Power fingerprinting module for tamper-resistant device
This technology monitors whether a computer or embedded device is running exactly the software it's supposed to run, by analyzing its power consumption in real time. Every program creates a unique 'power fingerprint' as it executes — like a heartbeat — and this system captures that fingerprint and compares it against a trusted baseline. If malware or unauthorized code runs, it changes the power pattern in detectable ways, triggering an alert. The approach works even when attackers try to hide inside legitimate software, because it operates at the hardware physics level rather than relying on software-based detection that can itself be compromised.
What you could build
A hardware security module or firmware agent for industrial control systems, military embedded platforms, and critical infrastructure endpoints that provides continuous, tamper-resistant integrity verification — sold to defense primes, ICS vendors, and government agencies requiring supply-chain and runtime assurance.
Who in Virginia should care
Northern Virginia and Hampton Roads defense contractors, government system integrators, and federal agencies (DoD, DHS, NSA) with embedded systems security mandates would be natural partners or licensees.
Readiness: Prototype likely
Concept — described but not yet demonstrated. Lab validated — supported by experimental results in the patent. Prototype likely — the text describes a built, working embodiment.
Readiness is inferred from the patent text, not from a lab visit.
The record
- Inventors
- Jeffrey H. Reed, Carlos R. Aguayo Gonzalez
- Granted
- January 31, 2017
- Status
- Granted patent
- Patent number
- 9558350
Ready to talk?
Virginia Tech Intellectual Properties handles licensing for this technology.
Prosim summaries are generated from public patent text and are not legal advice.