Software IP Protection via Masquerading and Camouflaging Algorithms
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for protecting intellectual property during software development, such as encryption and obfuscation, fail to effectively safeguard sensitive information shared during collaboration and outsourcing, particularly in the early stages of the development cycle, as they either do not prevent authorized parties from misappropriating information or hinder further development.
Innovation Solution
A process involving a masquerading algorithm to modify disclosure documents and a camouflaging algorithm to modify source code, generating new disclosures and source code that conceal the original intent and workflow while allowing for further development, using keyword extraction, model template selection, and pseudo-random number generators to create conversion data for compilation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If encryption is used to protect information, then confidentiality is improved, but authorized users cannot access and use the information
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the protective function from the information itself by creating a separate watermark that can be independently applied. The watermark is embedded in the information but can be removed or bypassed by authorized users through the use of a key, allowing them to access the underlying information while unauthorized users remain blocked.
Solution Approach 2:
The watermark acts as an intermediary layer between the information and users. It provides confidentiality by blocking unauthorized access while allowing authorized users to pass through using a key. The watermark mediates the conflict between protection and accessibility by being selectively removable.
2Reliability
If obfuscation is used to protect source code, then intellectual property protection is improved, but further development of the code is hindered
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the protection mechanism from the functional code. The watermark is a separate component that can be independently applied to the source code without altering its functional structure. This segmentation allows developers to work with the functional aspects while the protection layer remains intact but removable when needed.
Solution Approach 2:
The watermark applies protection locally to specific portions of the code or information without obfuscating the entire codebase. Authorized users can selectively remove or bypass the watermark in specific areas they need to modify, maintaining ease of development in those local regions while preserving protection in other areas.
3Productivity
If sensitive information is shared during collaboration, then project development is accelerated, but risk of misappropriation increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary protection by embedding the watermark in the information before sharing it during collaboration. This allows the information to be shared openly to accelerate development while the pre-applied watermark provides automatic protection against misappropriation. The protection is in place before any potential harm can occur.
Solution Approach 2:
The watermark subtly changes the appearance or structure of the shared information without making it unusable. It adds a protective layer that is imperceptible to authorized collaborators but provides traceability and protection against misappropriation. The 'color change' is metaphorical, referring to the subtle modification that preserves functionality while adding protection.
Data Source
AI summary
A system and method for modifying material related to computer software. The system receives an original disclosure for a software system. A masquerading algorithm is applied to the original disclosure to generate a new disclosure. The subject matter of the new disclosure is different from the original disclosure but has the same functionality. The system also receives original source code for the software system and applies a camouflaging algorithm to the original source code to generate modified source code and conversion data for converting between the modified source code and the original source code.