PUF Security Key Circuit With Randomized Selection Timing

The patent applies dynamics by making the PUF cell selection timing variable rather than fixed. The selection signal generator dynamically selects different PUF cells at different random time points, causing the power consumption pattern to change continuously. This dynamic selection process prevents attackers from predicting power consumption patterns at specific time points, thereby enhancing security against side-channel attacks while maintaining operational simplicity through the use of random number generators and basic selection logic.

The patent applies parameter changes by modifying the power consumption and hamming weight parameters of the PUF output through conversion circuits. These circuits transform the raw PUF cell output into a standardized form with uniform power consumption characteristics and consistent hamming weight. By changing these physical parameters, the system eliminates side-channel leakage that would otherwise reveal information about the PUF operation, thereby enhancing security without requiring fundamentally new circuit architectures.

The patent applies segmentation by dividing the PUF system into multiple independent PUF blocks, each capable of generating its own output. This segmentation allows the system to select from multiple independent sources, making it more resistant to fault injection attacks since an attacker would need to compromise multiple separate blocks simultaneously. The modular structure enables selective activation of blocks, allowing the system to balance security requirements with power consumption by activating only the necessary number of blocks.