PRNG Tap Collision Detection via Delayed Sampling
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for detecting unintended dependencies in pseudo-random number generators (PRNGs) using linear feedback shift registers (LFSRs) are manual, error-prone, and prone to overdesigning, leading to increased chip costs, power consumption, and potential functional bugs due to deterministic behavior caused by temporal alignment effects.
Innovation Solution
A systematic method and system for detecting unintended dependencies in PRNGs by identifying tap points, sampling with different delays, defining observation points, and eliminating uninteresting collisions, utilizing formal verification algorithms to automatically detect and filter out deterministic behavior, thereby optimizing chip area, power, and cost.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If manual visual inspection methods are used to detect unintended dependencies in PRNGs, then detection capability is provided, but the process is error-prone and prone to overdesigning, leading to increased chip costs and power consumption
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs self-verification by automatically analyzing its own PRNG design for unintended dependencies using formal verification algorithms, eliminating the need for external manual inspection and preventing overdesign
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces manual visual inspection with automated formal verification algorithms that systematically analyze the design, substituting human effort with computational methods to achieve higher precision without increasing chip complexity
2Reliability
If manual detection methods are used, then detection capability is provided, but the process is time-consuming and less reliable
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual detection processes with automated formal verification algorithms, substituting human time investment with computational automation to achieve both higher reliability and faster detection
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements automated feedback loops where the formal verification algorithm continuously analyzes the PRNG design, identifies dependencies, and refines the verification process, improving both reliability and efficiency through systematic self-correction
3Device complexity
If temporal alignment effects are not addressed, then design simplicity is maintained, but deterministic behavior occurs causing functional bugs
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary anti-action by proactively identifying and eliminating temporal alignment effects during the design verification phase, preventing deterministic behavior and functional bugs before they can manifest in the actual hardware
Solution Approach 2:
The system substitutes manual temporal alignment analysis with automated formal verification that systematically detects deterministic behavior patterns, achieving higher functional correctness without significantly increasing design complexity
Data Source
AI summary
A method, a computer system, and a computer program product for detection of unintended dependencies between hardware design signals from pseudo-random number generator (PRNG) taps is provided. Embodiments of the present invention may include identifying one or more tap points in a design as an execution sequence. Embodiments of the present invention may include sampling the tap points by propagating the tap points in the design with different delays. Embodiments of the present invention may include defining observation points to identify tap collisions based on the tap points. Embodiments of the present invention may include identifying tap collisions. Embodiments of the present invention may include identifying one or more sources of the tap collisions in the design. Embodiments of the present invention may include eliminating the one or more sources of uninteresting tap collisions out of the tap collisions and filtering one or more of the tap collisions.