Light-Sensitive Switch for Semiconductor Tamper Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
The increasing sophistication of counterfeit semiconductor components makes it difficult to detect tampering by visual inspection, as counterfeiters can replicate components with accurate dimensions and packaging, necessitating a tampering detection system that goes beyond surface aesthetics and requires higher technical sophistication to avoid detection.
Innovation Solution
A light-sensitive circuit with a MEMS switch and photovoltaic cells is integrated into the semiconductor package, which activates and permanently changes electrical properties when exposed to light, indicating tampering, and can be connected to a passive RF tag for detection.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If visual inspection is used to detect tampering, then detection simplicity is maintained, but detection reliability deteriorates due to sophisticated counterfeit replication
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces visual inspection (mechanical/optical detection) with a light-sensitive electrical circuit that detects tampering through electrical property changes. The circuit uses photovoltaic cells and diodes to convert light exposure into electrical signals, providing reliable automated detection without requiring sophisticated visual examination.
Solution Approach 2:
The light-sensitive circuit automatically detects tampering without external intervention. When exposed to light, the circuit self-activates and generates an electrical signal indicating tampering, eliminating the need for manual inspection while maintaining detection simplicity.
2Reliability
If a light-sensitive circuit is integrated into the semiconductor package, then tamper detection reliability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the light-sensitive detection circuit with the existing semiconductor package structure. The circuit is integrated into the package casing, utilizing the same manufacturing processes and materials, thereby adding tamper detection functionality without significantly increasing overall device complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The light-sensitive circuit serves multiple functions: it acts as both a structural component of the package and a tamper detection sensor. The same circuit elements (photovoltaic cells, diodes, resistors) that would normally be considered additional components also serve to monitor package integrity, reducing the net increase in complexity.
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 solution effectively prevents counterfeit components from functioning properly by altering the integrated circuit's operating parameters upon tampering, providing a robust and difficult-to-duplicate detection mechanism that increases the technical barrier for counterfeiters.
Implementation Method 1
a plurality of photovoltaic cells arranged in a series configuration
Implementation Method 2
implanting ions defined by photoresist to form at least one PIN junction on the plurality of silicon planks
Data Source
AI summary
Embodiments relate to the detection of semiconductor tampering with a light-sensitive circuit. A tamper detection device for an integrated circuit includes a light-sensitive circuit disposed within a package of an integrated circuit. The light-sensitive circuit closes in response to an exposure to a light source, indicating a tamper condition.