Electronic Device Data Theft Protection via Logic Level Monitoring
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Solution Overview
Problem
Electronic devices face challenges in protecting against data theft by disassembly, as existing solutions fail to effectively prevent unauthorized access to sensitive data stored in data circuits.
Innovation Solution
The electronic device incorporates a copper foil with multiple GPIOs connected to a logic level generator and a detecting unit, which monitors the logic level signals and determines if the device is disassembled by comparing original and real-time signals, triggering a shutdown to prevent data access.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If the device structure is made simple and accessible, then ease of manufacture and operation are improved, but vulnerability to disassembly and data theft increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements preliminary action by pre-configuring multiple GPIOs with specific logic level requirements before the device is put into use. The system establishes a baseline logical state that must be maintained for normal operation, and automatically detects any deviations caused by disassembly attempts. This preventive approach ensures data protection is built into the device architecture from the outset, rather than added as an afterthought.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary detection mechanism that acts as a mediator between the physical structure of the device and the data protection system. The multiple GPIOs serve as intermediaries that monitor the logical state of the device, translating physical integrity into electrical signals that the control system can interpret. This intermediary layer enables indirect detection of disassembly attempts without requiring direct physical sensors.
2Reliability
If multiple GPIOs and detection units are added to the device, then data protection capability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies universality by designing a multi-functional system where the same GPIOs and detection units serve multiple purposes. The detection units monitor both the logical states of multiple GPIOs and the overall integrity of the device structure simultaneously. The control system integrates both data protection decisions and operational control into a single unified mechanism, reducing the need for separate dedicated components for each function.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges the data protection function with the existing operational control system. Instead of creating a completely separate protection subsystem, the invention integrates the detection units and control logic into the device's existing architecture. The same control unit that manages normal device operations also handles security decisions, combining multiple functions into a single integrated system that reduces overall complexity.
Data Source
AI summary
An electronic device includes a washer, a printed circuit board, and a screw. The printed circuit board includes a copper foil, a detecting unit and a processing unit. The copper foil comprises a plurality of electrical signal interfaces surrounding a first via defined in the copper foil. The washer defines a second via and includes a transmission metal. The screw combines the printed circuit board and the washer through the second via and the first via. The detecting unit stores an original logic level signal, and detects logic level signals of the electrical signal interfaces in real-time. The processing unit compares the original logic level signal and the detected logic level signal, to determine whether the electronic device is disassembled. If the electronic device is disassembled, the electronic device stops working.