Machine Component Authentication Through Tolerance-Bound Signature Patterns
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
There is a need for a reliable and cost-effective method to distinguish authentic safety-relevant machine components from unauthorized imitations, particularly in applications like aviation, where counterfeit components pose a significant risk.
Innovation Solution
A method involving machining a workpiece to create a signature pattern on its surface, which is a deviation from nominal dimensions within a tolerance range, combined with a verification code generated from the signature pattern using cryptographic methods, allowing decentralized authentication.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a signature pattern is created as a deviation from nominal dimensions within tolerance range, then authentication security is improved, but detection difficulty increases
Solution Approach 1:
The signature pattern is embedded locally within the tolerance range of nominal dimensions, creating a unique authentication feature at a specific location without affecting overall component quality. The pattern represents a localized deviation that is imperceptible to standard measurement methods but verifiable through precise dimensional analysis
Solution Approach 2:
The signature pattern utilizes subtle changes in dimensional parameters within the acceptable tolerance range. By encoding authentication information through parameter variations that remain within specification limits, the system achieves secure authentication while maintaining detectability through precise measurement
2Reliability
If cryptographic methods are used to generate verification code from signature pattern, then authentication reliability is improved, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces complex cryptographic verification systems with a simplified dimensional measurement approach. Instead of using heavy cryptographic protocols, the verification is achieved by measuring physical dimensional deviations that inherently encode authentication information, substituting computational complexity with physical measurement
3Reliability
If signature pattern dimensions are reduced to be difficult to detect, then authentication security is improved, but manufacturing precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The signature pattern uses partial dimensional deviations within the tolerance range rather than extreme precision requirements. By utilizing a portion of the available tolerance band to encode the signature, the system achieves authentication security without demanding excessive manufacturing precision beyond normal capabilities
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3
AI summary
The invention relates to a method (100) for producing a machine component (15) from a workpiece (10). The method (100) comprises a first step (110) in which a dimension (16) of a surface (12) of the workpiece (10) to be machined and a margin of tolerance (17) of the dimension (16) are registered. A second step (120) follows, in which a signature pattern (20) for the surface (12) to be machined is generated. This is followed by a third step (130) in which the workpiece (10) is shaped (37) at least on the surface (12) to be machined. During this step the signature pattern (20) is produced. In a subsequent fourth step (140), a check code (25) is produced on the workpiece (10). According to the invention, the signature pattern (20) has maximum dimensions (22) which are within the tolerance margin (17).