CMOS Quantum Random Number Generator with Scintillator
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Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional nuclear-based true random number generators (TRNGs) require large detectors to achieve uniform electron flux, which is challenging to implement in compact devices due to the complexity of designing and manufacturing detector arrays and the sensitivity of components to contaminants and mechanical separation, and they often use highly radioactive materials that are hazardous.
Innovation Solution
A true random number generator design featuring a CMOS matrix detector with a half-dome shell containing a radiation source and a luminophore or scintillator that emits photons upon radioactive decay, allowing for a uniform electron flux and integration into a self-contained microchip, using Nickel-63 as the radioactive source and employing Monte Carlo simulations to optimize the radiation source placement for uniformity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If large detectors are used to achieve uniform electron flux, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity and size increase
Solution Approach 1:
A scintillator material is introduced as an intermediary between the radioactive source and the CMOS detector. The scintillator converts beta particles (electrons) into photons, which are then detected by the CMOS matrix. This mediation allows the use of a simple, compact CMOS detector instead of a complex detector array, while maintaining uniform detection through the scintillator's light-emitting properties.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces a complex mechanical/electrical detector array system with a simpler optical system. Instead of using multiple discrete detectors requiring precise mechanical positioning and electrical connections, the solution uses a scintillator that optically converts particles to light, which can be detected by a standard CMOS matrix, thereby reducing device complexity.
2Productivity
If highly radioactive materials are used to increase decay rate, then productivity is improved, but harmful factors increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the physical state and containment parameters of the radioactive material. By enclosing the Nickel-63 source in a sealed capsule and using a scintillator with high light output efficiency, the system achieves high productivity from a low-activity source. The parameter change from direct electron detection to photon detection via scintillation allows efficient random number generation with minimal radioactive material, reducing hazards.
3Area of stationary object
If detector area is reduced for compact devices, then device size is reduced, but measurement precision deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The scintillator is designed with specific local properties - it is positioned in direct contact with or close to the radioactive source, creating a localized region of high light conversion efficiency. This local quality enhancement ensures that even with a small CMOS detector area, the detected photons provide sufficient signal uniformity and precision for accurate random number generation.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This design enables a cost-effective, compact, and safe TRNG with a uniform electron flux, capable of generating high-speed and high-throughput true random numbers resistant to environmental influences, using a stable Nickel-63 source with a long half-life and a scintillator that maintains functionality for the device's practical lifetime.
Implementation Method 1
a luminophore or scintillator that emits photons upon radioactive decay
Implementation Method 2
The CMOS detector matrix is constructed to detect the photons emitted from the luminophore or scintillator
Implementation Method 3
using the spontaneous Nickel isotope decay
Data Source
AI summary
A true random number generator is presented that includes a CMOS matrix detector with a top surface. A shell is positioned over the top surface, and the shell includes a radiation source and a luminophore or scintillator constructed to emit photons towards the top surface when the luminophore or scintillator is struck by electrons from the radioactive decay of the source of the radiation. The CMOS detector matrix is constructed to detect the photons emitted from the luminophore or scintillator and to produce a signal for the detected photons. The signal is communicated to a processor that produces true random numbers based on the signal from the detected photons.