Security Cover Structure for Root-of-Trust Chip Access Blocking
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Solution Overview
Problem
Data centers face challenges in securing hardware root of trust devices from physical access, as digital guards are insufficient against physical intrusion, necessitating enhanced physical security measures to protect sensitive information and prevent unauthorized access.
Innovation Solution
A physical security module is designed to secure integrated circuits by mounting them to a board using a security device with a recessed portion and conductive pads, which are soldered to prevent top-side access and provide secure communication while blocking physical access, utilizing a layered material structure for enhanced security and thermal management.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If digital guards are used to protect root of trust circuits, then digital security is improved, but physical access can still provide an alternative route for unauthorized access
Solution Approach 1:
The security device is divided into multiple functional segments: a body portion for mounting, a recessed portion for housing the IC, conductive pads for electrical connection, and a security cover for physical protection. This segmentation allows each component to fulfill its specific function while collectively providing comprehensive security against both digital and physical threats.
Solution Approach 2:
The security device utilizes a composite structure combining conductive materials (for electrical connections), insulating materials (for the body and recessed portions), and protective materials (for the security cover). This composite approach enables simultaneous achievement of electrical conductivity, physical protection, and thermal management.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If a security cover is added to block physical access, then physical security is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The security device is designed as a multi-functional integrated structure that simultaneously provides mounting functionality, electrical connection, thermal management, and physical security. The body portion serves both as a structural support and a mounting platform, while the conductive pads provide both electrical connection and thermal pathways, eliminating the need for separate components.
Solution Approach 2:
Multiple security functions are merged into a single integrated device: the mounting function, electrical connection function, thermal management function, and physical security function are all combined in one security device structure, reducing overall system complexity while providing comprehensive protection.
3Reliability
If conductive pads are used for secure communication, then electrical connectivity is improved, but thermal management requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The conductive pads are designed to perform dual functions: providing electrical connectivity for secure communication with the root of trust IC and simultaneously serving as thermal pathways for heat dissipation. This multi-functionality resolves the contradiction by making the same structural element serve both electrical and thermal management purposes.
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
The solution effectively prevents unauthorized access to hardware root of trust devices by securing them physically, ensuring secure communication and thermal management, thereby enhancing data center security and protecting sensitive information.
Implementation Method 1
conductive pads, which are soldered to prevent top-side access and provide secure communication
Implementation Method 2
provide secure communication and thermal management
Implementation Method 3
conductive pads, which are soldered to prevent top-side access
Data Source
AI summary
Devices and methods for physical chip security are disclosed. In at least one embodiment, a security module is secured to a board to restrict physical access to an integrated circuit mounted on the security module and provides one or more contacts enabling data access to the integrated circuit.