QKD Node Dynamic Role Assignment for Key Request Efficiency
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional Quantum Key Distribution (QKD) network systems require pre-definition of roles for secure application entities, leading to inefficiencies in key request processing and service degradation when multiple entities are connected to a single QKD node.
Innovation Solution
A QKD node apparatus with a QKD module, quantum key synchronization management module, and quantum key orchestration module that generates and manages quantum keys and IDs in a distributed manner, allowing secure applications to request keys without pre-defined roles and enabling efficient key sharing and routing through random number-based master keys.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If pre-defined roles (master/slave) are assigned to secure application entities before key distribution, then the key request processing sequence is controlled, but the system complexity increases and service efficiency degrades when multiple entities are connected to the same QKD node
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic role assignment where secure application entities can switch between master and slave roles based on real-time communication needs. The QKD node dynamically determines the initiating entity and assigns roles accordingly, rather than requiring pre-defined static roles. This dynamic approach allows any entity to initiate key distribution at any time, eliminating the need for complex role management while maintaining reliable key request processing control.
2Reliability
If the QKD node sequentially processes key requests from multiple secure application entities, then key distribution is handled systematically, but additional key requests from other entities are blocked, degrading service efficiency
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the key distribution process into independent parallel operations for each secure application entity. Each entity maintains its own key request processing queue and can simultaneously initiate key distribution without blocking others. The QKD node manages multiple entities through separate processing threads or channels, allowing concurrent key requests to be handled independently while maintaining systematic processing control.
3Reliability
If pre-defined roles are required before entity connection, then key request sequence is controlled, but the ease of operation decreases as entities must be configured in advance
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements self-service functionality where secure application entities automatically determine their own roles and initiate key distribution requests without requiring pre-defined role assignments or manual configuration. Entities can freely connect to the QKD node and start key requests at any time, with the system automatically handling role assignment and processing control. This eliminates complex setup procedures while maintaining reliable key distribution.
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
This solution allows secure applications to initiate key requests without pre-defined roles, improving processing efficiency and maintaining key synchronization, enabling seamless cryptographic communication between entities within the QKD network.
Implementation Method 1
QKD uses the no-cloning theorem of quantum physics and the phenomenon whereby a quantum state is destroyed after it is measured
Data Source
AI summary
A quantum key distribution (QKD) node apparatus and a QKD method therein. The QKD node apparatus may include a QKD module for generating quantum keys and quantum key IDs, a quantum key synchronization management module for storing the quantum keys and the quantum key IDs as outbound and inbound quantum keys in a distributed manner and sharing the outbound and inbound quantum keys with a second QKD node apparatus, and a quantum key orchestration module for delivering a master key and a master key ID to a secure application connected therewith in response to a request for the master key with the ID of a second secure application and delivering a packet including the master key encrypted with the outbound quantum key shared with the second QKD node apparatus, the master key ID, and a quantum key ID, to the second QKD node apparatus.