Non-Volatile Storage Alteration Tracking via NEOTP Log
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Solution Overview
Problem
There is a need for effective alteration tracking in non-volatile storage to prevent unauthorized modifications, which can lead to adverse consequences such as damage to vehicles or unauthorized access to electronic devices.
Innovation Solution
A method is provided to track alterations in non-volatile storage using a non-erasable one-time programmable (NEOTP) alteration log region, where requests to modify or erase tracked regions are only allowed if the log region has been properly modified, ensuring that unauthorized changes can be detected and prevented.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If unauthorized modification of non-volatile storage is allowed, then adaptability and ease of operation are improved, but reliability and security are worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a preliminary action by requiring that an alteration log region be programmed with authorization information before any modification to the tracked region can occur. The system checks whether the alteration log has been properly programmed as a prerequisite condition, preventing unauthorized modifications while allowing legitimate changes when proper authorization is established in advance.
2Reliability
If alteration tracking is implemented, then reliability is improved, but device complexity is worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the non-volatile storage into distinct functional regions: a tracked region for storing configuration or security information, and a separate alteration log region for recording modification events. This segmentation allows the system to track changes independently without complicating the overall storage structure, maintaining reliability while managing complexity through functional separation.
Solution Approach 2:
The alteration log region serves as an intermediary between the tracked region and the control logic. It records modification events and provides verification information that mediates whether subsequent access or modification requests should be granted. This intermediary structure simplifies the control mechanism by offloading the tracking function to a dedicated log region rather than requiring complex embedded verification logic.
3Reliability
If modification requests are restricted, then reliability is improved, but ease of operation is worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a feedback mechanism where the system automatically checks the alteration log region to verify whether proper authorization exists before allowing modification of the tracked region. This automated feedback loop provides clear guidance on whether a modification request should be granted, simplifying the operation for authorized users while maintaining strong protection against unauthorized access without requiring complex manual verification procedures.
Data Source
AI summary
A method for tracking alteration of a non-volatile storage includes receiving a request to modify a tracked region of the non-volatile storage. In response to the request, it is determined whether or not a modification of data stored in a non-erasable one-time programmable (NEOTP) alteration log region has occurred. In response to determining that the modification of the data stored in the NEOTP alteration log region has occurred, the tracked region of non-volatile storage is modified in response to the request. In response to determining that the modification of the data stored in the NEOTP alteration log region has not occurred, the request to modify the tracked region of the non-volatile memory is denied.