Anti-Tamper Circuitry for Removal-Triggered Function Disable
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Solution Overview
Problem
Third-party suppliers can swap or install used components in systems, leading to performance issues, damage, and safety risks, particularly in medical imaging systems like CT and x-ray systems, as existing anti-tamper mechanisms fail to prevent the reuse of electronic devices.
Innovation Solution
Incorporation of anti-tamper circuitry that disables functionality of components when removed from their original mounting, using mechanisms such as sealed housings, switches, and erasure of memory to prevent unauthorized reuse.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of repair
If a device is designed to be removable from an external component for updates or repairs, then ease of repair and adaptability are improved, but the device becomes vulnerable to tampering and unauthorized access
Solution Approach 1:
The anti-tamper circuitry is pre-configured to detect removal events and automatically disable circuitry functions. When the device is removed from the external component, the mounting structure sensor triggers the anti-tamper circuitry to cut power or disable specific functions, preventing unauthorized access or tampering before it can occur.
Solution Approach 2:
The mounting structure serves as an intermediary element that both enables legitimate removal for repair and triggers security responses. The mounting structure includes sensors that detect when the device is removed, acting as a mediator between the device and the external component while initiating the anti-tamper response through the mounting structure circuitry.
2Reliability
If circuitry is disabled when removed from external component, then security is improved, but functionality is lost during legitimate repair or update operations
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically changes its operational state based on mounting status. When mounted, all functions are enabled for normal operation. When removed, the anti-tamper circuitry disables functions to prevent tampering. The system can be re-enabled through authorized procedures such as authentication or re-mounting, allowing legitimate repair operations while maintaining security.
Solution Approach 2:
The electrical parameters of the circuitry are changed based on mounting status. The anti-tamper circuitry modifies power delivery, signal routing, or circuit activation states when removal is detected. This allows the same physical circuitry to operate in different functional modes - fully operational when mounted, and disabled or restricted when removed.
3Reliability
If anti-tamper circuitry is added to disable functions on removal, then security is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The anti-tamper circuitry is merged with the existing mounting structure and power delivery circuitry. Rather than adding completely separate security systems, the patent integrates security functions into the existing mechanical and electrical interfaces. The mounting structure sensor, anti-tamper circuitry, and power delivery system work as an integrated unit, reducing overall complexity compared to separate security subsystems.
Data Source
Figure 1A~1C
Figure 2
Figure 3A~3B
AI summary
Embodiments include a device, comprising: a mounting structure configured to mount the device to an external component; first circuitry; and anti-tamper circuitry electrically connected to the first circuitry and configured to disable at least one function of the first circuitry when the device is removed from the external component and methods of operating the device.