Secure Fan Profile Control for Adaptive Cooling Systems
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing fan systems are inefficient and costly due to the need for multiple system controllers to accommodate different applications, and are vulnerable to security threats such as counterfeit fans and hacker attacks, which can lead to thermal shutdowns or excessive power consumption.
Innovation Solution
Implementing a fan system with a trusted platform module for authentication and secure boot, allowing selection of operational profiles via digital interfaces or PWM connections, and using encrypted communication to ensure authentic operation and power management based on application-specific profiles.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple system controllers are used to accommodate different applications, then adaptability to different cooling requirements is improved, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a single fan controller that can operate multiple fan types (e.g., DC fans, AC fans, PWM-controlled fans) through a unified interface. The controller includes multiple output channels that can be configured via software to support different cooling profiles and fan characteristics, eliminating the need for separate hardware controllers for each fan type while maintaining adaptability across diverse cooling requirements
2Reliability
If authentication mechanisms are implemented, then security against hacker attacks is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a trusted platform module (TPM) as a security intermediary that handles authentication and encryption operations. The TPM securely stores cryptographic keys and performs authentication of the fan controller and communication partners, while the main controller focuses on fan management. This separation allows security features to be implemented without significantly complicating the fan control logic
3Reliability
If secure communication protocols are used, then protection against unauthorized control is improved, but processing overhead and energy consumption increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs authentication and establishes secure communication channels during system initialization and boot-up phases. Once authenticated, the security parameters and encryption keys are cached in memory, allowing subsequent fan control operations to proceed with minimal cryptographic processing. This preliminary authentication approach ensures security while reducing energy consumption during normal fan operation
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
Enables efficient and secure fan operation tailored to specific applications, reducing costs and preventing unauthorized control, while ensuring reliable cooling and power management.
Implementation Method 1
A fan may direct an air flow to cool the heat generating components via convection
Data Source
AI summary
Methods, apparatuses, and systems provide cooling equipment, such as fans, that may operate according to a selected profile of a plurality of operational profiles. An authentication process may be performed with respect to the fan and/or with respect to an operational control to verify the operations of the fan. A system is provided that includes one or more electronic modules configured to perform one or more operations and at least one fan configured to cool the one or more electronic modules by operating at a predetermined speed based on an operational profile. The system further includes a controller configured to securely communicate with the at least one fan to control the at least one fan to select the operational profile from a plurality of operational profiles.