Encrypted IP Core Simulation Model with Diagnostic Probes
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Solution Overview
Problem
Circuit designers face challenges in analyzing simulation failures within encrypted IP cores due to lack of signal tracing capabilities, requiring support from IP core vendors and potentially compromising design confidentiality.
Innovation Solution
An encrypted simulation model with probes that can be activated based on a debug option, collecting data, performing smart diagnosis using set rules, and generating feedback messages to identify and correct issues.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If simulation models of IP cores are encrypted to protect intellectual property, then security and confidentiality are improved, but the ability to trace signals and diagnose simulation failures deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary decryption mechanism that selectively decrypts specific portions of the encrypted simulation model during debugging operations. This intermediary layer allows signal tracing and diagnosis capabilities to function when needed, while the overall model remains encrypted for security. The decryption is controlled and temporary, enabling diagnosis without permanently compromising security.
2Loss of information
If encrypted simulation models are used to protect IP core confidentiality, then design confidentiality is improved, but the ability to perform self-diagnosis and reduce vendor reliance deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent enables the encrypted simulation model to perform self-diagnosis through integrated debugging functionality. The model includes embedded mechanisms that allow it to automatically trace signals, identify simulation failures, and provide diagnostic information without requiring external vendor intervention. This self-service capability maintains confidentiality while improving ease of operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements feedback mechanisms within the encrypted simulation model that provide diagnostic information back to the designer. When simulation failures occur, the system automatically generates feedback about the nature and location of errors, enabling designers to diagnose and correct issues independently while the model remains encrypted.
3Difficulty of detecting and measuring
If probes are activated in encrypted simulation models for debugging, then diagnostic capability is improved, but the complexity of managing probe activation and decryption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent prepares the encrypted simulation model in advance by pre-configuring probe locations and decryption mechanisms. During debugging, probes can be activated without complex setup because the decryption infrastructure is already in place. This preliminary preparation reduces the complexity of probe management during actual debugging operations.
Data Source
AI summary
The present embodiments relate to methods for simulating the behavior of an IP core that has an encrypted simulation model. The encrypted simulation model of the IP core may include a plurality of probes, which a debug option may activate selectively, if desired. The encrypted simulation model may collect data during a simulation as selected by the activated probes of the plurality of probes. The encrypted simulation model may perform smart diagnosis of the collected data based on a set of rules and generate feedback messages that may suggest corrective action in the event of a simulation failure.