Car Processor With SPAD Quantum RNG for Secure Encryption
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
The automotive industry faces challenges with insufficient entropy properties of current random number generators for data encryption, making systems vulnerable to piracy and hacker attacks, especially in autonomous systems and car-to-x communication.
Innovation Solution
A microcontroller with integrated quantum process-based generators for true random numbers, utilizing SPAD diodes and optical quantum processes, including a semiconductor substrate, memory elements, and data interfaces, to generate secure encryption keys.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If quantum process-based generators are integrated into microcontrollers, then data security and entropy properties are improved, but device complexity and integration difficulty increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates the quantum random number generator directly into the microcontroller by combining SPAD diodes, optical waveguides, and evaluation circuits within a single semiconductor chip. This merging of previously separate components resolves the contradiction by achieving high data security through quantum processes while managing integration complexity through unified design.
Solution Approach 2:
The microcontroller is designed to perform multiple functions: classical processing tasks and quantum random number generation. The quantum generator serves as an integrated entropy source that enhances security for encryption keys and authentication protocols, while the same platform handles general control functions, thereby improving reliability without requiring entirely separate systems.
2Reliability
If quantum random number generators are used, then entropy properties and resistance to quantum attacks are improved, but manufacturing precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs SPAD diodes operated in Geiger mode, which fundamentally changes the operating parameters to detect single photons. This parameter change enables true quantum random number generation with high entropy properties while the associated manufacturing processes are optimized for this specific operational mode, managing the precision requirements through targeted process design.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces classical electronic random number generation mechanisms with quantum optical processes. By substituting mechanical/electronic systems with quantum optical phenomena (photon emission and detection), the system achieves superior entropy properties. The manufacturing precision is managed by establishing specialized fabrication processes for optoelectronic integration rather than attempting to adapt classical manufacturing.
3Productivity
If SPAD diodes and optical quantum processes are integrated, then true random number generation capability is improved, but device structure and production complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces optical dimensions into the traditionally electronic microcontroller domain by integrating optical waveguides and photon-emitting/detecting components. This dimensional transition enables true quantum random number generation capability. The structure complexity is managed by co-integrating optical and electronic components on the same chip using established optoelectronic fabrication techniques.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses optical waveguides as intermediary structures to couple photon-emitting SPAD diodes with photon-receiving SPAD diodes. This intermediary enables the quantum optical process to function within the compact microcontroller structure, improving random number generation capability while the waveguide integration methods manage the structural complexity through standardized photonic circuit design.
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
Enhances data security by generating highly random numbers resistant to quantum computer attacks, improving encryption effectiveness and reducing vulnerabilities.
Implementation Method 1
at least a second or receiver SPAD diode, which is coupled to at least a first or transmitter SPAD diode via an optical waveguide. Both SPAD diodes are operated in Geiger mode.
Implementation Method 2
on the basis of stimulated and spontaneous photon emissions in at least a second or receiver SPAD diode
Implementation Method 3
at least a second or receiver SPAD diode, which is coupled to at least a first or transmitter SPAD diode via an optical waveguide
Implementation Method 4
at least a second or receiver SPAD diode, which is coupled to at least a first or transmitter SPAD diode via an optical waveguide
Data Source
AI summary
A secure microcontroller for controlling devices in automobiles comprises a semiconductor substrate, memory elements, at least one internal bus, at least one 8/16/32/64-bit microcontroller core, one or more data interfaces and at least one quantum process-based generator for true random numbers. The memory elements, the data interface, the quantum process-based generator and the microcontroller core are connected to the internal bus. The quantum process-based generator generates and provides a random number at the request of the microcontroller core. The microcontroller core generates a key using a program from one or more of its memory elements and the random number. The microcontroller core uses a program from one or more of its memory elements and the key to encrypt and decrypt data which it exchanges with devices external to the secure microcontroller. The semiconductor substrate integrally comprises the sub-devices of the secure microcontroller mentioned herein.