Shielded Interconnect Structure for PUF-Based Key Protection
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing security systems for computing devices, such as RFID devices and smart cards, are vulnerable to physical security attacks like side channel attacks and invasive attacks, which compromise cryptographic keys stored in non-volatile memories, necessitating robust defense mechanisms.
Innovation Solution
A security device with a shielding structure and interconnect layer featuring first and second lines that cross each other, a controller, driver, reader, and security part, utilizing a true-random-number generator to generate identification keys, and a substrate with a lower die shielding structure to enhance security against attacks.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If cryptographic keys are stored in non-volatile memory, then security functionality is provided, but vulnerability to physical attacks increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the cryptographic key from storage in non-volatile memory and instead generates it dynamically using a PUF (physically unclonable function) based on unique physical characteristics of the device. This removes the static storage vulnerability while maintaining security functionality through on-demand key generation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a PUF (physically unclonable function) as an intermediary mechanism that converts physical characteristics into cryptographic keys. This intermediary layer prevents direct access to keys while maintaining security, as the keys are generated from physical properties rather than stored.
2Reliability
If disassembly detection structures are implemented, then invasive attack detection is improved, but advanced attacks can still disable these structures
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements preliminary protection by generating cryptographic keys from physical characteristics before any attack can occur. The PUF-based key generation is inherent to the device's physical structure, making it impossible for attackers to disable detection structures and still obtain keys, as the keys are derived from the physical structure itself rather than stored separately.
3Ease of manufacture
If standard interconnect layer design is used, then manufacturing simplicity is maintained, but security against physical attacks is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces asymmetry into the interconnect layer by implementing random connections between first and second lines that cross each other. This asymmetric, non-uniform connection pattern creates unique physical characteristics for each device that form the basis of the PUF, enhancing security while maintaining manufacturing feasibility through standard randomization processes.
4Manufacturing precision
If fixed line connections are used, then manufacturing precision is maintained, but security through physical variations is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from static, fixed line connections to dynamic, random connections that vary between devices. The interconnect layer incorporates random connection patterns that are established during manufacturing, creating unique physical characteristics for each device while maintaining manufacturing precision through controlled randomization processes.
Data Source
AI summary
Provided are a security device and a substrate.