Vehicle Sensor Hardware Security Module for Secure Data Exchange
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing vehicle sensors are vulnerable to unauthorized access, which compromises cyber security, particularly in the context of safety functions like electronic stability control and closed-loop brake control, due to interfaces and data lines that enable unauthorized access.
Innovation Solution
Incorporating a hardware security module with a storage section for cryptographic keys to protect data integrity and implement encryption, along with structural shielding to prevent wireless access, and self-deactivation mechanisms to ensure secure operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If interfaces and data lines are provided to enable software updates and access, then adaptability and ease of operation are improved, but cyber security deteriorates due to unauthorized access
Solution Approach 1:
A hardware security module is introduced as an intermediary component between the sensor's processing means and external systems. This module manages cryptographic keys and validates communication, enabling software updates and data access while preventing unauthorized access. The security module acts as a mediator that maintains both adaptability and security.
Solution Approach 2:
The sensor is divided into functionally independent segments: a measurement interface for capturing data, a processing means for processing measurements, a hardware security module for security functions, and a data interface for communication. This segmentation allows the security module to independently manage cryptographic operations without compromising other sensor functions, resolving the contradiction between accessibility and security.
2Reliability
If cryptographic keys are stored in a hardware security module, then cyber security is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The hardware security module is merged with the sensor's existing processing means and housing structure. The security module utilizes the same physical housing and integrates with existing data interfaces, rather than requiring separate independent components. This merging approach enhances security while minimizing the increase in overall device complexity.
3Reliability
If structural shielding is added to prevent wireless access, then cyber security is improved, but device complexity and manufacturing difficulty increase
Solution Approach 1:
The shielding implementation uses thin film or shell-like structures that can be integrated into the existing housing design. These flexible shielding elements provide electromagnetic protection against wireless access while being relatively simple to manufacture and assemble compared to rigid shielding structures. The shielding can be incorporated as part of the housing assembly process.
Data Source
AI summary
A sensor for a vehicle, such as a commercial vehicle. The sensor includes a housing, a measurement interface configured to capture a measurement variable of the vehicle for generating a raw measurement data describing the measurement variable. The sensor includes a processing device which is configured to process the raw measurement data to generate a measurement data; a data interface in communication with the processing device and configured to exchange data between the sensor and other components; and a storage section configured to store at least one cryptographic key, wherein the processing device is configured to use the at least one cryptographic key to encrypt and/or decrypt and/or validate data sent or received via the data interface.