Wireless Channel Key Generation with UE-Base Station Synchronization
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing wireless networks face challenges in securely generating physical layer secret keys for user equipment (UEs) to authenticate and authorize access, with synchronization and configuration procedures needing improvement to protect against unauthorized key obtainment.
Innovation Solution
A method for generating physical layer secret keys involves configuring UE and base station synchronization through downlink and uplink reference signal configurations, error correction codes, universal hashing functions, and key verification, using dedicated RRC messages for synchronization and alignment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional key generation methods are used, then network security is maintained, but synchronization precision and reliability of physical layer keys are insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by establishing synchronization before key generation. The base station transmits synchronization information to the UE in advance, and both sides perform synchronization procedures (including timing alignment and frame number alignment) before generating the physical layer key. This ensures that both UE and base station are in the same time and state context when generating the key, significantly improving synchronization precision and key generation reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements feedback mechanisms where the UE sends acknowledgment messages to the base station after receiving synchronization information, and the base station adjusts synchronization parameters based on UE feedback. This feedback loop ensures that synchronization issues are detected and corrected, maintaining high synchronization precision throughout the key generation process.
2Reliability
If more synchronization procedures are implemented, then key security is improved, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple synchronization functions into integrated procedures. The base station combines timing synchronization, frame number synchronization, and key generation into a unified process. The UE integrates reception of synchronization information, local timing adjustment, and key derivation into a single operational flow. This merging reduces the number of separate complex procedures while maintaining security requirements.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent designs synchronization mechanisms that serve multiple functions simultaneously. The synchronization information transmitted by the base station not only aligns timing but also provides reference for key generation and authentication. The same synchronization procedures enable both timing coordination and security key derivation, reducing overall system complexity while improving authentication security.
3Reliability
If physical layer key generation is implemented, then authentication security is enhanced, but configuration and synchronization overhead increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs synchronization actions before key generation to minimize time loss during authentication. The base station transmits synchronization information in advance, and both sides complete timing and frame number alignment before initiating key derivation. This preliminary synchronization ensures that the subsequent key generation process is faster and more efficient, reducing overall authentication time.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent maintains continuous synchronization throughout the communication process. Once synchronization is established, both UE and base station continuously maintain aligned timing and frame numbers during key generation and subsequent communications. This continuity eliminates the need for repeated synchronization operations, reducing time loss and improving authentication efficiency.
Data Source
AI summary
The present application relates to devices and components including apparatus, systems, and methods for configuring elements of a network for generating a physical layer key.