Hardware-Multiplexed Encryption Circuit for Secure Key Storage
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing encryption and decryption circuits for the Internet of Things require complex key management and storage, leading to high hardware overheads and security vulnerabilities.
Innovation Solution
A low-overhead encryption and decryption circuit based on hardware multiplexing, utilizing a secure storage array, timing control module, key row, sensitive amplifier array, inverter array, on-off control array, and refresh circuits to perform encryption and decryption operations efficiently.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If AES encryption and decryption circuit structure is adopted, then encryption and decryption functions are achieved, but hardware overheads increase due to additional XOR hardware modules and complex key management requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the key storage function into the secure storage array that already stores plaintext data. The secure storage array is configured to store both plaintext data and encryption keys, eliminating the need for separate key storage hardware modules. This consolidation reduces overall hardware overhead while maintaining security through the array's inherent secure characteristics.
Solution Approach 2:
The secure storage array is designed to perform multiple functions: storing plaintext data, storing encryption keys, and providing secure access to both. This multi-functional design eliminates the need for dedicated key storage modules and reduces hardware overhead while maintaining the security requirements for key management.
2Reliability
If separate key storage and management system is implemented, then key security is improved, but device complexity and hardware overhead increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines key storage with data storage in a single secure storage array. The array stores both plaintext and encryption keys securely, eliminating the need for separate key management hardware. This approach maintains key security through the array's secure characteristics while significantly reducing device complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The secure storage array provides self-service key management capabilities by inherently providing secure storage and controlled access to encryption keys. The array's design includes built-in security mechanisms that automatically protect keys without requiring additional external key management systems, thereby reducing hardware overhead while maintaining security.
Data Source
AI summary
A low-overhead encryption and decryption circuit based on hardware multiplexing includes a secure storage array, a timing control module, a key row, a sensitive amplifier array, an inverter array, an on-off control array, a write circuit and two refresh circuits. The secure storage array is configured to store data to be encrypted, XOR data and decrypted data and encrypt and decrypt data, and is realized based on the hardware multiplexing technique, thereby reducing hardware overheads; the key row, when needed to generate keys, generates the keys under the control of the timing control circuit and when not used, is controlled by the timing control circuit to be powered off and reset, and the key row adopts a dynamic key generation technique and avoids the unsecure behavior of key storage, thereby having high security.