Smart Meter Security Module Personalization
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Solution Overview
Problem
Smart meter devices lack effective methods for secure identity assignment and tamper detection, which is crucial for secure network communication and fee collection processes, especially in energy consumption monitoring systems.
Innovation Solution
A method for personalizing smart meter devices with a security module that creates a unique and irreversible connection, using either mechanical or logical linking, ensuring the device can only be identified by a unique identifier, and automatically deactivates if the security module is removed or compromised, thus preventing unauthorized manipulation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a unique identifier is stored directly in the smart meter device during manufacturing, then the device can be uniquely identified for secure communication and fee collection, but the manufacturing process becomes more complex and costly due to security requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the identification function into two separate components: a security module that stores the unique identifier and a smart meter device that uses this identifier. The security module is personalized in a secure environment and then permanently connected to the smart meter device, separating the sensitive identification storage from the main device manufacturing process.
Solution Approach 2:
The security module acts as an intermediary between the smart meter device and the identification system. It contains the unique identifier and serves as the communication interface for external computer systems, mediating all identification and communication functions while maintaining security.
2Ease of operation
If the security module can be removed or replaced, then the device is more flexible and easier to maintain, but tamper detection and data integrity cannot be ensured
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements preliminary anti-action by creating an irreversible connection between the security module and the smart meter device during manufacturing. This connection includes mechanical bonding and logical linking that prevents subsequent removal or replacement, thereby preemptively preventing tampering before it can occur.
Solution Approach 2:
The security module and smart meter device are merged into a single functional unit through irreversible mechanical connection and logical linking. The device is designed to be identifiable only when the security module is properly connected, combining their functions into an integrated system that cannot be separated without compromising functionality.
3Reliability
If cryptographic keys are stored in the smart meter device, then secure network communication can be implemented, but the device becomes more vulnerable to tampering and unauthorized access
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the cryptographic key storage function from the main smart meter device and places it in the separate security module. This module is personalized in a secure environment and permanently connected to the device, physically separating the sensitive cryptographic materials from the main device that is more exposed to tampering risks.
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to a method for personalizing a smart meter device (138; 142; 144; 146; 148) with a security module, wherein the security module (100) is configured as a communication interface of the device (138; 142; 144; 146; 148) with an external computer system (166; 150), wherein a unique identifier (108) is stored in the security module (100), wherein the method comprises inseparably connecting the security module (100) to the device (138; 142; 144; 146; 148), wherein after the connection the device (138; 142; 144; 146; 148) is identifiable by the unique identifier (108).