Fibrous PUF ID Reader Using Incoherent Light Patterns

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing PUF devices require complex and large-scale imaging systems using coherent light, which are costly and inefficient for encryption purposes.

Innovation Solution

A PUF ID system utilizing a random fibrous medium, such as cocoon film, with entangled fibers, and incoherent light sources to create a simple and cost-effective setup for generating unique encryption patterns through diffraction and interference.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If a coherent light source (laser) is used to obtain speckle patterns, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity and cost increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemeasurement precisionVSAvoiddevice complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces expensive, complex coherent light sources (lasers) with inexpensive, simple incoherent light sources such as LEDs or even ambient light. This substitution maintains the essential function of illuminating the PUF structure while dramatically reducing device complexity and cost, making PUF technology accessible for widespread deployment

Inventive Principle:
Principle #27Cheap short-living objects (Disposable)

2Measurement precision

If a complex imaging system is used to obtain speckle patterns, then measurement precision is improved, but ease of manufacture deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemeasurement precisionVSAvoidease of manufacture
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The patent extracts and eliminates the complex imaging system components from the PUF reading apparatus. By demonstrating that simple incoherent light illumination combined with basic imaging is sufficient to capture PUF responses, the invention removes unnecessary complexity and makes the system much easier to manufacture and deploy

Inventive Principle:
Principle #2Taking out (Extraction)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent substitutes expensive, complex imaging components with simple, inexpensive alternatives that are easier to manufacture. The use of standard cameras or even smartphone cameras instead of specialized imaging systems dramatically improves ease of manufacture while maintaining functionality

Inventive Principle:
Principle #27Cheap short-living objects (Disposable)

3Reliability

If coherent light sources are used, then security is improved, but cost increases

Engineering Contradiction:
ImprovesecurityVSAvoidcost
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces expensive coherent light sources with inexpensive incoherent light sources, dramatically reducing the cost of PUF-based security systems. The invention demonstrates that security relies on the inherent physical properties of the PUF structure rather than the complexity or cost of the illumination source, making secure authentication accessible to a broader range of applications

Inventive Principle:
Principle #27Cheap short-living objects (Disposable)

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

The system enables secure encryption with high contrast and random properties using a low-cost, compact setup, eliminating the need for expensive coherent lasers and complex optical systems.

Implementation Method 1

When light traveling straight is emitted to the random fibrous medium, there may be a first portion in which the light meets the fibers and a second portion in which the light does not meet the fibers

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectDiffraction: Diffraction

Implementation Method 2

A single constructive interference pattern may be formed in the Fraunhofer region

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectInterference: Interference

Data Source

PatentUS12615142B2PUF ID and PUF ID reader
Publication Date: 2026.04.28 GWANGJU INST OF SCI & TECH
  • US12615142B2 patent drawing
  • US12615142B2 patent drawing
  • US12615142B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A physically unclonable function (PUF) identifier (ID) includes a random fibrous medium and a frame configured to support the random fibrous medium. According to the present disclosure, it is possible to implement a PUF ID that is inexpensive and excellent in encryption performance, and PUF ID reader that reads the PUF ID.