PUF Entropy Pool Random Code Generator Security
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing PUF technology random code generators can be vulnerable to direct reading of recorded contents from the PUF cell array, allowing unauthorized access to the unique identity code and potentially leading to data theft in semiconductor chips.
Innovation Solution
A random code generator design incorporating an address Y decoder, an address X decoder, a PUF entropy pool, a processing circuit, and an entropy key storage circuit, where the PUF entropy pool generates output data based on activated control lines, and the processing circuit processes this data into a random code using entropy keys, making it difficult to crack the generated random code.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the PUF entropy pool directly outputs recorded contents as random code, then the generation process is simple and fast, but the security is compromised because the unique identity code can be directly read and stolen
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a processing circuit as an intermediary between the PUF entropy pool and the output. This processing circuit contains a random code generation unit that receives the output data from the PUF entropy pool and processes it through multiple stages (including mixing units and selection units) to generate the final random code. This intermediary structure prevents direct reading of the entropy pool contents while maintaining security.
Solution Approach 2:
The random code generation process is divided into multiple segmented stages within the processing circuit. The output data from the PUF entropy pool is processed through several sequential units including first mixing units, first selection units, second mixing units, and second selection units. Each stage transforms the data further, ensuring that the original entropy pool contents cannot be directly recovered from the final random code.
2Reliability
If the PUF entropy pool contents are made inaccessible through complex processing, then security is improved, but the generation speed and simplicity are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The processing circuit employs dynamic selection mechanisms where selection units randomly select between different data paths and mixing operations. The circuit dynamically adjusts its processing path based on control signals, creating a time-varying transformation process that enhances security while maintaining efficient operation through parallel processing capabilities.
Solution Approach 2:
The processing circuit changes multiple parameters during the random code generation process, including data mixing operations (XOR, AND, OR), selection criteria, and processing stages. These parameter changes create a complex transformation that secures the entropy pool contents while the overall process remains optimized for speed through efficient logic circuit design.
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2A~2C
Figure 2D~3A
AI summary
A random code generator includes an address Y decoder, an address X decoder, a PUF entropy pool, a processing circuit and an entropy key storage circuit. The address Y decoder includes plural Y control lines. The address Y decoder selectively activates the plural Y control lines according to a first address Y signal. The address X decoder includes plural X control lines. The address X decoder selectively activates the plural X control lines according to a first address X signal. The PUF entropy pool generates an output data according to the activated Y control lines and the activated X control lines. When the random code generator is in a normal working state, the processing circuit processes the output data into a random code according to at least one entropy key from the entropy key storage circuit.