Motor Current Entropy for Secure Random Number Generation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Many embedded systems lack a reliable source of high entropy events for random number generation, and existing systems are vulnerable to compromise, particularly in generating encryption keys.
Innovation Solution
A system that utilizes the varying current draw of an electric motor, measured by an analog-to-digital converter, to generate high-quality random numbers, incorporating an anti-tamper mechanism to ensure the motor's operation is secure and not compromised, thereby producing unpredictable and secure random numbers.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a pseudorandom number generator (PRNG) is used to generate random numbers, then the system can produce random numbers using mathematical formulas or pre-calculated lists, but the randomness quality and security are insufficient for cryptographic applications
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary component (the motor current measurement system) that bridges the gap between deterministic system operations and true randomness requirements. The ADC measures motor current variations caused by mechanical load changes, providing an intermediary source of entropy that feeds into the random number generation process, thereby improving randomness quality without requiring complex external hardware
Solution Approach 2:
The system utilizes its own operational characteristics (motor current variations during normal operation) to generate random numbers. The motor's natural current fluctuations during startup, acceleration, and steady-state operation serve as the entropy source, allowing the system to self-generate high-quality random numbers without external entropy sources or additional complexity
2Reliability
If external sources are used for random number generation, then high entropy events can be obtained, but the sources are easily compromised and lack security
Solution Approach 1:
The system turns its own operational characteristics into a security resource by measuring motor current variations during normal operation. This self-service approach eliminates dependency on external entropy sources that could be compromised, while the motor's inherent mechanical variations provide sufficient entropy for cryptographic applications
Solution Approach 2:
The patent converts what could be considered inefficiency or noise (motor current variations and fluctuations) into a beneficial security resource. The irregular current draw patterns, which represent non-ideal motor operation, are transformed into high-quality entropy for random number generation, improving security without requiring additional components
3Reliability
If the system uses motor current measurements for random number generation, then high-quality random numbers can be produced, but the system becomes vulnerable to tampering attacks
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements preliminary anti-action by incorporating an anti-tamper mechanism that proactively detects and responds to potential compromise attempts. The system monitors motor operation parameters and compares them against expected ranges, preventing tampered random numbers from being generated even if an attacker attempts to manipulate the motor or measurement system
Solution Approach 2:
The system employs feedback mechanisms to continuously monitor motor current measurements and validate their authenticity. By comparing measured values against expected operational ranges and patterns, the system receives feedback about potential tampering attempts and can reject compromised measurements, thereby maintaining randomness quality while defending against attacks
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
This approach provides a secure and reliable method for generating high-quality random numbers, resistant to tampering, suitable for cryptographic key generation and other secure data exchanges.
Implementation Method 1
A system that utilizes the varying current draw of an electric motor, measured by an analog-to-digital converter
Data Source
AI summary
A system, method and apparatus for generating random numbers. An electronic device operates an electric motor to drive a mechanical device. The electronic device includes a processing device structured to take one or more current measurements of the electric motor. The processing device is also structured to generate a seed and/or a random number based on at least one of the current measurements of the electric motor.