Integrated Circuit Dummy Modules for Reverse Engineering Protection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for protecting integrated circuits from reverse engineering are limited by requiring conventional CMOS structures, which restrict the use of non-CMOS components and do not effectively complicate pattern recognition.
Innovation Solution
The integration of electrically inactive dummy modules around and within functional blocks, allowing for identical blocks to have different dummy environments without modifying the standard cell topology, thereby complicating pattern recognition while maintaining flexibility in design rules and placement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If conventional CMOS structures are used for input and output stages, then the integrated circuit can be fabricated with standard processes, but the use of non-CMOS components is prohibited and pattern recognition remains relatively simple
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the integrated circuit into functional blocks containing standard cells and separate dummy modules. The dummy modules are segmented and placed in neighborhoods around functional blocks, allowing independent optimization of standard cells while adding anti-reverse engineering features through the dummy module segmentation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces dummy modules as intermediary elements between functional blocks. These dummy modules serve as mediators that complicate pattern recognition without interfering with the functionality of standard cells, enabling non-CMOS components to be used in input/output stages while maintaining fabrication compatibility.
2Difficulty of detecting and measuring
If dummy modules are added to complicate pattern recognition, then reverse engineering becomes more difficult, but the circuit topology and design may be modified
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by placing dummy modules specifically in neighborhoods around functional blocks rather than uniformly throughout the circuit. This localized approach complicates pattern recognition in critical areas while maintaining the original topology and design of the functional blocks themselves.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent adds dummy modules in the spatial dimension around functional blocks without modifying the functional topology. This dimensional addition places dummy elements in the neighborhood space, complicating pattern recognition while preserving the original circuit design and avoiding topology modifications.
3Productivity
If identical functional blocks are used at different locations, then design efficiency is improved, but pattern recognition during reverse engineering becomes easier
Solution Approach 1:
The patent maintains identical functional blocks for design efficiency but applies local quality by placing different dummy module configurations in the neighborhoods of these blocks. This creates local variations that complicate pattern recognition while preserving the efficiency benefits of reusing identical functional blocks.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces asymmetry through the placement and configuration of dummy modules around identical functional blocks. While the functional blocks remain symmetric and identical for efficiency, the asymmetric dummy module arrangements in their neighborhoods create distinctive patterns that hinder reverse engineering pattern recognition.
Data Source
AI summary
An integrated circuit includes a substrate with several functional blocks formed thereon. At least two identical functional blocks are respectively disposed at two or more different locations on the integrated circuit. Electrically inactive dummy modules in the neighborhoods and/or inside of the functional blocks are provided, wherein at least two different electrically inactive dummy modules are includes in the respective neighborhoods and/or inside of the at least two identical functional blocks.