Anti-tamper Circuit with Segmented Conductive Networks
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional anti-tamper circuits in electronic systems, such as credit card machines, are vulnerable to tampering and fail to effectively protect sensitive data from unauthorized access.
Innovation Solution
An anti-tamper system comprising conductive networks and a control unit, where conductive modules are sandwiched between objects to form electrical paths, and the control unit detects damage to these paths, initiating an action to erase sensitive data upon detection, thereby preventing unauthorized access.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a conventional anti-tamper circuit is used, then the structure is simple and easy to implement, but the security reliability is insufficient and can be easily cracked by attackers
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the anti-tamper protection into multiple independent conductive networks, each containing several conductive modules arranged in series. Each network monitors a specific electrical path, creating segmented protection zones. This segmentation increases security reliability by requiring attackers to compromise multiple independent paths simultaneously, while maintaining reasonable complexity through modular design.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements a hierarchical structure where conductive modules are nested within conductive networks, and multiple networks are integrated into a unified control system. The conductive modules are embedded between circuit boards, with connection members extending through holes to form electrical paths. This nested arrangement enhances security by creating layered protection mechanisms while organizing complexity in a structured manner.
2Reliability
If multiple conductive networks with series-connected modules are implemented, then the security against tampering is significantly enhanced, but the device complexity and difficulty of repair increase
Solution Approach 1:
The control unit automatically detects damage to electrical paths by monitoring the conductive networks and autonomously erases sensitive data when tampering is detected. This self-service mechanism eliminates the need for manual intervention in security responses, maintaining high security reliability while reducing repair complexity by automating the protection enforcement.
Solution Approach 2:
The system pre-configures multiple conductive networks with series-connected modules before deployment, establishing the security architecture in advance. The control unit is pre-programmed with detection algorithms and data erasure protocols. This preliminary preparation ensures immediate security response upon tampering while simplifying maintenance, as the security mechanism is already optimized and tested during manufacturing.
3Reliability
If conductive modules are sandwiched between circuit boards to form electrical paths, then the tamper detection capability is improved, but the manufacturing precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the electrical path monitoring into discrete conductive modules, each responsible for a specific segment between circuit boards. This segmentation allows for standardized module designs with consistent connection interfaces, reducing positioning precision requirements while maintaining effective tamper detection capability across the entire system.
Solution Approach 2:
The conductive modules utilize materials and connection geometries that provide electrical conductivity with tolerance to positioning variations. By optimizing the electrical parameters (conductivity, contact area, pressure requirements), the system achieves reliable tamper detection without requiring extremely tight manufacturing tolerances for module placement between circuit boards.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The system significantly enhances security by making it difficult for attackers to crack the anti-tamper mechanism, as they must repair or reestablish all electrical paths quickly to avoid data erasure, effectively protecting sensitive information.
Implementation Method 1
The conductive connection members are electrically coupled to the first and second terminals and the conductive modules in such a way that at least the conductive modules and the conductive connection members cooperatively form a corresponding electrical path between the first and second terminals
Data Source
AI summary
An anti-tamper system includes a first object, second objects, and an anti-tamper circuit that includes conductive networks and a control unit. Each conductive network includes: conductive modules, each of which is sandwiched between the first object and a corresponding second object; and conductive connection members which are coupled to the conductive modules in such away that at least the conductive modules and the conductive connection members cooperatively form a corresponding electrical path sequentially going through the second objects. The control unit detects damage of each electrical path, and initiates a predetermined action upon detecting the damage.