Pixel Circuit PUF-ID Generation for Component Authentication
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Solution Overview
Problem
The increasing problem of counterfeit electronic components and systems, which can be mitigated by developing a detection device capable of generating imaging data using a Physical Unclonable Function (PUF) to authenticate components.
Innovation Solution
A detection device comprising a solid-state imaging device with a pixel circuit that includes a photo diode connected to a gate electrode of a transistor, and a control circuit that controls the pixel's operation through reset, exposure, and read-out periods, generating PUF-ID data and detection data to authenticate components.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If encryption technology using a secret key is used to prevent counterfeit products, then security is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses the imaging device's own inherent physical characteristics (pixel defects, manufacturing variations) to generate PUF-ID data, eliminating the need for external secret keys or complex encryption infrastructure. The device authenticates itself through its unique physical fingerprint rather than requiring complex cryptographic protocols
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces complex cryptographic mechanical systems (encryption algorithms, key management infrastructure) with a simpler physical measurement system that captures inherent electrical characteristics of pixels. This substitution reduces device complexity while maintaining security through the uniqueness and unclonability of physical characteristics
2Manufacturing precision
If PUF technology is implemented using photo diodes and transistors, then manufacturing precision is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The pixel circuit structure serves dual purposes: it performs standard imaging functions while simultaneously enabling PUF-ID generation through the same photo diode and transistor components. The gate electrode of the first transistor serves both as a control element for signal readout and as a sensing element for detecting voltage associated with physical characteristics, eliminating the need for separate PUF hardware
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges the PUF sensing function with the existing imaging pixel circuitry. The photo diode, transistor, and read-out signal line are used for both conventional image capture and for generating unique PUF-ID data, reducing overall device complexity by consolidating functions into a single integrated structure
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 device effectively suppresses the production of counterfeit products by generating unique PUF-ID data and detection data, thereby authenticating electronic components and preventing counterfeiting.
Implementation Method 1
a first electrode of a photo diode connected to a gate electrode of a first transistor
Data Source
AI summary
A detection device includes a pixel including a photodiode connected to a gate electrode of a first transistor, and a control circuit configured to control an operation of the pixel in a reset period (including a first and a second periods) for resetting the gate electrode, an exposure period for exposing the photo diode, and a read-out period (a fourth period) to read out a voltage associated with the exposure of the photodiode. The control circuit is configured to read out a first voltage during the first period, read out a second voltage during the second period after stopping a supply of a reset voltage to the gate electrode, read out a third voltage in the fourth period after the exposure period, output a difference value between the first and the second voltages as PUF-ID data and a difference value between the third and the second voltages as detection data.