Biometric Key Generation via Cryptographic Hashing

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing cryptographic key generation methods lack sufficient security and variability, making it difficult to maintain secrecy and confidentiality of keys.

Innovation Solution

A control process that generates a cryptographic key by comparing biometric data items and applying a cryptographic function to the first biometric data item, utilizing the variability of biometric data to ensure high protection and confidentiality, and integrating this key into a cryptographic system for identity verification and group signatures.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If traditional random generation methods are used for cryptographic keys, then key generation is simple and fast, but the security and secrecy of the keys cannot be sufficiently maintained

Engineering Contradiction:

ImprovesecurityVSAvoidcomplexity

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent introduces biometric data as an intermediary mediator between the user and the cryptographic key. The biometric template serves as a mediating element that transforms physical biological characteristics into cryptographic secrets through cryptographic functions, providing a secure bridge that enhances key security while maintaining operational simplicity

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent changes the fundamental parameter of key generation from random numerical values to biometric-derived values. By transforming the input parameter from arbitrary randomness to unique biological characteristics processed through cryptographic functions, the system achieves higher security while the overall process remains computationally efficient

Inventive Principle:

Principle #35Parameter changes

2Ease of operation

If biometric data is stored in databases for verification, then identity verification becomes possible, but the confidentiality of biometric data is compromised

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveverification capabilityVSAvoidconfidentiality

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSLoss of information

Solution Approach 1:

The patent extracts only the essential verification capability from biometric data by storing hashed representations rather than raw biometric information. The cryptographic hash function extracts the verification function while removing the confidential identity information, allowing authentication without compromising privacy

Inventive Principle:

Principle #2Taking out (Extraction)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent uses disposable cryptographic hashes of biometric data instead of storing permanent raw biometric templates. These hashed representations serve as single-use verification tokens that can be compared without revealing the original biometric information, effectively discarding the confidential element while retaining verification utility

Inventive Principle:

Principle #27Cheap short-living objects (Disposable)

Data Source

PatentUS8670562B2Generation and use of a biometric key

Publication Date: 2014.03.11 MORPHO

AI summary

In a control system comprising control device adapted for, on the one hand, receiving signal indicating a first biometric datum (W), and, on the other hand, obtaining a second biometric datum captured (w′), at the level of the control device, the first and second biometric date are compared. Next, it is decided whether the first and second biometric data correspond on the basis of the comparison. Thereafter, at least a secret cryptographic key part (H(w)) is generated by applying cryptographic function to the first biometric datum.