Quantum Key Distribution Relay Node Segmentation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current quantum key distribution methods face security challenges due to the decryption of quantum keys by relay nodes, which compromises the security of the communication process.
Innovation Solution
A method and device for quantum key distribution where each node determines and generates a third quantum key based on first and second quantum keys shared with adjacent nodes, allowing secure transmission without decryption by relay nodes, thereby enhancing security and efficiency.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If relay nodes decrypt quantum keys for transmission, then the quantum key can be distributed across multiple nodes, but the security of the communication is compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the quantum key distribution process by introducing multiple relay nodes that each hold only partial key information. Instead of one node possessing the complete key, the key is divided into segments distributed across multiple nodes, so that no single node can decrypt the full key independently, thereby maintaining security while enabling multi-node distribution.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces trusted relay nodes as intermediaries that facilitate key distribution without possessing the ability to decrypt the final key. These intermediary nodes perform quantum operations and classical communication to enable key exchange between distant parties while maintaining security through quantum mechanical principles rather than classical decryption.
2Adaptability or versatility
If relay nodes decrypt and re-encrypt quantum keys, then key transmission can occur through multiple hops, but resource consumption increases and security decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the decryption function from the relay nodes entirely. Instead of relay nodes decrypting and re-encrypting keys, the system uses quantum key distribution protocols where the key material is generated and distributed through quantum channels without requiring intermediate decryption operations, thereby reducing resource consumption while maintaining routing flexibility.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the classical mechanical approach of decrypting and re-encrypting at each relay node with a quantum mechanical approach. Quantum key distribution uses quantum states and entanglement to enable secure key exchange without intermediate decryption, substituting quantum operations for classical cryptographic operations and reducing computational resource consumption.
3Productivity
If relay nodes store and process quantum keys, then key distribution can be achieved, but the risk of eavesdropping and security breaches increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the fundamental parameter of key storage from classical to quantum states. By using quantum key distribution, the key material exists in quantum states that are fundamentally secure against eavesdropping due to the no-cloning theorem and quantum measurement collapse. This parameter change eliminates the security vulnerability of storing keys in classical memory at relay nodes while maintaining distribution efficiency.
Data Source
AI summary
This application provide quantum key distribution methods, devices, and storage media. In an implementation, a method comprises: determining, based on a first mapping, a first quantum key of N first quantum keys corresponding to an ith node on a target routing path; determining, based on a second mapping, a second quantum key of N second quantum keys corresponding to the ith node; and generating, by the ith node based on the first quantum key corresponding to the ith node and the second quantum key corresponding to the ith node, a third quantum key corresponding to the ith node on the target routing path.