Avionic Host Device Key Distribution System
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Solution Overview
Problem
Cryptographic systems in aviation data transfer systems require significant time to load keys and authenticate users, which is disadvantageous due to time constraints in aircraft operations.
Innovation Solution
A method and system where a host device receives cryptographic keys from a removable data storage device and distributes them to multiple cryptographic units via a data bus, simplifying the key loading process and enabling all key management activities to be performed at a single terminal.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If multiple cryptographic units each load keys individually, then cryptographic processing can be performed by all units, but significant time resources are consumed for key loading and user authentication
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the key loading operation into a single centralized process at the host device, where all cryptographic units receive keys simultaneously from one source rather than each unit loading keys independently. This consolidation reduces total key loading time while maintaining full cryptographic processing capability across all units.
Solution Approach 2:
The host device performs key loading and authentication preparation in advance before cryptographic operations are needed. By pre-loading keys and authenticating users at the host level before data processing begins, the system eliminates time-consuming key loading operations during critical cryptographic processing phases.
2Ease of operation
If individual key loading is performed at each cryptographic unit, then key distribution is straightforward, but time consumption increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The host device serves as an intermediary between key storage and multiple cryptographic units. Instead of each unit independently accessing keys, the host device mediates the key distribution process, receiving keys from a central source and distributing them to all cryptographic units simultaneously, thereby reducing authentication time while maintaining operational simplicity.
3Loss of time
If centralized key management is implemented, then key loading time is reduced, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The host device is designed with multi-functionality, serving both as a key management center and as a cryptographic processing unit itself. By making the host device universal - capable of both managing keys and performing cryptographic operations - the system reduces overall complexity compared to having separate dedicated key management hardware, while still achieving centralized key loading benefits.
Data Source
AI summary
Systems and methods for managing cryptographic keys in an avionic data transfer system are provided. A host device associated with the avionic data transfer system can receive one or cryptographic keys via a key fill interface. For instance, in one embodiment, the host device can receive one or more cryptographic keys from a removable data cartridge. The host device can act as a key server for other cryptographic units associated with the avionic data transfer system via a data bus. For instance, the host device can distribute one or more cryptographic keys to other cryptographic units associated with aircraft via an aircraft bus. The other cryptographic units can use the one or more cryptographic keys for cryptographic processing of data.