Avionics Data Loading Device with Sealed Decryption Unit
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for secure data transfer to avionics devices in vehicles lack sufficient security, as data is often transmitted unencrypted, and existing encryption methods do not adequately prevent manipulation or hacking, especially in mobile data loading scenarios where physical access and monitoring are limited.
Innovation Solution
A mobile data loading device with a decryption unit and digital signature certification unit, where encrypted and signed data can only be decrypted after verification of authenticity, and the software and operating system are stored in encrypted form within a sealed security housing to prevent unauthorized access and manipulation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If data is transmitted unencrypted through mobile data loading devices, then ease of operation and compatibility are improved, but security and reliability deteriorate due to manipulation risks
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by encrypting data before transmission and verifying digital signatures before decryption. The encryption is performed in advance on the data source, and the signature verification occurs before the decryption unit processes the data, preventing manipulation during transfer without requiring changes to the transmission process itself
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary decryption unit with a sealed housing that acts as a trusted mediator between the data source and the target system. This intermediary contains the decryption functionality and signature verification in a physically protected environment, preventing direct access to decryption keys and ensuring data integrity without requiring the end system to handle unencrypted data
2Reliability
If encryption and digital signatures are implemented, then security and reliability are improved, but device complexity increases due to additional security components
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the decryption unit and signature verification functionality into a single integrated device with a unified sealed housing. This combination consolidates multiple security functions into one component, reducing the overall number of separate security devices needed and simplifying the system architecture while maintaining comprehensive security
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies the nested doll principle by placing the decryption unit inside a sealed housing that contains the signature verification functionality. The decryption unit is nested within the broader security context of the sealed housing and verification mechanisms, creating layers of protection where each layer encapsulates specific functions
3Reliability
If a sealed security housing is used for the decryption unit, then security against physical access and manipulation is improved, but ease of repair and maintenance deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies segmentation by designing the sealed housing as a discrete, self-contained module that can be replaced as a unit. The decryption unit and verification components are segmented into this separate sealed package, allowing the sealed housing to be replaced without disassembling or repairing internal components, thus maintaining security while enabling maintenance
Data Source
Figure 1a~1d
Figure 2a~2b
Figure 3~4
AI summary
The device has a decryption unit (9) that is arranged in a secured and sealed housing (10). The housing is provided with an input (4) for input of encrypted data, and an output for loading decrypted data to a line-replaceable unit (LRU) in a data line provided between the input and output decryption processors (7) storing the decryption program for decrypting the encrypted data using a notebook computer. The decrypted data is stored in a data memory of the decryption processors and loaded into the LRU.