Memory Seed Generation via Random Defect Identification
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing memory systems face challenges in generating unique seed values for random number generation, leading to potential repeatability issues that can be exploited by cryptanalysis, often requiring additional hardware to ensure randomness.
Innovation Solution
A memory system that identifies random defects or inherent characteristics in memory dies to generate seed values, using these defects to create unique random strings, seed vectors, and ultimately random numbers without the need for additional hardware, by employing modules for defect identification and seed value generation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If memory systems use the same algorithm for generating random numbers, then the implementation is simple and consistent, but the likelihood of generating the same random number increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by maintaining a consistent random number generation algorithm across all memory systems while introducing local variation through device-specific seed values. Each memory system uses the same algorithm but with unique seeds derived from individual device characteristics, ensuring both implementation simplicity and random number uniqueness.
2Reliability
If memory systems use additional hardware to ensure randomness, then the security and uniqueness of random numbers is improved, but the device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies self-service by enabling memory systems to generate unique seed values using their own inherent characteristics without requiring external or additional hardware. The system utilizes its existing device ID, manufacturing variations, or operational parameters to self-generate the seed, eliminating the need for separate hardware random number generators while maintaining security and uniqueness.
3Device complexity
If memory systems use existing device characteristics to generate seed values, then the device complexity is reduced, but the uniqueness and non-repeatability of seed values may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies parameter changes by transforming existing device characteristics into unique seed values through cryptographic hashing and concatenation operations. By combining multiple device-specific parameters (device ID, manufacturing variations, operational parameters) and processing them through hash functions, the system ensures that even small differences in input parameters result in significantly different and unique seed values.
Data Source
AI summary
A memory system and method are provided for generating a seed value. In one embodiment, a memory system identifies a random defect in a memory die and, in accordance with the identified random defect in the memory die, generates a seed value, wherein with the generated seed value a random number can be generated. Other embodiments are provided, which can be used alone or in combination with one another.