Communication Device Encryption Key Generation Using Clock Signals
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Solution Overview
Problem
The distribution of encryption keys in communication devices can be challenging, especially in scenarios where manual distribution is difficult due to the number of devices or their geographical dispersion, leading to potential security risks and limitations in changing keys appropriately.
Innovation Solution
A communication device that generates an encryption key using common device information and periodic clock signals, allowing each device to create a unique encryption key without explicit distribution, and updates the key at appropriate timings to maintain security.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If encryption keys are manually distributed to each communication device, then security is improved, but device complexity and operational difficulty increase especially when devices are geographically dispersed or numerous
Solution Approach 1:
Each communication device independently generates its own encryption key using its unique device information and synchronized clock information, eliminating the need for manual key distribution. The device performs self-service by autonomously creating and managing its encryption keys through local computation based on pre-stored device identifiers and time-synchronized clock signals.
Solution Approach 2:
Clock information serves as an intermediary element that enables key generation without direct key distribution. By using synchronized clock signals as a common reference, devices can derive encryption keys independently while maintaining consistency across the network, acting as a mediator that replaces manual distribution processes.
2Ease of operation
If the same encryption key is used across multiple devices, then key distribution is simplified, but security deteriorates due to increased risk of key leakage and compromised cryptographic processing
Solution Approach 1:
Each communication device possesses unique local quality in the form of device-specific information (such as device identifiers or certificates) that is incorporated into encryption key generation. This ensures that while all devices use the same generation algorithm, each device produces a unique encryption key tailored to its local characteristics, preventing key reuse across devices.
Solution Approach 2:
The encryption key generation process incorporates variable parameters including device-specific information and time-varying clock information. By changing these parameters for each device and over time, the system generates distinct encryption keys dynamically, transforming a static key distribution problem into a dynamic parameter-driven generation process.
3Reliability
If encryption keys are changed frequently to improve security, then security is enhanced, but operational complexity increases due to the need for manual redistribution
Solution Approach 1:
The encryption key generation system is made dynamic by incorporating time-varying clock information into the key derivation process. Keys can be regenerated at any time by simply updating the clock information input, allowing frequent key changes without manual redistribution. The system adapts dynamically to time-based requirements while maintaining automated operation.
Solution Approach 2:
Device information and clock synchronization mechanisms are established in advance before key generation is needed. This preliminary setup enables devices to autonomously generate updated encryption keys at any time without requiring external intervention or manual redistribution, preparing the system beforehand for frequent key changes.
Data Source
AI summary
A communication device according to the present invention includes: a memory; and at least one processor coupled to the memory. The processor performs operations. The operations includes: storing device information that is information stored commonly in one or more communication devices; generating clock information representing timing by using a periodic clock signal; selecting at least a part of the device information according to the clock information; generating selection information that is different information for each piece of the clock information from at least a part of the device information selected; generating an encryption key by using at least the clock information and the selection information generated; and executing at least one of encryption processing and decryption processing on communication data by using the encryption key generated.