Memory Controller Key Generation Using Nonvolatile Memory Health Data
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing memory systems face challenges in securely encrypting data, as third parties can potentially detect regularities in key generation, leading to decryption of encrypted data.
Innovation Solution
A memory system that generates an encryption key using health data indicating the deterioration state of nonvolatile memory and time data, encrypts data with this key, and stores it in nonvolatile memory, making it difficult for unauthorized parties to decrypt.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If a random number generator generates a key based on a fixed rule, then the key generation process is simple and reproducible, but the key becomes predictable and vulnerable to decryption by third parties
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the dynamics principle by making the key generation process adaptive rather than static. The system dynamically selects different generation rules from a predetermined set of rules based on operational conditions, time, or other variables. This dynamic selection ensures that even if one rule is compromised, the system can switch to another rule, maintaining encryption security while keeping the generation process relatively simple.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements parameter changes by varying the generation rule parameters over time or based on conditions. Instead of using a single fixed rule, the system changes which rule from the predetermined set is applied, effectively changing the parameters of key generation. This makes prediction difficult while maintaining the simplicity of rule-based generation.
2Reliability
If a complex key generation method is used to prevent prediction, then encryption security is improved, but the key generation process becomes complicated and harder to implement
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies segmentation by dividing the key generation process into multiple independent rules, each with its own characteristics. Instead of using one complex unpredictable algorithm, the system uses multiple simpler rules that can be selected and combined. This segmentation allows the system to maintain security through diversity of rules while keeping each individual rule simple and manageable.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements universality by creating a multi-functional key generation system where a single framework can execute multiple different generation rules. The predetermined set of rules serves as a universal toolkit that can be applied in various situations, making the system versatile without requiring separate complex systems for each key generation scenario.
Data Source
AI summary
A memory system includes a nonvolatile memory and a controller. The controller is configured to generate an encryption key using health data indicating a deterioration state of the nonvolatile memory and time data, encrypt data with the generated encryption key, and write the encrypted data into the nonvolatile memory. The health data may include a total size of data that has been written into the nonvolatile memory or a total size of data that has been read from the nonvolatile memory.