Cryptographic Torch Authentication to Block Unauthorized Welding Use
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Solution Overview
Problem
Competitors can replicate plasma cutting and welding torches, limiting the genuine manufacturer's ability to sell consumables, as mechanical solutions fail to prevent replacement of the torch.
Innovation Solution
Integration of a cryptographic device within the torch and power source, using encryption and polynomial spline modules to authenticate the torch as a genuine manufacturer's part, ensuring the power source only operates with authorized components.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Stability of the object's composition
If mechanical solutions are used to tie consumables to the torch, then consumable attachment is improved, but the torch can still be replaced by competitors resulting in reduced consumable revenue
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces mechanical attachment solutions with a cryptographic authentication system. The torch and power source exchange cryptographic credentials (torch credential from torch, power source credential from power source) to verify genuine manufacturer status, preventing competitor torches from being used regardless of mechanical attachment methods.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces cryptographic credentials as an intermediary between the torch and power source. These credentials act as a mediator that verifies the authenticity of the torch, allowing the power source to distinguish between genuine and competitor torches without direct mechanical coupling.
2Reliability
If cryptographic authentication is implemented, then genuine manufacturer protection is improved, but device complexity increases due to cryptographic devices and communication protocols
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs cryptographic credential exchange in advance before the welding or cutting operation begins. The torch provides its credential to the power source, which verifies it against stored credentials, establishing authentication before the actual welding/cutting function is activated.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent extracts the cryptographic verification function into a separate credential exchange process. The core welding or cutting functionality remains separate from the authentication mechanism, allowing the cryptographic system to be added without fundamentally redesigning the main welding/cutting apparatus.
Data Source
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AI summary
Embodiments of welding or cutting system (400) comprising a torch (100) are disclosed. A welding or cutting system (400) includes a power source (401) to provide electrical power for a welding or cutting process. The system (400) includes a torch (100) having a cryptographic device (110), and is to be used with the power source (401) during the process and communicate with the power source (401). The cryptographic device (110) is configured to receive an encryption key seeded by the power source (401) during first time power-on initialization of the welding power source (401) or after the torch (100) is replaced. The cryptographic device (110) is configured to store an unlock code associated with the power source (401), generate an encrypted message, which includes the unlock code, based on the encryption key, and communicate the encrypted message to the power source (401). The power source (401) is configured to cease further operation unless the power source (401) determines the torch (100) to be a genuine manufacturer torch (100) based on the unlock code.