Vehicle Sensor Hardware Security Module for Unauthorized Access
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing vehicle systems face vulnerabilities to unauthorized access through interfaces and data lines, compromising cyber security, particularly in sensors, which can lead to unauthorized access to critical functions like electronic stability control and closed-loop brake control.
Innovation Solution
Incorporating a hardware security module with a storage section to securely store cryptographic keys, enabling encryption, decryption, and validation of data, along with structural shielding to prevent unauthorized access, and self-deactivation upon unauthorized opening.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If interfaces and data lines are opened for software updates and function access, then adaptability and ease of operation are improved, but cyber security and protection against unauthorized access deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The sensor is segmented into distinct functional modules: measurement interface, processing means, and data interface. Each module operates with defined access rights, and the cryptographic keys are isolated in a separate storage section. This segmentation allows software updates through the data interface while protecting the measurement interface and core processing functions from unauthorized access.
Solution Approach 2:
Cryptographic keys serve as an intermediary mechanism between the open data interface and the protected sensor functions. The keys mediate access control by enabling authentication and authorization of software updates and data access requests, allowing legitimate updates while blocking unauthorized access attempts.
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 housing as an integrated component rather than a separate external device. The storage section containing cryptographic keys is built into the sensor structure, combining security functions with the measurement device. This integration reduces overall system complexity while maintaining strong security protection.
3Reliability
If the sensor is designed with secure access protection, then cyber security is improved, but ease of operation and maintenance deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The sensor implements dynamic access control where cryptographic keys can be updated, rotated, and managed through the data interface without requiring physical sensor disassembly or replacement. The system transitions between different security states (authorized/unauthorized, update mode/operation mode) dynamically, allowing maintenance personnel to perform security updates while maintaining protection during normal operation.
Data Source
AI summary
A sensor for a vehicle, in particular for a commercial vehicle. The sensor includes a housing; a measurement interface configured designed to capture a measurement variable of the vehicle and to generate raw measurement data describing the measurement variable; a processing means configured to process the raw measurement data to form measurement data. The sensor has at least one protective measure against unauthorized access.