IP Enforcer Block for FPGA Licensing Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing integrated circuit technologies lack effective methods to control and enforce the use of intellectual property (IP) on a per-device basis, leading to issues such as piracy and overbuilding, as they do not bind licenses to individual devices and provide autonomous enforcement.
Innovation Solution
A method for controlling IP in field programmable gate arrays (FPGAs) involves loading a design file with a controlled IP circuit block, determining authorization within the FPGA, enabling operation if authorized, and imposing penalties if unauthorized, using an IP enforcer block that includes a unique chip ID and cryptographic protocols to verify and enforce licensing terms.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If IP is made accessible and usable in integrated circuit devices, then the functionality and value of the devices are improved, but the risk of piracy and unauthorized use increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by embedding authorization verification logic and unique device identifiers into the integrated circuit device before IP is loaded. The device automatically performs authorization checks before allowing IP execution, preventing piracy before it can occur. This is achieved through pre-configured security modules that verify license validity and device authorization status.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary authorization management system that acts as a mediator between IP providers and device users. This system includes license servers, verification modules, and cryptographic authentication mechanisms that enable controlled IP distribution. The intermediary enforces licensing terms, tracks device usage, and prevents unauthorized copying while maintaining legitimate IP utilization.
2Reliability
If authorization verification is implemented for IP use, then IP security and licensing control are improved, but the device complexity and operational overhead increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the complex authorization verification logic into separate, dedicated security modules or co-processors within the integrated circuit device. By isolating the verification functionality from the main processing units, the patent reduces the complexity burden on the primary device architecture while maintaining robust IP protection. The extracted modules can be independently optimized and managed.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements self-service mechanisms where the integrated circuit device automatically performs authorization verification without requiring continuous external intervention. The device stores cryptographic keys, license information, and device identifiers locally, enabling it to autonomously validate IP authorization status. This self-service approach reduces operational overhead and simplifies the user experience while maintaining security.
3Object-affected harmful factors
If per-device IP binding is implemented, then IP piracy prevention is improved, but the manufacturing and deployment process complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs universal authorization mechanisms that can bind IP to multiple device types or families while maintaining per-device control. The authorization system uses configurable parameters such as device class identifiers, family-wide licenses, and hierarchical authorization structures. This universality allows a single licensing framework to manage IP across diverse device portfolios, simplifying manufacturing and deployment processes.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes parameter changes in device identifiers and authorization tokens to enable flexible IP binding without requiring physical device customization. By varying cryptographic parameters, device serial numbers, or configuration bits, the system can uniquely identify and authorize each device while maintaining standardized manufacturing processes. This approach allows mass production of devices with inherent authorization capabilities.
Data Source
AI summary
A method for controlling the use of intellectual property (IP) in an individual integrated circuit includes loading data including the IP into the individual integrated circuit, loading an IP license certificate into the individual integrated circuit, the certificate including identification of the IP authorized for the individual integrated circuit, determining inside the individual integrated circuit whether the IP is authorized for the individual integrated circuit, enabling operation of the individual integrated circuit if the IP circuit is authorized for use in the individual integrated circuit, and imposing a penalty on operation of the individual integrated circuit if the IP is not authorized for use in the individual integrated circuit.