Microcontroller Data Scrambling Using Device-Specific Transformation Matrices
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current encryption methods for microcontrollers are vulnerable once the encryption algorithm is cracked, leading to security risks for all devices using the same algorithm.
Innovation Solution
A microcontroller with a processing circuit, storage circuit, and data scrambling circuit generates a transformation matrix based on unique characteristic parameters and random-number values to encrypt and decrypt data, ensuring each microcontroller has a dedicated encryption method.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a common encryption algorithm is used for data transmission, then data can be encrypted to prevent malicious monitoring, but once the algorithm is cracked, all devices using this algorithm will have security risks
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by making each microcontroller have its own unique encryption characteristics through individual characteristic parameters (such as device ID, serial number, or manufacturing-specific values). This means that while the basic encryption framework is common, the actual encryption key or transformation matrix is localized to each device, ensuring that cracking one device's encryption does not compromise others.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes parameters by introducing dynamic characteristic parameters that vary between devices and potentially over time. The encryption algorithm uses these parameter values to generate unique transformation matrices or keys for each microcontroller, transforming a static common algorithm into a dynamic device-specific encryption system that maintains reliability while achieving adaptability.
2Reliability
If data is encrypted using a transformation matrix generated from characteristic parameters, then each microcontroller has dedicated encryption method, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies self-service by enabling the microcontroller to automatically generate its own transformation matrix using its intrinsic characteristic parameters. The device uses its own unique identifiers or hardware-specific values to create the encryption key, eliminating the need for external key distribution or complex key management infrastructure. This reduces overall system complexity while maintaining strong firmware protection.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies preliminary action by pre-configuring characteristic parameters in the microcontroller during manufacturing, before the device is deployed. These pre-set parameters are then used to generate the transformation matrix, so the encryption capability is prepared in advance without requiring complex runtime key generation or external intervention, thereby reducing operational complexity.
Data Source
AI summary
A microcontroller, an electronic device, and a method for encrypting transmission data using the same are provided. The microcontroller includes a processing circuit, a storage circuit, and a data scrambling circuit. The processing circuit is arranged to access a raw data to control the operation of the microcontroller. The storage circuit is coupled to the processing circuit and configured to store a characteristic parameter of the microcontroller. The data scrambling circuit is coupled to the storage circuit and the processing circuit, and arranged to generate a transformation matrix according to at least one of the characteristic parameters and a random-number value. When the microcontroller sends data, the data scrambling circuit swaps the bit addresses of a plurality of data units in the raw data, to convert the raw data into a scramble data.