TSN Scheduler with Quantum Key Distribution for Secure Flow Scheduling
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Solution Overview
Problem
Time-sensitive networks face challenges in ensuring timely and secure data communication, as conventional cybersecurity measures are resource-intensive and may not provide adequate security, particularly in critical systems like power grids where delays can impact stability.
Innovation Solution
Implementing a scheduler that identifies connections and determines quantum key distribution (QKD) information within a time-sensitive network to efficiently schedule flows, incorporating QKD security constraints and optimizing key generation rates based on physical path lengths to balance latency, determinism, and security.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional cybersecurity measures are implemented in time-sensitive networks, then security is improved, but processing resource consumption increases and may cause delays
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary actions by pre-distributing quantum keys through QKD channels before data transmission is needed. The scheduler pre-calculates and prepares encrypted communication paths using quantum-encrypted keys, so that when data needs to be transmitted, the security infrastructure is already in place and ready to use, avoiding real-time computational delays.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces conventional computational cryptography (which relies on complex mathematical calculations) with quantum key distribution based on quantum mechanical principles. The quantum-encrypted channels provide security through physical laws rather than computational complexity, eliminating the need for resource-intensive processing while maintaining or enhancing security levels.
2Reliability
If quantum key distribution is implemented for all connections, then security is improved, but device complexity and resource requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system applies different security qualities to different parts of the network based on their specific needs. The scheduler identifies critical connections that require quantum-encrypted channels and applies QKD selectively to those paths, while less critical communications can use conventional encryption methods. This localized application of quantum security reduces overall system complexity while maintaining security where it is most needed.
Solution Approach 2:
The quantum key distribution infrastructure is designed to serve multiple functions: it provides security for time-sensitive communications, establishes encrypted channels for future communications, and creates a scalable framework that can accommodate varying security requirements across different network segments. The single QKD infrastructure supports both immediate and future security needs.
3Speed
If flow scheduling is optimized for timeliness, then data delivery speed is improved, but security may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the scheduling process into distinct phases: quantum key distribution phase, flow identification phase, and encrypted transmission phase. Each phase is optimized independently - QKD operates at quantum speeds for key generation, the scheduler efficiently identifies and prioritizes time-sensitive flows, and encrypted transmission occurs through pre-established quantum-secure channels. This segmentation allows both speed and security optimizations to coexist without conflict.
Data Source
AI summary
A method includes identifying connections between plural components of a time sensitive network (TSN) that are interconnected via a predetermined connection plan. The method also includes determining quantum key distribution (QKD) information of the components. Also, the method further includes scheduling flows for the TSN based on the QKD information of the components.