having a first alignment device; a card reader removably connectable to the card holder, the card reader configured to communicate directly with the smartcard and having a second alignment device configured to cooperate with the first alignment device to align the smartcard and the card reader for direct communication; and a communication cable connected at one end to the card reader, the communication cable being in electrical communication with the card reader for transmitting data between the smartcard and an external device. 
         [0021]    Embodiments of the invention provide a card holder and reader system, comprising: a card holder configured to receive at least a portion of a smartcard containing an electronic chip while permitting or enabling external electrical access to the electronic chip, the holder having a first alignment device; a card reader removably connectable to the card holder, the card reader operative for communication with the electronic chip on the smartcard and having a second alignment device configured to cooperate with the first alignment device to align the smartcard and the card reader for communication, the card reader further comprising electronic circuitry configured to at least one of encode and decode data transmitted between the smartcard electronic chip and an external device; and a communication cable connected at one end to the card reader, the communication cable being in electrical communication with the electronic circuitry for transmitting data between the smartcard electronic chip and the external device. 
         [0022]    Embodiments of the invention provide an identification system comprising: a smartcard unit comprising at least a smartcard and an attachment enabling the smartcard unit to be worn by a user as a badge, wherein the smartcard is accessible for reading by an external reader; and a reader unit operative to interface communicatively with the smartcard in the smartcard unit and with a computer to enable the computer to communicate with the smartcard; wherein at least one of the smartcard unit and the reader unit has structure to align the reader unit relative to the smartcard in an alignment for communicative interfacing while the smartcard unit is being worn by the user; and wherein at least one of the smartcard unit and the reader unit has a retainer operative to secure the reader unit relative to the smartcard in said alignment so that the smartcard unit is reversibly separable from the reader unit without damage, in response to a force less than is necessary to detach or damage any other part of said system, in a direction other than along a longitudinal axis of the smartcard or of a pair of components being separated. 
         [0023]    Embodiments of the invention provide a card holder and reader system for a smartcard having an electronic chip, the system comprising: a card holder including a body and a replication flap hingedly attached to the body, the body having a slot configured to receive at least a portion of the smartcard containing the electronic chip and first electrical contacts on an inner surface of the slot configured to communicate with the electronic chip, the replication flap having second electrical contacts on an outer surface of thereof, the card holder having electrical wiring connecting the first electrical contacts to the second electrical contacts; wherein the replication flap has a size and shape substantially matching the size and shape of the smartcard to enable the replication flap to be received into a standard smartcard reader. 
         [0024]    Embodiments of the invention provide a card holder and reader system for a smartcard having an electronic chip, the system comprising: a card holder having a slot configured to receive at least a portion of the smartcard containing the electronic chip and having an opening extending between the slot and an outer surface of the card holder to enable direct access to card contacts on the smartcard and a first alignment device; a card reader removably connectable to the card holder, the card reader having electrical contacts configured to communicate with the card contacts on the smartcard and a second alignment device configured to cooperated with the first alignment device to align the electrical contacts on the card reader with the opening on the card holder such that the card reader electrical contacts can contact the card contacts; and a communication cable connected at one end to the card reader, the communication cable being in electrical communication with the electrical contacts of the card reader for transmitting data between the smartcard electronic chip and an external device. 
         [0025]    Embodiments of the invention provide a card holder and reader system for a smartcard having an electronic chip, the system comprising: a card holder configured to receive at least a portion of the smartcard containing the electronic chip, the holder having a first alignment device; a card reader removably connectable to the card holder, the card reader having a contactless sensor configured to communicate with the electronic chip on the smartcard and a second alignment device configured to cooperated with the first alignment device to align the contactless sensor on the card reader for communication with the electronic chip; and a communication cable connected at one end to the card reader, the communication cable being in electrical communication with the contactless sensor for transmitting data between the smartcard electronic chip and an external device. 
         [0026]    Embodiments of the invention provide a card holder and reader system for a smartcard having an electronic chip, the system comprising: a card holder having a slot configured to receive at least a portion of the smartcard containing the electronic chip and having an opening extending between the slot and an outer surface of the card holder to enable direct access to the electronic chip; a card reader adapter removably connectable to the card holder, the card reader adapter having first electrical contacts configured to communicate with the electronic chip on the smartcard, second electrical contacts on an outer surface of the card reader adapter, and electrical wiring connecting the first electrical contacts to the second electrical contacts, the card reader adapter having a first alignment device; a card reader removably connectable to the card reader adapter, the card reader having third electrical contacts configured to communicate with the second electrical contacts on the card reader adapter and a second alignment device configured to cooperated with the first alignment device to align the third electrical contacts on the card reader with the second electrical contacts on the card reader adapter; and a communication cable connected at one end to the card reader, the communication cable being in electrical communication with the third electrical contacts of the card reader for transmitting data between the smartcard electronic chip and an external device. 
         [0027]    The system may further comprise electronic circuitry configured to at least one of encode and decode data transmitted between the smartcard electronic chip and the external device, the electronic circuitry being located in at least one of the card reader, the card holder, and the communication cable. 
         [0028]    The smartcard unit may further comprise a badge holder, and may have an attachment enabling the holder, holding the smartcard, to be worn by the user as the badge. 
         [0029]    The smartcard may have card electrical contacts; the reader may have reader electrical contacts; and the holder may comprise first holder electrical contacts aligned to connect with the card electrical contacts when the smartcard is received in the holder, second holder electrical contacts aligned to connect with the reader electrical contacts when the reader is retained on the holder, and circuitry connecting the first and second holder electrical contacts so as to transparently electrically connect the reader with the card. 
         [0030]    The smartcard may have card electrical contacts; the reader may have reader electrical contacts; and when the card is received in the holder, the card electrical contacts may be exposed by the holder; and the reader may be so configured that the reader electrical contacts connect directly to the card electrical contacts. 
         [0031]    The smartcard may be in the form of a contactless card or fob, the card reader may have a wireless transceiver, and communication between the smartcard and the reader may be established when the smartcard is located in sufficient proximity and correct alignment with the reader transceiver. 
         [0032]    The reader when retained on the holder may emulate at the external device a standard reader for the smart card. 
         [0033]    The reader may comprise a sensor that emulates a card-in-position switch and that when the reader is separated from the smartcard returns to the external device a signal indicating that the card has been removed. 
         [0034]    The mechanical force required to separate the card reader from the card holder may be substantially less than the mechanical force that, if applied to the card reader, would be required to separate the smartcard from the card holder. 
         [0035]    The outer surface of the card holder may further comprise an alignment guide to facilitate alignment of the card reader. 
         [0036]    The reader may comprise a module connectable with the badge holder and a desktop module connected to the external device, and the communication cable connects the module connectable with the badge holder to the desktop module. 
         [0037]    The system retainer may comprise a resiliently biased retainer member wherein the bias exerts a force tending to hold the smartcard or smartcard unit and the reader or reader unit in alignment. The resiliently biased retainer member may then comprise a flap hingedly attached to the card reader or to a holder, the flap being configured to pivot between a first position in which the flap protects electrical contacts on one of the reader, the holder, and the card, and a second position in which the flap allows access to the electrical contacts. 
     
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
         [0038]    The above and other aspects, features, and advantages of the present invention may be more apparent from the following more particular description of embodiments thereof, presented in conjunction with the following drawings. In the drawings: 
           [0039]      FIG. 1  is a schematic view of a card holder and reader with a cable to connect it to a computer. 
           [0040]      FIG. 2  is a schematic view similar to  FIG. 1 , showing a system in which the card is connectable to a computer by a retractable cord. 
           [0041]      FIG. 3  is a schematic view similar to  FIG. 1 , showing a system in which the card is connectable to the computer by a replication tether. 
           [0042]      FIG. 4  is a schematic view similar to  FIG. 1 , showing a card holder with an integrated card reader connectable to a computer by a card holder connector cable. 
           [0043]      FIG. 5  is an enlarged view of a smartcard reader attached magnetically to a smartcard in a holder worn by user with lanyard. 
           [0044]      FIG. 6  is an enlarged view of a smartcard and holder inserted mechanically to a desktop card reader. 
           [0045]      FIG. 7  shows a contactless smartcard attached to an ID reel being held in position mechanically on a USB contactless card reader plugged into a laptop. 
           [0046]      FIG. 8  shows a contactless smartcard held in position magnetically to a contactless card reader built into a laptop. 
           [0047]      FIG. 9  shows a contact smartcard reader and a smartcard in holder with protective flaps to hold the reader in place. 
           [0048]      FIG. 10  shows the device of  FIG. 9  with the reader engaged with the smartcard. 
           [0049]      FIG. 11  shows a contactless smartcard reader and a smartcard in holder with protective flaps that provide RFID and laterally hold the reader in place. 
           [0050]      FIG. 12  shows the device of  FIG. 11  with the reader engaged with the smartcard. 
           [0051]      FIG. 13  shows a contact smartcard reader and a smartcard in holder where the reader has a hinged bottom feature to hold the reader in place. 
           [0052]      FIG. 14  shows the device of  FIG. 13  with the reader engaged with the smartcard. 
           [0053]      FIG. 15  is a perspective view of a heavy duty smartcard and reader system. 
           [0054]      FIG. 16  is a perspective view of a smartcard holder adaptor. 
           [0055]      FIG. 17  is a perspective view of a smartcard in the form of a fob with a slip on adaptor. 
           [0056]      FIG. 18  is a perspective view of a slip-on adaptor for a contact type smartcard. 
           [0057]      FIG. 19  is a section through a desktop smartcard reader with indirect acting spring hinge. 
           [0058]      FIGS. 20 through 24  are schematics showing a person using various smartcard units with various computer units. 
           [0059]      FIG. 25  is a top view of a card reader and holder that includes an opening to enable access to either an antenna or contacts on the smartcard. 
           [0060]      FIG. 26  is a top view showing internal structure of the card holder of  FIG. 25 . 
           [0061]      FIG. 27  is a top view of a card reader for use with the card holder of  FIG. 25 . 
           [0062]      FIG. 28  is a section along the line A-A in  FIG. 26 . 
           [0063]      FIG. 29  is a section along the line B-B in  FIG. 26 . 
           [0064]      FIG. 30  is a section along the lines B-B in  FIG. 26  and C-C in  FIG. 27  showing the card reader being applied to and removed from the card holder. 
           [0065]      FIG. 31  is a view similar to  FIG. 30  showing a modified form of the apparatus. 
           [0066]      FIG. 32  is a view similar to  FIG. 30  showing another modified form of the apparatus. 
           [0067]      FIG. 33  is a view similar to  FIG. 30  showing a contactless card and reader an opening that can be useful for RFID holders. 
           [0068]      FIG. 34  is a perspective view showing a holder with an alignment feature. 
           [0069]      FIG. 35  is a top view of a card reader and card holder with indirect connection to smartcard contacts. 
           [0070]      FIG. 36  is a top view showing internal structure of the card holder of  FIG. 35 . 
           [0071]      FIG. 37  is a top view of a card reader. 
           [0072]      FIG. 38  is a section along the line A-A of  FIG. 36 . 
           [0073]      FIG. 39  is a section along the line B-B of  FIG. 36 . 
           [0074]      FIG. 40  is a section along the line B-B of  FIG. 36  and the line C-C of  FIG. 37 , showing the card reader of  FIG. 37  being applied to and removed from the card holder of  FIG. 36 . 
           [0075]      FIGS. 41 through 43  are views similar to  FIG. 40  showing alternative forms of the device. 
           [0076]      FIG. 44  shows a card holder with a replication flap for use in a standard reader. 
           [0077]      FIG. 45  is a perspective view of a prior art upright desktop card reader. 
           [0078]      FIG. 46  is a perspective view of a prior art horizontal desktop card readers and smartcard. 
           [0079]      FIG. 47  is perspective view an embodiment of an open designed card reader according to an embodiment of the invention, showing a smartcard being axially, laterally, and vertically removable. 
           [0080]      FIG. 48  is a frontal view of the reader of  FIG. 47 , illustrating lateral movement of the smartcard. 
           [0081]      FIG. 49  is side view of the reader of  FIG. 47  illustrating hinged sensors and a smartcard being vertically removable. 
           [0082]      FIG. 50  is perspective view of a magnetic open horizontal desktop card reader, illustrating axial, lateral, and vertical movements of the smartcard. 
           [0083]      FIG. 51  is a side view of the reader of  FIG. 50  illustrating axial and vertical connection movements. 
           [0084]      FIG. 52  is top view of the reader of  FIG. 50  illustrating axial and lateral connection movements. 
           [0085]      FIG. 53  is perspective view of a smartcard or holder attached to an ID reel being connected to the card reader of  FIG. 50 . 
           [0086]      FIG. 54  is perspective view of a smartcard or holder attached to an ID reel being connected to a card reader of  FIG. 47 . 
           [0087]      FIG. 55  is a perspective view of a mechanically connectable card reader being attached to a smartcard holder worn by user with a lanyard. 
           [0088]      FIG. 56  is a top view of the card reader of  FIG. 55  and smartcard, illustrating axial and lateral connection movements. 
           [0089]      FIG. 57  is a side view of the card reader of  FIG. 55  and smartcard/holder in a fully connected state. 
           [0090]      FIG. 58  is a side view card of the reader of  FIG. 55  and smartcard illustrating axial and vertical connection movements. 
           [0091]      FIG. 59  is a perspective view of a magnetically connectable card reader and a smartcard holder on a belt clip. 
           [0092]      FIG. 60  is a top view of the card reader of  FIG. 59  and smartcard illustrating axial and lateral connection movements. 
           [0093]      FIG. 61  is a side view of the card reader of  FIG. 59  and smartcard/holder fully connected. 
           [0094]      FIG. 62  is a side view of the card reader of  FIG. 59  and smartcard/holder illustrating lateral and vertical connection movements. 
           [0095]      FIG. 63  is a section along the line A-A of  FIG. 62 . 
           [0096]      FIG. 64  is a perspective view showing a reader with contact pins and a smartcard or holder with contacts pads. 
           [0097]      FIG. 65  is a perspective view showing antenna ranges of a contactless reader and smartcard. 
           [0098]      FIG. 66  is a sectional view showing a mechanical card reader connected to a holder where the reader has a mechanical hinge to make the contact pins of the reader connect to contact pads of the smartcard or smartcard holder. 
           [0099]      FIG. 67  is a view similar to  FIG. 66  of an alternative embodiment in which the mechanical hinges are also the contact pins of the smartcard holder. 
           [0100]      FIG. 68  is a view similar to  FIG. 66  showing a card reader with a magnet and a smartcard or holder that has a strategically placed ferro-magnetic material. 
           [0101]      FIG. 69  is a view similar to  FIG. 66  showing a mechanical contactless card reader and a smartcard holder with hinged protective flaps. 
           [0102]      FIG. 70  is a view similar to  FIG. 66  showing a magnetic card reader that has magnetic contact pins which connect to ferro-magnetic material contact pads of a smartcard or smartcard holder and is self-aligning. 
           [0103]      FIG. 71  is a view similar to  FIG. 66  showing a contactless smartcard reader with a magnet connected to a smartcard holder with a ferrous-magnetic material. 
           [0104]      FIG. 72  is a view similar to  FIG. 66  showing a mechanical reader connected to a smartcard holder where the hinged action of sliding plates and angular design forces the card reader onto the holder. 
           [0105]      FIG. 73  is a view similar to  FIG. 68  showing a variation of the card reader of  FIG. 68  where the card contacts are sealed behind a conductive material. 
           [0106]      FIG. 74  is a top view of a card reader with a card replication tether. 
           [0107]      FIG. 75  is a section along the lines A-A and B-B of  FIG. 74 . 
           [0108]      FIG. 76  is a schematic top view of a card holder with an undergarment tether. 
           [0109]      FIG. 77  shows a user in protective clothing using the card holder of  FIG. 76  at a computer control station. 
           [0110]      FIG. 78  is a perspective schematic view showing a card holder with connections to a card reader on one side and to a smartcard on the other side. 
           [0111]      FIG. 79  is a cross-sectional view of the embodiment of  FIG. 78  with the smartcard received into the card holder. 
           [0112]      FIG. 80  is a schematic illustrating operation of a reed switch in the card holder of  FIG. 78 . 
           [0113]      FIG. 81  is a schematic illustrating operation of a mechanical limit switch in the card holder of  FIG. 78 . 
           [0114]      FIG. 82  is a schematic showing the card reader pins transposed to surface contacts on a card holder. 
           [0115]      FIG. 83  shows a variation of  FIG. 82  where some or all of the contact circuits can have an interposing relay or contacts. 
           [0116]      FIG. 84  shows a position switch and pushbutton connected in series to a pair of contacts. 
           [0117]      FIG. 85  is a section through a card holder, showing a card actuating a position switch. 
           [0118]      FIG. 86  is a view similar to  FIG. 85 , showing the smartcard removed and the position switch released. 
           [0119]      FIG. 87  and  FIG. 88  are views similar to  FIG. 85  and  FIG. 86 , respectively, illustrating an alternative form of position switch. 
           [0120]      FIG. 89  is a schematic diagram of one embodiment of the electrical connection between a smartcard, a card reader, and a computer. 
           [0121]      FIG. 90  is a side view of mechanical components for one embodiment of the connection scheme shown in  FIG. 89 . 
           [0122]      FIG. 91  is a view similar to  FIG. 89  of an alternative embodiment. 
           [0123]      FIG. 92  is a side view similar to  FIG. 90  for one embodiment of the connection scheme shown in  FIG. 91 . 
           [0124]      FIG. 93  is a schematic top view of one form of contactless interface between smartcard antenna and computer. 
           [0125]      FIG. 94  is a side view showing a mechanical connection for the device shown in  FIG. 93 . 
       
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION 
       [0126]    A better understanding of various features and advantages of the present methods and devices may be obtained by reference to the following detailed description of illustrative embodiments of the invention and accompanying drawings, in which like numerals designate like elements. Although these drawings depict embodiments of the contemplated methods and devices, they should not be construed as foreclosing alternative or equivalent embodiments apparent to those of ordinary skill in the subject art. 
         [0127]    Referring to the drawings, and initially to  FIG. 1 , in one embodiment of a card holder and reader system according to an embodiment of the present invention, a smartcard  905  is inserted in use into a smartcard holder  904  to form a smartcard unit. The holder  904  is provided with a lanyard  927  by which the user can wear the holder  904 , with the smartcard  905 , round his or her neck. The smartcard  905  may then serve as a visible ID badge, and/or may be used as an access card for, for example, unlocking doors with card readers. A smartcard reader  906  is connected to a computer  901  by a communication cable  902  with a computer connector  912  to form a computer unit. To establish communication between smartcard  905  and computer  901 , the computer unit is connected to the smartcard unit by attaching the smartcard reader  906  to the smartcard holder  904 . Embodiments of smartcard readers  906 , holders  904 , and smartcards  905 , and their interactions, will be described below with reference to further figures of the drawings. 
         [0128]    The computer  901  is provided with a CPU, read only memory (ROM), random access memory (RAM), non-volatile storage including fixed and removable disk drives, user interfaces such as a keyboard and monitor, and external communications ports such as data port  949 . All of those features may be conventional and, in the interests of conciseness, are not described herein in more detail. 
         [0129]    Referring now to  FIG. 2 , in an alternative embodiment, a smartcard  954  on an ID reel  927  forms the smartcard unit. A smartcard reader  946  connected to a computer  901  by a communication cable  902  forms the computer unit. To establish communication between the smartcard  954  and the computer  901 , the smartcard unit is connected to the computer unit by attaching or inserting the smartcard  954  to the smartcard reader  946 . The smartcard reader  946  may be as shown in more detail in  FIG. 6 , described below. 
         [0130]    Referring now to  FIG. 3 , in an alternative embodiment, a smartcard  905  inserted into a smartcard holder  956  with a lanyard  927  comprises the smartcard unit. A smartcard reader or tether holder  951  is connected by a communication cable  902  to a replication tether  937 , described in more detail below with reference to  FIG. 74 . The replication tether  937  mimics the physical shape and properties of a smartcard, and is inserted into a conventional desktop smartcard reader  938  connected to a computer  901  by a communication cable  902 . Everything from replication tether holder  951  through computer  901  together forms the computer unit. To establish communication, the computer unit is connected to smartcard unit by attaching the replication tether holder connector  951  to the smartcard holder  956 . 
         [0131]    Referring now to  FIG. 4 , in an alternative embodiment,  FIG. 4 , a smartcard  905  is inserted into a smartcard holder  921  including a smartcard reader IC and provided with a lanyard  927  to form the smartcard unit. A smartcard unit adaptor  952  is connected to a computer  901  by a communication cable  902  and computer connector  912  to form the computer unit. To establish communication, the computer unit is connected to the smartcard unit by attaching the smartcard adaptor  952  to the smartcard holder with reader  921 . 
         [0132]    Referring now to  FIG. 5 , one form of smartcard reader  968  is shown being attached to smartcard holder  956  as shown in  FIG. 1  or  FIG. 3 . The connection method may be that described in more detail below with reference to  FIG. 68 , and the alignment method may be that described in more detail below with reference to  FIGS. 59 through 63 . 
         [0133]    Referring now to  FIG. 6 , in one embodiment of the system shown in  FIG. 2 , a smartcard  954  is connected to smartcard reader  946  using a connection method which may be that of  FIG. 66  and an alignment method which may be that of  FIGS. 47 through 49 . 
         [0134]      FIG. 7 , similarly to  FIGS. 2 and 6 , shows a smartcard on a lanyard  927  being attached to a desktop smartcard reader  903 . However, in the embodiment of  FIG. 7  the card reader  903  is connected directly to the computer  901 , effectively reducing the communication cable length between them to zero. The smartcard  958  is connected to reader  903  using a mechanically hinged spring clamp  960  provided at its tip with a rounded guide  966 , as shown in more detail in  FIG. 69 . The alignment method is non-critical because  FIG. 7  shows a contactless card  958  that only has to held in reasonable proximity to the reader  903  so that the smartcard reader&#39;s antenna can interrogate the smartcard  958 . In this and other embodiments, other forms of hinge and other forms of spring may be used. For example, a “living hinge” may be used, and may be sufficiently stiff also to act as a spring. 
         [0135]      FIG. 8  shows a contactless smartcard  958  in a fob format being connected to smartcard reader  903  that is built into the computer  901 . The connection method may be similar to that of  FIG. 71  and the alignment method is non-critical as the card  958  only has to held in reasonable proximity to the reader  903  so that the smartcard reader&#39;s antenna can interrogate the smartcard. 
         [0136]      FIGS. 9 and 10  show a smartcard reader  906  being attached to smartcard holder  904  in a manner that may be used as an embodiment of  FIG. 1 . The reader  906  may be aligned with the card in the holder  904  by the use of a projection and recess similar to that described below with reference to  FIGS. 59 through 63 . The reader  906  is held in place on the holder  904  by protective flap  916  mounted on spring-loaded hinge  961 , as shown in  FIG. 69 . The protective flaps  916  may also serve to provide RFID shielding for hybrid type cards, preventing the card from being remotely accessed with the flap  916  closed as shown in  FIG. 9 . Rounded holder guides  966  on the flap  916  and reader guides  967  on the reader  906  allow the reader to be pushed into place under the flap  916  without the user needing to lift the flap  916  with his other hand. 
         [0137]      FIGS. 11 and 12  show a smartcard reader  903  being attached to smartcard holder  904  somewhat similarly to the embodiment shown in  FIGS. 9 and 10 . Alignment may be by a projection on reader  903  fitting into a recess in holder  904  as shown in  FIGS. 59 through 63 . In this embodiment the recess is covered by protective flaps  963  that slide laterally and\or axially, allowing the card reader to be slid into place between the two flaps, and held in place by notches on the flaps gripping ribs on the edges of the reader  903 , as shown in  FIG. 72 . The shape of the flaps and the card reader serve as both connection guides and holders. The design of flap hinges  960  and  963  allows for multidirectional release. 
         [0138]      FIGS. 13 and 14  show a smartcard reader  906  being attached to smartcard holder  904  using the connection method of  FIG. 67 , in which a tab on reader  906  bearing contact sensors  910  slides into a slot containing contact pins  925  in the holder  904 , while the main body of reader  904  overlies a flat surface of holder  904 . The tab may be mounted on spring-loaded hinges  960  to ensure a sufficient contact pressure and frictional grip between the reader  906  and the holder  904 . The opening to the holder contacts  925  is shape such to allow holder&#39;s contacts to be slide into place semi laterally yet when fully inserted align the contacts properly for communication purposes. Correct alignment method is that detailed in  FIG. 55  through  FIG. 58 . The opening to the holder contacts  925  is shaped so as to allow the tab on the reader  906  to be slid into place semi laterally, and to be removed obliquely or semi laterally, yet when fully inserted to align the contacts properly for communication purposes. Correct alignment may be ensured by the method described in more detail below with reference to  FIGS. 55 through 58 . 
         [0139]      FIG. 15  shows a smartcard reader  968  attached to smartcard  956  as shown in  FIG. 1 . Electrical connection is provided by external contacts  910 ,  925  on the reader  968  and the holder  956 , respectively. Alignment is provided by a sloped projection and recess  966 ,  967 , and by projection  935  of reader  968  fitting into recess  934  on holder  956 , as discussed below with reference to  FIGS. 55 to 58 . The reader may be held onto the holder magnetically, as discussed below with reference to  FIG. 68 . This embodiment shows that a smartcard such at that disclosed by ISO 7816 can be modified to allow a smart card reader to be connected and released quite easily. 
         [0140]      FIG. 16  shows a smartcard holder  974 , which may be, for example, a holder  904 ,  906 , or  956 , being outfitted with an adaptor  971  which will allow a holder connector  952  to be connected. Any two different connections may be formed between holder  974  and adaptor  971 , and between adaptor  971  and connector  952 . As shown in  FIG. 16 , the connection method between the adaptor  971  and holder connector  952  is that of  FIG. 70 , using card reader guide  967 , and data pins  912 , and the alignment method via the connector is that detailed in  FIG. 59  through  FIG. 63 . Sensors  910  on adaptor  971  engage card contacts  908  through an aperture in holder  974 . The adaptor  971  may or may not have a smartcard reader IC  924  built in, in the case where the IC is not in the adaptor, a different computer unit would be required, for example  968 . 
         [0141]      FIG. 17  shows a smartcard holder  958  being outfitted with an adaptor which will allow a smartcard reader  903  to be connected. The connection method between the adaptor and holder connector is that of  FIG. 71  and the alignment method is not critical. 
         [0142]      FIG. 18  shows a combination of a slip card holder  953  and a holder with a smartcard reader IC  921  which allows for a holder connector  952  to be connected. The connection and alignment method between the card holder  953 ,  921  and a smartcard  905  within the card holder  953  is that of  FIG. 66 . The clamp hinge  961  grips the card  905  with greater force and is not meant to be easily disconnected. The connection and alignment method between the computer connector  952  and the card holder  953 ,  921  is that of  FIG. 70 . 
         [0143]      FIG. 19  shows an example of desktop smartcard reader  946  (see  FIG. 2 ) with a spring type hinge  960  acting indirectly to hold the smartcard  905  in the smartcard reader. The mechanism is designed with an “over center” action such that when the flap  915  holding the smartcard against the contacts is to either side of a 45 degree angle the flap either is pushed more open to release the smartcard, or pushed more closed thus holding the smartcard firmly in the card reader. The feature of pushing the flap more open make it easier for the user to align and simply place their card on the open flap and push forward until the spring is to the other side of the 45° position, and snaps shut to clamp the smartcard in place. 
         [0144]      FIG. 20  shows a user with their smartcard  905  held in the card holder  904  worn on lanyard  927 , tethered to a computer  901  with a computer unit  906  and  902 . 
         [0145]      FIG. 21  shows a user with their smartcard  905  held in the card holder  904  worn on lanyard  927 , interacting wirelessly, in a contactless manner, with an access point card reader  965 . 
         [0146]      FIG. 22  shows a user with their smartcard  905  held in the card holder  956  worn on a belt clip  927 , tethered to a computer  901  with a computer unit  906  and  902 . 
         [0147]      FIG. 23  shows user at an industrial control panel computer  901  and card reader  946 . The user&#39;s smartcard  905  is in a holder  956  attached to the user by a retractable cord. The user is able to log onto computer  901  by inserting the smartcard  905  in reader  946 , without removing smartcard  905  from holder  956 , or detaching holder  956  from the user. 
         [0148]      FIG. 24 . shows the user at a desk with computer  901  and contactless desktop card reader  903 . The user connects the smartcard  958  to the computer, without needing to detach retractable cord  927 . 
         [0149]      FIG. 25  through  FIG. 34  illustrate various forms of a card holder  904  that is distinguished by an opening that allows either direct contact to the smartcard&#39;s contact pads  908  or an opening that allows necessary access to the interrogation zone of an antenna  957  of a contactless smartcard. The card holder  904  may be used with various card reader types, card types, and connection and alignment methods. 
         [0150]    Referring initially to  FIGS. 25 through 29 , certain basic features of smartcard holder  904  and smartcard reader  903 ,  906 ,  968  are illustrated. A card opening features alignment guides  934  (see  FIG. 34 ) so as to assist aligning the reader contacts  910  with the smartcard contacts  908  and also to allow the card reader  903 ,  906 ,  968  to be removed easily by sliding. The system for both contact and contactless cards  905  includes a card holder  904 , an appropriate card reader  906 ,  968 ,  903 , and a communication cable  902 , and various computer connectors  926 ,  931 ,  932 . The card holder  904  has a slot configured to receive at least a portion of the smartcard  905  and the card opening extending between the slot and an outer surface of the card holder to enable either direct or indirect access to the smartcard&#39;s integrated circuit chip  964  through either the smartcard&#39;s contacts  908  or smartcard&#39;s antenna  957  and the first alignment device  934 . The card reader  903 ,  906 ,  968  is removably connectable to the card holder  904 , the card reader  906 ,  968  having electrical contacts  908  configured to communicate with the smartcard&#39;s IC through contact pads  908  and a second alignment device  935  configured to cooperate with the first alignment device  934  to align the electrical contacts on the card reader with the opening on the card holder such that the electrical contacts can contact the electronic chip. The communication cable  902  is connected at one end to the card reader and is in electrical communication with the electrical contacts  910  of the card reader for transmitting data between the smartcard IC  964  and a computer  901 . Alternatively the same alignment removably connectable method will apply to contactless smart card where the card reader  903  is aligned in proximity with the smartcard&#39;s antenna  957 . 
         [0151]    The system may include an indicator light  955  on at least one of the card holder and the card reader to indicate that the card reader contacts are in communication with the smartcard&#39;s electronic chip. 
         [0152]    The open card holder system allows for existing card reader connectors  910  which adhere to ISO 7816 contact pad dimensions to be used. 
         [0153]    Referring now to  FIG. 30 , in one variation, the card holder  904  includes magnetically attractable component  909  and the smartcard reader  906  or holder connector  912  includes a magnet  911 , or vice versa. The bevel edges  934  of the opening, see  FIG. 34 , assist in aligning the card reader contacts  910  to with the smartcard contact pads  908  in both the lateral and axial direction. 
         [0154]    In another variation,  FIG. 31 , the card reader and the card holder may be mechanically attached to each other with a hinge mechanism  960  on the carder reader. The mechanism may include one or more hinge type devices  960  and/or a spring loaded clip or flap  915 , working separately or in combination. Alternatively, the mechanism may include protrusion and detent  934  and  935  on the card holder and on the card reader, so that the detent receives the protrusion when the card holder is fully received into the card reader. Additionally, it is understood that a similar mechanical attachment mechanism may be used in conjunction with any of the embodiments described herein.  FIG. 31  also shows a computer connector  932  which allows the connection to computer communication port and provides an additional communication port to leaving a spare port. Connector  932  has a USB male plug  950  to insert into a USB female socket in computer  901 , a USB splitter  942  that supports both cable  902  and an additional USB female socket on the exposed end of connector  932 . 
         [0155]    In another variation, shown in  FIG. 32 , the card holder  904  has protective flaps  916  with spring hinges  960  that provide the necessary force to hold the card reader  968  to the card holder  904  such that the reader contacts  910  connect to the smartcard contacts  908 . The flaps  916  can also: assist in guiding and aligning the card reader  968  on the card holder; and, when closed, provide smartcard contact pads  908  with protection from debris and damage.  FIG. 32  also shows that the smartcard reader IC  924  can alternatively be located in the computer connector  931  at the end of communications cable  902  nearer to computer  901 , instead of on the card holder connector end  968 . This may result in a different data communication protocol being used in cable  902 , and may require a physically different cable. Computer connector  931  may instead, or in addition, be a connector  932  that has an auxiliary data connector such as an additional USB port.  FIG. 32  also shows that the card holder connector end  968  may also feature a position switch, which is actuated by actuator  918  when the reader is connected to the card holder. This switch can be used for the “card in position” input, sometimes referred to as “PRESN”, of a standard smartcard reader IC, or for any similar system that verifies the physical presence of a smartcard in the reader. The flaps  960  are configured to pivot between a first position (see  FIG. 9 ) in which the flaps protect the smartcard contacts  908  or antenna  957  and a second position (see  FIGS. 10 and 32 ) in which the flaps allow physical access to the smartcard contacts or wireless access to the smartcard antenna  957 . 
         [0156]    As shown in  FIG. 33 , which is a further variation of  FIG. 32 , for a contactless card reader  903  the position flaps hold the card reader  903  in place with the reader&#39;s antenna  969  in the interrogation zone of the smartcard&#39;s antenna  957 . The effective ranges of the two antennae can then be very short, allowing very low transmission power. When closed, the protective flaps  916  can provide RFID protection when the card reader  903  is not connected, preventing unauthorized wireless access to card  905 . The protective flaps  916  can also be easily be manipulated by the user to expose the smartcard antenna  957  when being used for an area access reader  965 , see  FIG. 21 . 
         [0157]      FIG. 34  shows a perspective view of an example of the opening in card holder  904  for access to card contacts  908 . In this example, the “alignment” feature  934  is formed by smoothly beveled edges of the opening, so that the mating card reader or holder connector can be slipped into and out of place even with a motion that is more nearly parallel to the surface of the holder  904  than to the perpendicular axis. 
         [0158]    As already discussed, any of the holder  904  or  956 , the reader  968 , and the connector  931  may contain a card reader chip  924  or other electronic circuitry configured to convert power and data signals between the protocol used by the smart card  905  and the USB protocol used at plug  950 , or otherwise to at least one of encode and decode data transmitted between the smartcard electronic chip and the external device, the electronic circuitry being located in at least one of the card reader, the card holder, and the communication cable. 
         [0159]    If the reader IC is in holder  904 , then the holder  904  is in a sense a reader too, and the detachable reader  903 ,  906 ,  968  may then be a dumber device. However, the holder  904  is still also a card holder design so the user can maintain possession of the smart card. 
         [0160]      FIGS. 35 through 44  illustrate variations of a card holder  956  used with various card reader types, and contact card type  905 , and connection and alignment methods. The card holder  956  is distinguished by having a set of internal contacts  919  (see  FIGS. 39 to 43 ) that connect to a smartcard&#39;s contacts  908  when the card is fully inserted. The internal contacts  919  are connected to a set of external contacts  925  that are accessible from the outside of the card holder&#39;s holding space, which is typically a slot to receive a flat card. In other words, the holder  956  has second electrical contacts  919  on an inner surface of the slot configured to communicate with the smartcard&#39;s contacts  908  and therefore with the smartcard&#39;s IC, third electrical contacts  925  on an outer surface of the card holder, and electrical wiring connecting the second electrical contacts to the third electrical contacts. When the card reader is aligned with the card holder, the first electrical contacts of the card reader communicate with the third electrical contacts of the card holder. Those features allow for smartcard readers  968 ,  906 , etc., or card holder connectors  951 ,  952 , etc. to have various electrical connection designs or types, for example, as shown in  FIG. 66 ,  FIG. 67 , and  FIG. 70 .  FIGS. 35 through 39  show basic features of smartcard holder  956  and an associated smartcard reader  968 . The basic card holder  956  feature is a straight through electrical connection from internal contacts  919  to the external contacts  925 , see  FIG. 82 . This feature can have an additional capability to provide security by activating the “PRESN” contact on the smartcard reader&#39;s IC  924 . An internal switch  917  to detect when a card is inserted can be communicated to the card reader either by providing a status contacts or relay contacts  922 , see  FIGS. 87 and 88 , or by actuating an actuator  918 , see  FIGS. 85 and 86 . Alternatively a position switch may be a reed type switch and located in the card reader  968  and when the reader is in position on the holder and magnetic field is such that the switch is actuated, see  FIG. 40 . 
         [0161]    In other words, the card holder has a slot configured to receive at least a portion of the smartcard containing the electronic chip, second electrical contacts on an inner surface of the slot configured to communicate with the electronic chip, third electrical contacts on an outer surface of the card holder, and electrical wiring connecting the third electrical contacts to the second electrical contacts, the holder further having a first alignment device. The card reader is removably connectable to the card holder and has first electrical contacts configured to communicate with the third electrical contacts on the card holder and a second alignment device configured to cooperate with the first alignment device on the card holder to align the first and third electrical contacts. The communication cable is connected at one end to the card reader and is in electrical communication with the electrical contacts of the card reader for transmitting data between the smartcard electronic chip and an external device. 
         [0162]    The card holder may further include a proximity switch, which in embodiments shown in the drawings is a normally open proximity switch, located in the electrical wiring between the second and third electrical contacts, and the card reader further comprising a proximity switch actuator, such that when the first and third electrical contacts are aligned, the proximity switch actuator causes the proximity switch to change state to complete (or break) the connection between the second and third electrical contacts. In one variation, the proximity switch includes a reed switch and the proximity switch actuator includes a magnet. In another variation, the proximity switch includes a mechanical limit switch and the proximity switch actuator includes a pin configured to actuate the mechanical limit switch. The card reader may further include a slot for receiving at least a portion of the card holder including the third electrical contacts. 
         [0163]    In one variation, the card holder further includes a normally open proximity switch located in the electrical wiring between the first and second electrical contacts, and the card reader further includes a proximity switch actuator, such that when the first and third electrical contacts are aligned, the proximity switch actuator causes the proximity switch to close to complete the connection between the first and second electrical contacts. The proximity switch may include a reed switch and the proximity switch actuator comprises a magnet. Alternatively, the proximity switch may include a mechanical limit switch and the proximity switch actuator comprises a pin configured to actuate the mechanical limit switch. Additionally the card holder  956  will feature alignment guides  934  so as to assist aligning the reader contacts  910  with the holder outer contacts  925  and the holder inner contacts  919  with the smartcard contacts  908  and also to allow either the card  905  or the card reader  968 , as the case may be, to be removed easily by sliding it. 
         [0164]    The system may further include a pushbutton switch configured to enable or disable communication between the smartcard  905  and the external device  901 . Additionally, the system may further include electronic circuitry configured to at least one of encode and decode data transmitted between the smartcard electronic chip and the external device. The electronic circuitry is located in at least one of the card holder, the card reader, and the communication cable. 
         [0165]      FIG. 40  through  FIG. 44  shows various cross sectional views card reader or holder connector connections to card holder  968  as shown in  FIG. 35 . 
         [0166]    In one variation,  FIG. 40 , one of the first and second alignment devices  934 ,  966  on the card holder  956  includes magnetically attractable component  909  and the other of the first and second alignment devices  935 ,  967  on the smartcard reader  968  or holder connector  912  includes a magnet  911 , or vice versa. Either the card reader  968  or the card holder  956  may have an opening or recess with bevel edges, see  FIGS. 59 through 63 , that assist in aligning the card reader contacts  910  with the card holder contacts  925  in both the lateral and axial direction. This variation of the card reader  956  has a reed type position switch  917  arranged so that when the reader  968  is placed in contact with the holder  956  the switch activates a contact  922  that can be used to control the “card in position” input PRESN on the smartcard reader IC  924 . 
         [0167]    In another variation,  FIG. 41 , the card in position switch  917  is located internally of the card holding space with contacts  922  on the surface of the card holder  956  and the reader  968 . When card reader  968  is connected to card holder  956  the holder&#39;s contacts  922  contact the reader&#39;s contacts  922  to communication the status of the card  905  in the holder to the smartcard reader IC  924 . Thus, the PRESN input of the smartcard reader IC  924  is set to TRUE only when there is a card  905  correctly inserted into card holder  956 , and card reader  968  is correctly positioned on card holder  956 . The computer connector  933  houses the smartcard reader IC  924  and also has second communication through USB splitter  942  to allow other data access to the computer when the reader is attached. 
         [0168]    In a further variation,  FIG. 42 , the card in position switch  917  is located internally of the card holding space with contacts  922  on the surface of the card holder. When card reader  968  is connected to card holder  956  the holder&#39;s contacts  922  contact the reader&#39;s contacts  922  which are in turn connected to card reader actuator  918  which in wired in series to communicate the status of the card  905  in the holder  956  and the status of the card reader  968  relative to the holder  956  to the smartcard reader IC  924 . The card reader  968  is connected to the card holder  956  by a flap  915  with sprung hinges  961 . 
         [0169]    In one variation,  FIG. 43 , the card holder external contacts  925  can be oriented in a format other than standard smartcard contact pad arrangement, in this case on the bottom of the card holder. The card reader contacts  910  and card holder external contacts  925  could, for example, be as shown in  FIG. 67  or  FIG. 70 . Another addition to the card holder may be a “replication flap”  937 , which is a member of the same shape and size as one end of a standard smartcard, and having a set of external contacts  925  mimicking the contacts on a standard smartcard, so that it may be used in a standard card reader  938 . In  FIG. 43 , the replication flap  937  is provided with a spring-loaded hinge  960 , so that it folds flat against the underside of card holder  956  when not in use. The electrical contacts  925  on the replication flap  937  are wired within the card holder  956  to the internal contacts  919  in parallel with any other set of holder external contacts  925 .  FIG. 44  shows a perspective view of the replication flap  937  of  FIG. 43  being inserted into a card reader  938 . 
         [0170]      FIGS. 45 and 46  show two standard commercially available desktop style smartcard readers.  FIG. 45  shows a smartcard  905  being inserted into a vertical style smartcard reader  938 . The card reader  938  has a holding space for the smartcard  905  that only allows for the smartcard  905  to be inserted and removed vertically, along its long axis. Furthermore the standard card reader  938  is designed to accept only smartcards that meet the ISO 7816/CR 80 standard, basically a card the shape and size of a standard credit card. If the user carries the smart card in a holder, then it must be removed from the holder to be inserted into the card reader  938 . If the user has the smart card attached to an ID reel  927 , then excessive lateral or fore-and-aft forces on the card can result in damage.  FIG. 46  shows a conventional horizontal card reader equivalent to the vertical card reader  938  shown in  FIG. 45 . With the reader shown in  FIG. 46 , the card must be inserted and removed horizontally, in one specific direction, as shown by the arrow. If a force is applied, for example, by the user&#39;s lanyard, in a direction having a vertical component, or in any horizontal direction other than the one shown, then damage can result. 
         [0171]      FIG. 47  shows a smartcard  905  being inserted into a vertical style smartcard reader  946  as shown in  FIG. 2 . The smartcard reader  946  has a flexible holding space which allows for the smartcard  905  to be inserted and removed with movement in any or all three axes, as shown by the arrows. At least the front wall of the slot is mounted on a hinge  960 , allowing the walls to spread apart to accommodate fore-and-aft movement. The front wall or face of the card reader  946  is replaced by a protective flap  916  which operates on a spring type hinge  960 . The protective flap  916  provides the necessary pressure to apply the smartcard contacts  908  against the card reader contacts  910  for communicative connection and yet opens sufficiently to allow the smartcard to be inserted and removed in the vertical direction. 
         [0172]    The side walls of the slot in card reader  938 , which align the smartcard contacts  908  with the reader contacts  910  in the lateral direction, are omitted and replaced with alignment guides  935 .  FIG. 48  shows the smartcard card  905  aligned in the card reader by the guides  935  and lateral movement into and out of the card reader  946 . The alignment guides  935  align the card when the card is fully inserted, but allow it to be tipped sideways or removed diagonally up and sideways. 
         [0173]    The base of the card reader  946  aligns the smartcard contacts  908  with the card reader contacts  910  in the axial direction just as is the case with the standard card reader  938 . Alternatively the alignment guides  935  can provide alignment in the axial direction as well. The outside edges of the smartcard card  905  effectively are the second alignment guides  934  that cooperate with alignment guides  935 . However, other surface features may be added if it is not necessary for card  905  to comply strictly with a conventional credit card shape. 
         [0174]      FIG. 49  shows smartcard  905  inserted in the card reader  946  and the movement of the protective flap  916 . The spring type hinge  960  can have various features which allow the protective flap to remain in the open position when the smartcard  905  is removed from the card reader  946  but when the smartcard  905  is inserted the protective flap  916  provides closing pressure necessary to make communicative contact between smartcard contacts  908  and card reader contacts  910 . 
         [0175]      FIG. 50  shows a smartcard  954  being inserted into a horizontal style smartcard reader  946 . The smartcard reader  946  has a magnetic holding space which allows for the smartcard  954  to be inserted and removed in all three axes. The side wall supports of the card reader  938  which align the smartcard contacts  908  with the reader contacts  910  in the lateral direction are replaced with alignment guides  935 . As is best shown in  FIG. 52 , the alignment guides  935  are slightly closer together than the width of the card  954 . Axial positioning of the smartcard  954  is thus assured by the rounded corners of the card seating on the alignment guides  935 . Alternatively, a central end-stop can be provided on the base of reader  946 . The outside edges of the smartcard card  905  effectively are the second alignment guides  934 , however other surface features may be added. As shown in  FIG. 50 , a magnet  911  in the reader  946  and a ferromagnetic element  910  in the smartcard  954  may also be provided. The attraction between the magnetic elements  910 ,  911  both provides the necessary pressure to hold the card  954  in contact with the reader  946 , and maintain electrical contact between the smartcard contacts  908  and the card reader contacts  910  for communicative connection, and assists in aligning the smartcard correctly. 
         [0176]      FIG. 51  shows the smartcard card  954  aligned in the card reader by the guides  935  and illustrates vertical and rotational movement into and out of the card reader  946 . 
         [0177]      FIG. 52  shows the smartcard card  954  aligned in the card reader by the guides  935  and illustrates lateral movement and rotation into and out of the card reader  946 . The card reader  946  can be design to accept various types or even multiple types of smartcards and holders. 
         [0178]      FIGS. 53 and 54  show perspective views of the various smartcards and smartcard with holders connected to an ID reel  927  being attached to card readers  946  shown in  FIG. 47  and  FIG. 50 . 
         [0179]      FIG. 55  is a perspective view of a smartcard reader  906  being connected to or removed from a smartcard holder  954  worn on a lanyard  927 . 
         [0180]      FIG. 56  illustrates lateral movement of a smartcard reader  906  in relation to the smartcard holder  954 . As, in  FIG. 47 , the smartcard reader  906  has no side walls for lateral alignment of the smartcard contacts  908  (or holder contacts  925 ) with the card reader contacts  910 . The smartcard holder has an alignment guide  935  which mates with the card holder alignment guide  934 , which when connected align the smartcard contacts  908  with the card reader contacts  910  in both the lateral and axial direction, while allowing insertion or removal in an oblique direction or with rotation. 
         [0181]      FIG. 57  shows a side view of the smartcard reader  906  connected to the smartcard holder  954 . A protective flap  916  and spring type hinge  960  apply sufficient pressure to the bottom of the card holder  954  so that the smartcard contacts  908  and smartcard reader contacts  910  are in communicative contact and sufficient pressure to maintain connection to the holder during normal use, while allowing the reader  906  to freely break away as required. 
         [0182]      FIG. 58  shows a side view of the smartcard reader  906  and smartcard holder  954  being connected or removed in the axial and vertical direction. The smartcard reader  906  and smartcard holder  954  have second alignment features  967  and  966 . The second alignment features have smooth surfaces and rounded or angled designs such that when they are in proper contact the smartcard reader can pushed or slipped onto the smartcard holder. 
         [0183]      FIG. 59  is a perspective view of a smartcard reader  968  being connected to or removed from a smartcard holder  956  worn on a belt clip  927 . 
         [0184]      FIG. 60  illustrates lateral movement of a smartcard reader  968  in relation to the smartcard holder  956 . As in  FIG. 52 , the smartcard reader  968  has no side walls for lateral alignment of the smartcard holder contacts  925  with the card reader contacts  910 . The smartcard holder has an alignment guide  935  which mates with an alignment guide  934  on the card holder, which when connected align the smartcard holder contacts  925  with the card reader contacts  910  in both the lateral and axial direction. 
         [0185]      FIG. 61  shows a side view of the smartcard reader  968  of  FIG. 60  connected to the smartcard holder  956 . The card reader  968  has a magnetic device  911  that, when in proximity to a magnetic attractive device  909  on the card holder  956 , applies sufficient pressure to the bottom of the card reader  956  so that the smartcard holder contacts  925  and smartcard reader contacts  910  are in communicative contact, and sufficient pressure to maintain connection to the holder during normal use, but allows them to freely break away as required. 
         [0186]      FIG. 62  shows a side view of the smartcard reader  968  and smartcard holder  956  being connected or removed in the axial and vertical direction.  FIG. 63  shows an end view, in section along line A-A of  FIG. 62 , showing the smartcard reader  968  and smartcard holder  956  being connected or removed in the lateral and vertical direction with possible rotation, as illustrated by the arrows. The smartcard reader  968  and smartcard holder  956  alignment features  934  and  935  have smooth surface and angled design is such that the smartcard reader can pushed or slipped onto or off of the smartcard holder and yet also align the contacts. 
         [0187]      FIGS. 64 and 65  show examples of the interface between smartcard unit and computer unit connectivity.  FIG. 64  shows a smartcard  905  with contact pads and a smartcard reader  906 ,  968 , etc., with contact sensors  910  being connected so that a computer  901  can communicate with smartcard IC  964 . The smartcard contacts  908  and the smartcard reader contacts  910  must be aligned properly and make contact with the correct corresponding sensor.  FIG. 65  shows a contactless smartcard  958  and a smartcard reader  903  being connected so that a computer  901  can communicate with the smartcard IC  964 . The smartcard  958  must be held in an appropriate orientation and distance from the smartcard reader  903  so that the reader&#39;s antenna  969  can “interrogate” the smartcard&#39;s antenna  957  and thereby communicate with the smartcard IC  964 . 
         [0188]      FIG. 66  through  FIG. 73  show, in similar cross-sectional views, various methods of interface connectivity between the smartcard unit and the computer unit. 
         [0189]      FIG. 66  shows a smartcard reader  906  connecting to smartcard holder  956  with a smartcard  905 , the smartcard contacts  908  are replicated on the surface of the card by transfer connections from card holder internal sensors  919  to the card holder external contact pads  925 . The smartcard reader  906  contacts  910  then connect to the card holder external contacts  925  to communicate with the smartcard. In order to hold the card reader  906  to the card holder  956  with sufficient force to make an electrical connection as well as maintain the card reader in position during normal use, the spring type hinge  960  applies a clamping pressure to protective flap  916 , which results in the smartcard reader contacts  910  sandwiching the card holder  956 . 
         [0190]      FIG. 67  shows the a variation of  FIG. 66  where the card holder external contacts  925  and the flap  916  (which in this case does not need to be hinged or sprung) are a combination unit and seat in a cavity on the card holder  956 . When the card reader  906  is connected, the smartcard holder contacts  925  which are also provided with hinge type or other springs, apply sufficient pressure to the card reader contacts  910  to press the backside of the contacts against the wall of the card holder cavity and thus providing a clamping pressure to the card reader to maintain contact. 
         [0191]      FIG. 68  shows a variation of  FIG. 66 , in which the sufficient force to make an electrical connection as well as maintain the card reader in position during normal use is achieved by the magnetic attraction between a magnet or other magnetic device  911  located in the card reader  906  and a ferromagnetic element or other magnetic attractive device  909  located in the card holder  956 . The card holder  956  alignment guides  934 , in the form of a recess with beveled walls, and the card reader  906  alignment guides  935 , in the form of a prominence with beveled sides, properly position the card reader contacts  910  with the card holder contacts  925  for communication. 
         [0192]      FIG. 69  shows a smartcard reader  903  connecting to smartcard holder  904  with a non-contact smartcard  905 . The smartcard reader antenna  969  is held in a correct distance and orientation to be in the interrogation zone of the smartcard antenna  957 . The card holder  904  has protective flaps  916  with spring type hinges  960 . Springs  960  and protective flaps  916  apply sufficient pressure to the card reader  903  to hold in proper position for communicative connection to the smartcard and to hold it in place during normal use. The protective flaps can also be constructed of a RFID blocking material such that the smartcard cannot be read when the protective flap are lying flat on the card holder, as shown in  FIG. 9 . 
         [0193]      FIG. 70  shows a variation of  FIG. 68 , in which the card reader  906  has a cup-shaped metal magnet  911  that is the magnetic device  911 , the card reader contact  910 , and the card reader alignment device  934 . The card holder  956  has a matching ferromagnetic metal dome that is the magnetic attractive device  909 , the card holder external contact  925 , and the card holder alignment device  935 . The card reader and card holder contacts both align and provide sufficient force to make an electrical connection as well as maintain the card reader in position during normal use. 
         [0194]      FIG. 71  is a variation of  FIG. 68  and  FIG. 69 , in which the card reader  903  magnetic device  911  and the card holder  956  magnetically attractive device  909  hold the reader  903  and the smartcard  905  together with sufficient force for the card reader to communicate with the smartcard  905 . Separate beveled card reader alignment guides  935  and card holder alignment guides  934  keep the card reader  903  in position on the card holder  904  such that the card reader antenna  969  can communicate with the smartcard antenna  957 . 
         [0195]      FIG. 72  is a variation of  FIG. 66  and  FIG. 69  where the card holder  956  has a pair of indirectly sprung holders  962  that have grooves gripping ridges on the sides of the card reader  906 . As shown in  FIG. 72 , each holder  962  may be in upper and lower pieces, with the upper piece separately movable. As shown in  FIGS. 11 and 12 , the two holders  962  may be a pair of shutters that close to protect underlying contact pads or to shield an RFID antenna when the card reader  906  is not in position. The springs  961  driving the holders  962  apply an indirect sufficient force to make an electrical connection as well as maintain the card reader in position during normal use. 
         [0196]      FIG. 73  shows a version of  FIG. 68  in which the spring contacts  910  on the reader are covered with a flexible membrane that is conductive or has conductive patches. That enables the card reader to have an entirely smooth exterior, where all surfaces can be kept clean for use in sterile or other clean environments. 
         [0197]      FIG. 74  shows a card reader sub-assembly  973  comprising a replication card  937  having contacts and a size and shape substantially matching the contacts and the size and shape of a conventional smartcard, to enable it to be received into a standard smartcard reader  938 . The replication card  937  is connected to a card holder connector  951  by a communication cable  902 . The card holder connector  951  has contacts  910  to make communicative contact with the card holder external contacts  925  or card contacts  908 . When the replication card  937  is inserted into a card reader  938  and the card holder connector  951  is connected to a card holder  956  with a smartcard  905 , the contacts on replication card  937  replicate the contacts on the smartcard  905  just as if the smartcard  905  were inserted in the reader  938 .  FIG. 75  shows a side view in section along the lines A-A and B-B in  FIG. 74 . 
         [0198]      FIG. 76  shows a card reader sub-assembly  930  that is a variation of  FIG. 74  where the replication card  937  is replaced with a tether connector  929  that can be connected to a smartcard reader  906 . The device  930  enables a user to provide a connection point for a smartcard reader  906  when, for example, the user is wearing protective clothing that does not allow for their smartcard holder to be exposed. As shown in  FIG. 77 , the user wearing a protective suit has the smart card  905  in its holder  904  connected to the connector  951  of the device  930 , all inside the protective suit. Only the connection cable  902  is passed through the protective suit to the tether connector  929  on the outside. The tether connector  929  can then be connected to a smartcard reader  906  attached to computer  901 , to establish communication between the computer  901  and the smartcard  905  without exposing the smartcard. 
         [0199]      FIG. 78  shows a perspective detail view of a card holder  956  that has an internal set of contacts  919  which connect to the smartcard contacts  908  on smartcard  905  and transfer those signals to a set of external contacts  925  on the external surface of the holder  956  where they can be read by a card reader  906 , etc.  FIG. 78  also shows various complementary optional features. A proximity or limit switch  917  can be located in the card receiving space of the card holder  956  that actuates when the smartcard  905  is properly inserted into the holder  956 . In this case the smartcard is acting as the limit switch actuator  918 . The limit switch can be connected to a set of contacts  922  which can be used to initiate, permit, facilitate, or break communication between the smartcard IC and the smartcard reader IC by various methods depending on various criteria, most notably the computer  901  operating system and software. If the system configuration is such that it can use the smartcard reader IC PRESN signal or similar, then a simple pair of contacts  922  would be used. If the system configuration continuously polls the smartcard contacts  908 , then multiple sets relay of contacts  922  may be desired. A pushbutton may be inserted into the circuit to “manually” create a signal indicating the card has been removed, which in many systems automatically clears and resets the smartcard reader IC buffer.  FIG. 79  shows a sectional side view of the card holder  956  shown in  FIG. 78 . 
         [0200]      FIG. 80  shows schematically a physical actuator  918  that when moved into position closes the switch  917  contact.  FIG. 81  shows a variation of  FIG. 80  where the switch  917  is a reed type switch and is actuated by a magnetic field when a magnetic device  911  moves into a correct position. 
         [0201]      FIG. 82  shows an example of the circuit diagram between card holder internal contacts  919  and the card holder external contacts  925  where the connection is a simple straight-through or point to point connection between each individual contact  919  and a matching contact  925 .  FIG. 83  shows the circuit of  FIG. 1  with a set of contacts of a relay between the contacts  919  and  925 . Some or all of the circuit connections between  919  and  925  are open, not communicating, when the card-in-position switch  917  is not closed. 
         [0202]      FIG. 84  shows a simple circuit with contacts  922  connected when the limit switch  917  is closed. Optionally, a normally closed contact pushbutton  944  may be connected in series to open the contacts  922  manually or on demand. The switches  917  and  944  may be reversed to form a normally closed circuit. The closing, or opening, of the contacts  922  can be used to drive a card-in-position input of a card reader IC  924 . 
         [0203]      FIGS. 85 and 86  show the operation of a position switch  917  located on the card reader  906 . When the smartcard  905  is properly fully inserted in the card holder  956  card holding space, as shown in  FIG. 85 , the smartcard forces the actuator  918  up, extending beyond or above the surface of the card holder  956 . When the smartcard reader  906  is also properly connected, so that contacts  910  and  925  are aligned and contacting each other, the card reader position switch or contact  917  is aligned with the card holder actuator  918  and is actuated, remaining closed while the smartcard remains inside the card holder. If the smartcard  905  is removed as shown in  FIG. 86 , the card holder actuator  918  retracts back below the surface of the card holder  956 , breaks contact with the switch or contact  917 , and the card reader  906  position switch  917  is deactivated. 
         [0204]      FIGS. 87 and 88  show a variation of  FIGS. 85 and 86 , in which the card holder actuator  918  closes a position switch  917  in the card holder which in turn close a pair of contacts  922  on the surface of the card holder that are in contact with mating contacts on the card reader. The card reader is able to detect a closed circuit between its two contacts  922  and recognize that the smartcard  905  is in position. When the smartcard  905  is removed from the card holding space the actuator  918  opens the limit switch  917  and therefore the contacts  922 . 
         [0205]      FIG. 89  shows a general circuit diagram of one embodiment of a connection between smartcard  905 , smartcard holder  904 , smartcard reader  906 , and computer  901 . The smartcard contacts  908  are connected to the smartcard reader contacts  910  which are read by the smartcard reader IC  924  which in turn interfaces with the computer  901  via the communication cable  902  and data connectors  950  and  949 . In addition the smartcard holder contacts  922  for the smartcard position switch  917  provide status signal to smartcard reader IC through the smartcard reader contacts  922 .  FIG. 90  shows an example of the physical devices associated with circuit shown in  FIG. 89 . The circuits and devices to left side of the connection symbol &lt;-&gt;∥&lt;-&gt; in  FIG. 89  and subsequent figures are part of the smartcard unit, the circuits and devices to the right of the part of the computer unit. The smartcard unit is distinguished by the fact it contains the smartcard and that it stays on the person of the user when the two units are separated in normal operation. The connection symbol indicates the interface between the computer unit and smartcard unit, the features of which interface are disclosed in this application. In particular, if the user moves away from computer  901  without first disconnecting, the system should in most embodiments disconnect without damage at the indicated division between the smartcard unit and the computer unit. 
         [0206]      FIG. 91  and  FIG. 92  show a variation of  FIG. 89  and  FIG. 90  where the card holder is a card holder  954 , the smartcard reader is instead a smartcard holder connector  952 , and the smartcard reader IC is located in the computer connector  931 . Regardless of the variation from that of  FIG. 89  and  FIG. 90  the connection interface remains consistent where the circuits and devices to left side of the connection symbol &lt;-&gt;∥&lt;-&gt; are part of the smartcard unit, the circuits and devices to the right of the connection symbol are part of the computer unit. 
         [0207]      FIG. 93  and  FIG. 94  show yet another variation with the smartcard  958  being a contactless type, and the smartcard reader  903  also a contactless type and built into the computer  901  still follows the same concept where the circuits and devices to left side of the connection symbol &lt;-&gt;∥&lt;-&gt; are part of the smartcard unit, the circuits and devices to the right of the part of the computer unit. 
         [0208]    In a card holder that provides RFID shielding for smartcards with standard antenna design, the antenna is essentially the size of the smartcard, so it is necessary to have a protective flap that exposes the entire smartcard. If the smartcard has an antenna with smaller diameter area, only a portion of the smartcard needs to be exposed in order for a card reader to be able to communicate with the smartcard IC. Alternatively, a smartcard can be designed with a reed type switch which disables the antenna when in the presence of a magnetic field. 
       NUMERICAL LISTING OF THE REFERENCE NUMBERS 
       [0209]      
         [0000]    
       
         
               
               
               
             
           
               
                   
               
               
                 Ref. 
                 Name 
                 Description 
               
               
                   
               
             
             
               
                 901 
                 Computer 
                 Computer, Cash Register Point of Sale, Control System, or other 
               
               
                   
                   
                 External Electronic Device 
               
               
                 902 
                 Data Cable 
                 Data or communication cable. Cable types could be USB, Serial, 
               
               
                   
                   
                 straight-through or equivalent. 
               
               
                 903 
                 Reader Type 1 
                 Contactless card reader, used for computer and other electronic 
               
               
                   
                   
                 device access. No direct contact with card. The reader has an 
               
               
                   
                   
                 additional feature to assist holding the smartcard in place during 
               
               
                   
                   
                 use. 
               
               
                 904 
                 Card Holder Type 1 
                 Card holder for ISO 7810/7816 type smartcards 905 or 
               
               
                   
                   
                 contactless cards 958 in a credit card form, the card holder may 
               
               
                   
                   
                 have a lanyard attachment 907, opening for direct contact to 
               
               
                   
                   
                 smartcard contacts or to a card&#39;s antenna. 
               
               
                 905 
                 Card Type 1 
                 Smartcard Contact Type as defined by ISO 7810/7816, this card 
               
               
                   
                   
                 may also have antenna and is capable of being read by 
               
               
                   
                   
                 contactless reader, otherwise known as a Hybrid card 
               
               
                 906 
                 Reader Type 2 
                 Contact card reader, used for computer and other electronic 
               
               
                   
                   
                 device access, direct contact with smartcard contact pins of 
               
               
                   
                   
                 layout specified by ISO 7810/7816. The card reader has 
               
               
                   
                   
                 necessary feature to remain connected to the smartcard or holder 
               
               
                   
                   
                 while in use, and designed to allow the smartcard or holder to be 
               
               
                   
                   
                 attached vertically and\or laterally in addition to axially. 
               
               
                 907 
                 Lanyard or ID Reel 
                 Card holder feature for securing lanyard, ID reel or equivalent 
               
               
                   
                 Attachment 
                 device. 
               
               
                 908 
                 Smartcard Contacts 
                 Smartcard Contact pins are contacts on the surface of a 
               
               
                   
                   
                 smartcard which allow communication with smartcard IC. Refer 
               
               
                   
                   
                 to ISO 7810/7816 
               
               
                 909 
                 Ferrous Metal 
                 Ferromagnetic metal or other material that attracts 911 
               
               
                 910 
                 Card Reader Sensors 
                 Card Holder Reader Contact Sensor Pins. These sensors connect 
               
               
                   
                   
                 smartcard reader integrated circuit 924 for communication with 
               
               
                   
                   
                 the smartcard IC via the smartcard contacts. 
               
               
                 911 
                 Magnetic Device 
                 Magnet or other device that attracts 909 
               
               
                 912 
                 Data Pins 
                 Card holder &amp; adaptor USB or equivalent connector pins/ 
               
               
                   
                   
                 contacts 
               
               
                 913 
                 z Magnetic Pins 
                 Magnetic USB connector pins/contacts 
               
               
                 914 
                 Mechanical Clip 
                 Mechanical clip either alternate to magnet or protects reader 
               
               
                   
                   
                 contact pins 
               
               
                 915 
                 Card Reader Flap 
                 Flap to assist with aligning, engaging the card reader with the 
               
               
                   
                   
                 smartcard or holder and/or to protect sensors 910 
               
               
                 916 
                 Card Holder Flap 
                 Flap to protect sensors 908 and or to assist with aligning, 
               
               
                   
                   
                 engaging the Card Reader with the Smartcard or Holder. The 
               
               
                   
                   
                 flaps may also be sliders and offer RFID protection. 
               
               
                 917 
                 Position Switch 
                 Mechanical\Magnetic Position Switch 
               
               
                 918 
                 Position Switch 
                 Mechanical\Magnetic Position Switch Actuator 
               
               
                   
                 Actuator 
               
               
                 919 
                 Contact Pins Internal 
                 Card Holder Internal Contact Pins Reader 
               
               
                 920 
                 Reader Type 4 
                 Card reader of Types 1, 2, or 3 transformed into standard 
               
               
                   
                   
                 desktop card reader 
               
               
                 921 
                 Card Holder Type 5 
                 Card Holder of Types 1, 2, or 3 with integrated card reader 
               
               
                   
                   
                 integrated circuit 924 
               
               
                 922 
                 Position Switch 
                 Mechanical\Magnetic Position Switch Contacts or Relay 
               
               
                   
                 Contacts - Relays 
                 Contacts 
               
               
                 923 
                 z Magnetic Connector 
                 Magnetic USB Connector 
               
               
                 924 
                 Smart Card Reader 
                 Smartcard Reader Integrated Circuit 
               
               
                   
                 Circuitry 
               
               
                 925 
                 Contact Pins External 
                 External Badge Holder Card Chip Contact pins 
               
               
                 926 
                 Computer Connector 
                 Computer connector Simple Type, USB\Serial\or equivalent 
               
               
                   
                 Type 1 
               
               
                 927 
                 Lanyard or ID Reel 
                 Lanyard, ID card smartcard clip, or retractable ID reel for 
               
               
                   
                   
                 holding ID and\or ID holder on a person&#39;s possession 
               
               
                 928 
                 Work Shirt 
                 Shirt\Blouse\Jacket or other apparel 
               
               
                 929 
                 Tether Connector 
                 Surrogate Card Holder Connection 
               
               
                 930 
                 Tether Cable 
                 Surrogate Card Holder Connector cable 
               
               
                 931 
                 Computer Connector 
                 Computer connector Smart Type, USB\Serial\or equivalent, with 
               
               
                   
                 Type 2 
                 smartcard integrated circuit 924 located in the connector 
               
               
                 932 
                 Computer Connector 
                 Computer connector Dual Simple Type, USB\Serial\or 
               
               
                   
                 Type 3 
                 equivalent with a second female USB\Serial\or equivalent port 
               
               
                 933 
                 Computer Connector 
                 Computer connector Dual Smart Type, Dual USB\Serial\or 
               
               
                   
                 Type 4 
                 equivalent with a second female USB\Serial\or equivalent port 
               
               
                   
                   
                 smartcard integrated circuit 924 located in the connector 
               
               
                 934 
                 Card Holder Guide 1 
                 Card holder or smartcard unit guide, feature to help alignment of 
               
               
                   
                   
                 the card reader onto the card holder or smartcard 
               
               
                 935 
                 Card Reader Guide 1 
                 Card reader guide, a feature to help alignment of the card reader 
               
               
                   
                   
                 with the card holder or smartcard 
               
               
                 936 
                 Position Feature 
                 Features on the either or both the card holder and card reader to 
               
               
                   
                   
                 assist in holding the units in position during use. Features 
               
               
                   
                   
                 include convex and concave “dimples”, coating or material 
               
               
                   
                   
                 construction for necessary coefficient of friction, etc. 
               
               
                 937 
                 Replication Card 
                 Replicates the actual card&#39;s contact pins such that it can be read 
               
               
                   
                   
                 by another standard and\or specialized card reader. 
               
               
                 938 
                 Reader Type 5 
                 Standard Desktop Card Reader either external or built in. 
               
               
                 939 
                 Tethered Reader 
                 Desktop card holder for tethered card readers 
               
               
                 940 
                 Keyboard Connector 
                 Keyboard with USB\Serial connector 
               
               
                   
                 Type 1 
               
               
                 941 
                 Keyboard Connector 
                 Keyboard with Card Reader 
               
               
                   
                 Type 2 
               
               
                 942 
                 USB Splitter 
                 USB Splitter 
               
               
                 944 
                 Pushbutton 
                 Card Reader\Communication Reset Pushbutton 
               
               
                 945 
                 Secondary USB 
                 Secondary USB Connector 
               
               
                   
                 Connector 
               
               
                 946 
                 Reader Type 8 
                 Reader Type 2 in a desktop format or built in to computer 
               
               
                 947 
                 Reader Type 7 
                 Reader Type 1 in a desktop format or built in to computer 
               
               
                 948 
                 Reader Type 9 
                 Reader Type 3 in a desktop format or built in to computer 
               
               
                 949 
                 USB Female 
                 USB A Type Female Connector or equivalent 
               
               
                   
                 Connector 
               
               
                 950 
                 USB Male Connector 
                 USB A Male Connector or equivalent 
               
               
                 951 
                 Holder Connector 
                 Card holder connector with contacts pins to transfer the 
               
               
                   
                 Type 1 
                 smartcard contacts, card in position contacts, connector reader in 
               
               
                   
                   
                 position contacts to the smartcard integrated circuit located in the 
               
               
                   
                   
                 computer connector. The connector contacts are not limited to 
               
               
                   
                   
                 standard commercial products, e.g. USB or DB-9, but rather are 
               
               
                   
                   
                 designed to mate with the contacts on the card holder. 
               
               
                 952 
                 Holder Connector 
                 Card holder connector of USB\Serial\or equivalent The 
               
               
                   
                 Type 2 
                 connector contacts are not limited to standard commercial 
               
               
                   
                   
                 products, but rather are designed to mate with the contacts on the 
               
               
                   
                   
                 card holder. Designed to be used with card holder which has a 
               
               
                   
                   
                 smartcard integrated circuit 924. 
               
               
                 953 
                 Card Holder Type 3 
                 Slip-On card holder of types 1 or 2 904, or 956 
               
               
                 954 
                 Card Type 2 
                 Modified Card Type 1, which may have additional feature not 
               
               
                   
                   
                 defined by ISO7810\7816, it may have notches cut out, surface 
               
               
                   
                   
                 features or ferrous metal features added to it. 
               
               
                 955 
                 Indicator Light 
                 Light to indicate when the Card Reader or Connector is properly 
               
               
                   
                   
                 connect to the Carder Holder and\or when the communications 
               
               
                   
                   
                 exist\active. 
               
               
                 956 
                 Card Holder Type 2 
                 Card holder for ISO7810\7816 type smartcards 905 indirect 
               
               
                   
                   
                 electrical connections between the smartcard contacts and the 
               
               
                   
                   
                 surface of the holder. It may also have position switches, 
               
               
                   
                   
                 actuators, and contacts for detecting card and\or readers in 
               
               
                   
                   
                 position. 
               
               
                 957 
                 Antenna - Card 
                 Smartcard antenna for communication with the smartcard IC. 
               
               
                 958 
                 Card Type 3 
                 Contactless Type Card or FOB, Typically a pocket or keychain 
               
               
                   
                   
                 device containing a Smartchip 
               
               
                 959 
                 Card Holder Type 4 
                 A clip like device that slides onto an FOB or Smartcard with or 
               
               
                   
                   
                 without contacts to enable a contactless reader to be magnetically 
               
               
                   
                   
                 attached 
               
               
                 960 
                 Spring Clamp Type 1 
                 Mechanical hinge on the card reader for “clamping” the card 
               
               
                   
                   
                 reader and smartcard or holder during computer access 
               
               
                 961 
                 Spring Clamp Type 2 
                 Mechanical hinge on the card holder for “clamping” the card 
               
               
                   
                   
                 reader and smartcard or holder. Operates protective flaps 916, 
               
               
                   
                   
                 antenna windows 970, etc. 
               
               
                 962 
                 Spring Clamp Type 3 
                 Mechanical hinge of Type 1 where the hinge action indirectly 
               
               
                   
                   
                 achieves the clamping action 
               
               
                 963 
                 Spring Clamp Type 4 
                 Mechanical hinge of Type 2 where the hinge action indirectly 
               
               
                   
                   
                 achieves the clamping action 
               
               
                 964 
                 Smartcard IC 
                 Smartcard Integrated Circuit Chip, either contact or contactless 
               
               
                 965 
                 Reader Type 6 
                 Contactless card reader wall mounted for area room or building 
               
               
                   
                   
                 access 
               
               
                 966 
                 Card Holder Guide 2 
                 Card holder or smartcard unit guide, feature to help attach the 
               
               
                   
                   
                 card reader onto the card holder or smartcard 
               
               
                 967 
                 Card Reader Guide 2 
                 Card reader guide, a feature the help attach the card reader with 
               
               
                   
                   
                 the card holder or smartcard 
               
               
                 968 
                 Reader Type 3 
                 Contact card reader, used for computer and other electronic 
               
               
                   
                   
                 device access, indirect contact with card and\or SIM contact 
               
               
                   
                   
                 pins, where the holder has internal circuit to replicate card 
               
               
                   
                   
                 contacts on surface of holder either in standard ISO7610\7816 
               
               
                   
                   
                 format or alternate layout. In addition the reader has either 
               
               
                   
                   
                 contacts or switch to detect card in position and a reader in 
               
               
                   
                   
                 position switch. The card reader has necessary feature to remain 
               
               
                   
                   
                 connected to the smartcard or holder while in use, and designed 
               
               
                   
                   
                 to allow the smartcard or holder to be attached vertically and\or 
               
               
                   
                   
                 laterally in addition to axially. 
               
               
                 969 
                 Antenna - Reader 
                 Smartcard reader antenna 
               
               
                 970 
                 Antenna - Window 
                 Opening on card holder to allow access to a contactless 
               
               
                   
                   
                 smartcard antenna otherwise known as interrogation zone 
               
               
                 971 
                 Card Holder Adaptor 
                 A device which attaches to card holder to allow various card 
               
               
                   
                   
                 readers or holder connectors to be attached. It may also include 
               
               
                   
                   
                 the smartcard reader IC. 
               
               
                 972 
                 Work Coveralls 
                 Coveralls used by workers in various environments especially 
               
               
                   
                   
                 extremely dirty\hazardous or extremely clean environments as in 
               
               
                   
                   
                 pharmaceuticals 
               
               
                 973 
                 Card Replication 
                 A combination of a virtual card 937, communication cable 902, 
               
               
                   
                 Tether 
                 and card holder adaptor. 
               
               
                 974 
                 Generic Card Holder 
                 May be, for example, any of the above-mentioned types. 
               
               
                   
               
             
          
         
       
     
         [0210]    Although specific preferred embodiments are shown and described herein, it will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that additions, deletions, modifications, and substitutions not specifically described may be made without department from the spirit and scope of the invention. 
         [0211]    Thus, various aspects of the present devices and methods enable or facilitate various of the following features: 
         [0212]    In order for a user to maintain possession of their smartcard while placing the smartcard in a reader either: 
         [0213]    1. The smartcard reader adaptor or connector having a sufficiently pliable cable is attached to the user&#39;s smartcard holder directly or indirectly which is worn by the user with a lanyard, ID reel, belt clip, armband, etc. See, for example,  FIG. 1  and  FIG. 4 ,  FIG. 20  and  FIG. 21 . 
         [0214]    2. The smartcard holder attached to the user via an ID reel or sufficiently “stretchable” cord is inserted into a smartcard reader adaptor. See  FIG. 2  and  FIG. 24   
         [0215]    In order for the connection of smartcard holder to a smartcard reader adaptor to be practical and desirable three basic criteria can be met: 
         [0216]    1. A simple and quick a method of connection; 
         [0217]    2. A reliable design to maintain connection while in use; 
         [0218]    3. A safe and rapid method of release. 
         [0219]    To meet these criteria the smartcard holder and the smartcard reader adaptor may have the following features: 
         [0220]    1. The smartcard holder and smartcard reader adaptor have structures features that align the contacts of smartcard holder with those of the smartcard reader adaptor. 
         [0221]    2. The smartcard holder and smartcard reader adaptor have structures features that apply appropriate force to maintain connection to each other. 
         [0222]    3. The smartcard holder and smartcard reader adaptor have structures features that allow their separation laterally and\or vertically, in addition the axial method. 
         [0223]    4. The smartcard holder and smartcard reader adaptor have structures features that allow their connection laterally and\or vertically, in addition the current axial method. That may make them easier to connect single handed and/or blind by feel. 
         [0224]    From Smartcard Alliance, a Smartcard is defined as: 
         [0225]    “A smartcard is a device that includes an embedded integrated circuit chip (ICC) that can be either a secure microcontroller or equivalent intelligence with internal memory or a memory chip alone. The card connects to a reader with direct physical contact or with a remote contactless radio frequency interface. With an embedded microcontroller, smartcards have the unique ability to store large amounts of data, carry out their own on-card functions e.g., encryption and mutual authentication and interact intelligently with a smartcard reader. Smartcard technology conforms to international standards ISO/IEC 7816 and ISO/IEC 14443 and is available in a variety of form factors, including plastic cards, fobs, subscriber identity modules SIMs used in GSM mobile phones, and USB-based tokens.” 
         [0226]    The term “smartcard” as used in this application includes, but is not limited to, the Smartcard Alliance definition, and includes but is not limited to, other standards and definitions referenced herein. 
         [0227]    Many factors influence the detail design “shape” of a smartcard unit, a smartcard or smartcard holder and smartcard reader. First, smartcards come in three forms, contact, contactless, and hybrid. A Hybrid implements both contact and contactless interfaces to the smartcard&#39;s integrated circuit. Second, the computer requirements—operating system and/or software—can influence what features are required in the smartcard holder and smartcard reader. Other factors would be defined by end-user requirements or preferences (for example, RFID shielding) or the environment (for example, office versus industrial, where features such as chemical resistance, heavy duty, or clean room compliant are desired). 
         [0228]    Contact type smartcards are governed by ISO/IEC 7810 and ISO/IEC 7816 series of standards which define features such as physical shape and characteristics, electrical connector positions and shapes, electrical characteristics, communications protocols, etc., of the card. Of particular note is ISO-7816-3 Activation/Deactivation sequencer which initiates and automatic emergency deactivation upon card removal. This requirement influences the design of all contact smartcard readers to include a “card in position” switch. If the electronic device&#39;s operating system or software requires a card removal policy then it may be necessary to add secondary “card in position” switch on the card holder so that the security system is not bypassed by the user removing their smartcard holder after logging onto the system. 
         [0229]    Contactless type smartcards are governed by ISO/IEC 14443-x which define features such as physical characteristics including antennae dimensions, radio frequency power and signal interface, etc of the card. Contactless type smartcards come not only in a credit card type format but in other various shapes and sizes depending on their antennae dimensions, these are sometimes referred to as Tags and FOBs. 
         [0230]    Contactless and Hybrid type smartcards requiring RFID shielding may require smartcard holders with a “window” feature that allows the user open the window when presenting to an area access reader or when attaching an electronic device&#39;s smartcard reader. The “window” can be spring loaded to automatically close. Additionally, the window can be designed to hold the electronic device&#39;s smartcard reader in place. See, for example,  FIGS. 9 to 12 . 
         [0231]    Physical modifications to a contact type smartcard as defined by ISO/IEC 7810 to have features for easy smartcard reader connection will be considered a smartcard holder. see U.S. Pat. D 511,355, illustrated in  FIG. 196 . 
         [0232]    A “Smartcard Reader” typically is understood to mean a device with the smartcard integrated circuit such as those by NXP. See  FIG. 197  and  FIG. 198 . The interface is connected to the contacts which communicate with the smartcard and contacts which communicate with the computer. In some cases the smartcard interface integrated circuit may be located in the smartcard holder itself. In order for the smartcard held within the smartcard holder to communicate with the computer an interconnecting element with holder adaptor and computer adaptor is required. Typically this interconnecting element contains the smartcard interface integrated circuit. However, as is explained elsewhere in this specification, the smartcard IC, or equivalent functionality, may be located in many different places in the chain of communication between a smartcard and an external computer or other device. 
         [0233]    Several embodiments and variations of a smartcard unit (smartcard, or smartcard and holder) and a computer unit (smartcard reader connected to a computer, or computer with built in smartcard reader connection system) are described herein for various smartcard forms. Details of the smartcard unit and computer unit connection are disclosed and explained. In some embodiments, the smartcard IC is in the “smartcard unit” rather than the “computer unit.” 
         [0234]    A design concept goal is to enable the user to maintain possession of their smartcard by either attaching a computer unit to the smartcard unit or attaching the smartcard unit to the computer unit in such a manner that makes it simple, easy, and fast to connect and align them together as well as easy to separate, particularly in the unintentional case. The design concepts apply to both contact and contactless cards and readers. In case of contact cards, one design criteria is reliable alignment and contact between the card reader and smartcard&#39;s contact pads; whereas with contactless cards the corresponding design criteria is proximity and access to the smartcard antenna&#39;s interrogation zone. 
         [0235]    The system includes electronic circuitry configured to at least one of encode and decode data transmitted between the smartcard electronic chip and the computer, otherwise known as a smartcard integrated circuit, it is what enables the a smartcard and computer to communicate with one another. Primarily the smartcard IC is part of the computer unit, meaning the smartcard IC can reside either in the component which connects to the smartcard unit, see  FIG. 30 , the component which connects to the computer, see  FIG. 32 , or in the computer itself, see  FIG. 8 . In a variation, the smartcard IC is located in the smartcard unit, see  FIG. 18 . In the case where the smartcard holder is also effectively a smartcard reader, however, the connection features disclosed here still apply as the smartcard unit with a smartcard IC still enables the user to maintain possession of their smartcard. 
         [0236]    There are two different “operating modes” the for smartcard unit and computer unit connection system. The first is where the computer unit attaches to the smartcard unit worn by the user with the computer unit&#39;s communication cable tethering the user to the computer, see  FIG. 5 . The second is where the smartcard unit worn by the user attaches to the computer unit, with the smartcard unit being tethered to the user by an ID reel or other sufficiently “stretchable” cord, see  FIG. 6 . 
         [0237]    In the embodiments, there are basically two different types of computer unit styles, contact and contactless, where the computer unit style is dependent on the type of smartcard used. There are basically three different types of smartcard units, simple smartcard in credit card format, simple smartcard in a holder, and modified smartcard, for example, FOB, heavy duty, modified simple smartcard, etc. The smartcard holder has at least six variations: direct, indirect, shielded, and unshielded for contact style cards; shielded and unshielded for contactless style cards. There are at least two basic connection methods, mechanical and magnetic. There are numerous connection designs, for example, smartcard unit “clips” to computer unit vs computer unit “clips” to smartcard unit. Any combination of computer unit and smartcard unit connection has two common features disclosed here. Simple, fast, multidirectional, and safe connect-ability and remove-ability and easy self-alignment features. 
         [0238]    Although specific embodiments and combinations of features have been described, the skilled reader will understand how to combine features of different embodiments to produce new combinations and embodiments within the scope of the appended claims. 
         [0239]    In one embodiment, a card holder and reader system is described for a smartcard having an electronic chip. The system includes a card holder, a card reader, and a communication cable. The card holder is configured to receive at least a portion of the smartcard containing the electronic chip while enabling external electrical access to the electronic chip, and has a first alignment device. The card reader is removably connectable to the card holder. The card reader has first electrical contacts configured to communicate with the electronic chip on the smartcard and a second alignment device configured to cooperate with the first alignment device to align the first electrical contacts on the card reader for communication with the electronic chip. The communication cable is connected at one end to the card reader and is in electrical communication with the first electrical contacts for transmitting data between the smartcard electronic chip and an external device.