Secure Communication Bitstream Encryption Key Management

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing secure communication methods rely on servers for key distribution, risking user information leakage and compatibility issues with existing communication networks and codec algorithms during inter-terminal secure communication.

Innovation Solution

A secure communication method and apparatus that encrypts a payload region of a bitstream, inserts key information into the bitstream, and transmits it, allowing secure communication between terminals without a server, while maintaining compatibility with existing networks and codec algorithms.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If a separate server is used for key distribution and management, then secure communication can be established, but user information remains in the server creating a risk of outflow and user unease

Engineering Contradiction:
ImprovesecurityVSAvoidrisk of user information outflow
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The patent extracts the key distribution function from the server infrastructure and relocates it to the terminals themselves. Each terminal generates and manages its own encryption keys locally, eliminating the need for a centralized key distribution server. This extraction of the key management function from the server resolves the contradiction by maintaining security capabilities while removing the server as a potential vulnerability point for information outflow.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #2Taking out (Extraction)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent implements self-service key management where terminals autonomously generate, store, and manage their own encryption keys without requiring external server assistance. The terminal performs key generation, key storage, and key usage operations independently, enabling secure communication while eliminating dependency on server-based key distribution infrastructure.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

2Reliability

If the entire call packet is encrypted and transmitted, then secure communication is achieved, but compatibility with existing communication networks and codec algorithms is lost

Engineering Contradiction:
ImprovesecurityVSAvoidcompatibility with existing networks and codecs
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The patent segments the call packet into distinct components: header information and payload data. Only the payload region containing actual voice or data content is encrypted, while the header remains unencrypted to maintain compatibility with existing network protocols and codec algorithms. This selective segmentation allows secure transmission of sensitive data while preserving interoperability with legacy infrastructure.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent applies different quality characteristics to different parts of the data stream. The payload region receives encryption processing for security, while the header region maintains its original unencrypted form for protocol compatibility. This local differentiation of processing quality enables simultaneous achievement of security requirements and network compatibility.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #3Local quality

3Reliability

If key information is transmitted through a separate channel, then security is enhanced, but device complexity and protocol requirements increase

Engineering Contradiction:
ImprovesecurityVSAvoidcomplexity of key transmission system
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent merges the key information transmission with the existing data transmission channel by embedding encrypted key information within the payload region of the call packet. Instead of requiring a separate key transmission channel, the key data is combined with the voice or data payload, utilizing the existing communication infrastructure for both purposes and thereby reducing system complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The communication channel is designed to serve multiple functions simultaneously: transmitting both voice/data payload and encryption key information through the same transmission path. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for dedicated key transmission infrastructure, reducing device complexity while maintaining security through proper encryption of the key information within the payload.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Data Source

PatentEP4075719A1Secure communication method and apparatus and multimedia device employing same
Publication Date: 2022.10.19 SAMSUNG ELECTRONICS CO LTD
  • EP4075719A1 patent drawingFigure 1A~1C
  • EP4075719A1 patent drawingFigure 2~3
  • EP4075719A1 patent drawingFigure 4~5

AI summary

A secure communication apparatus may include a security module for generating an encrypted bitstream by encrypting at least a portion of data forming a bitstream and inserting at least a portion of key information used in the encryption into the bitstream and for decrypting encrypted data by acquiring at least a portion of key information for the decryption from a received encrypted bitstream, and a communication module for transmitting and receiving the encrypted bitstream.