Mobile Quantum Key Distribution Device for Secure Remote Key Exchange

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Solution Overview

Problem

Traditional Quantum Key Distribution (QKD) systems require dedicated equipment and clear channels, making them impractical for remote key exchange, and Key Loading Devices (KLDs) are expensive and risky for transporting cryptographic keys, necessitating a more efficient and secure method for secret key distribution.

Innovation Solution

A portable Mobile Quantum Key Distribution (MQKD) device generates and injects entangled particles into multiple devices, allowing each device and a host to establish a unique secure key, with the MQKD device capable of distinguishing between quantum-enabled and non-enabled devices and generating secure keys for the latter, facilitating secure communication.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If traditional QKD systems use dedicated equipment and clear channels, then security is improved, but device complexity and ease of operation deteriorate

Engineering Contradiction:
ImprovesecurityVSAvoiddevice complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent introduces a mobile quantum key distribution device as an intermediary that can be physically transported between locations to establish quantum entangled particle connections. This mediator enables secure key exchange between remote devices without requiring permanent dedicated QKD infrastructure, thereby reducing device complexity while maintaining security through the use of quantum entanglement principles

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Adaptability or versatility

If Key Loading Devices are used to transport cryptographic keys, then key distribution capability is improved, but cost and security risk worsen

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvekey distribution capabilityVSAvoidsecurity risk
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces the mechanical key transport system (physical KLD devices that can be stolen or compromised) with a quantum mechanical system. By using quantum entangled particles to distribute keys, the system eliminates the need for physical key transport, thereby removing the security risks associated with KLD theft or compromise while maintaining the ability to distribute keys to remote locations

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

3Reliability

If quantum entangled particles are used for key distribution, then security is improved, but ease of operation worsens due to specialized equipment requirements

Engineering Contradiction:
ImprovesecurityVSAvoidease of operation
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The mobile quantum key distribution device is designed with multi-functionality to operate with both quantum-enabled devices and legacy devices. It can generate and distribute quantum entangled particles to quantum-capable devices while also being able to interface with non-quantum devices through appropriate protocols, thereby enhancing ease of operation and interoperability without sacrificing the security benefits of quantum key distribution

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

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 MQKD device enables efficient and secure key exchange across remote locations, reducing the risk of key compromise and providing high-grade security while maintaining legacy interoperability, thus overcoming the limitations of traditional QKD and KLD methods.

Implementation Method 1

generates and injects entangled particles into multiple devices, allowing each device and a host to establish a unique secure key

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectQuantum entanglement:

Data Source

PatentUS12200114B1Systems and methods for mobile quantum key distribution
Publication Date: 2025.01.14 WELLS FARGO BANK NA
  • US12200114B1 patent drawing
  • US12200114B1 patent drawing
  • US12200114B1 patent drawing

AI summary

Systems, apparatuses, methods, and computer program products are disclosed for mobile quantum key distribution (MQKD). An example method includes establishing a first connection between a MQKD device and a first device. The example method further includes generating a pair of entangled particles and injecting quantum data that is based on a first particle of the pair of entangled particles into the first device. The example method further includes establishing a second connection between the MQKD device and a host device and injecting quantum data that is based on a second particle of the pair of entangled particles into the host device to facilitate secure communication between the host device and the first device based at least on the pair of entangled particles.