Flash Memory Random Number Generator for Encryption Key Generation

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional data encryption methods are vulnerable to cracking due to insufficient complexity in random numbers generated by existing real random number generators, which fail to adequately enhance data security.

Innovation Solution

A method and apparatus that utilize a flash memory-based random number generator by selecting and initializing cells in the flash memory, programming them to obtain potential values, re-initializing and re-programming to generate difference values, and processing these values through a predetermined algorithm to produce a complex random number or encryption/decryption key.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If conventional random number generators are used, then the system is simple to implement, but the complexity of generated random numbers is insufficient making data security vulnerable

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvedata securityVSAvoidrandom number generation complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The flash memory cells themselves serve as the random number generation source by utilizing their inherent physical characteristics and variability in potential values after programming and erasing operations, eliminating the need for external complex random number generation hardware or software

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The invention changes the physical state parameters of flash memory cells through multiple programming and erasing cycles, exploiting the non-deterministic variations in threshold voltage shifts to generate high-entropy random numbers that are unpredictable and secure

Inventive Principle:

Principle #35Parameter changes

2Reliability

If existing real random number generators are used, then the implementation is straightforward, but the generated random numbers lack sufficient complexity to prevent data cracking

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveencryption securityVSAvoidrandom number complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSMeasurement precision

Solution Approach 1:

The invention replaces conventional software-based or hardware-based random number generation mechanisms with a physical process-based approach using flash memory cell characteristics, where the random numbers are derived from the physical variability in cell potential values rather than algorithmic generation

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The flash memory cells act as an intermediary between the programming/erasing operations and the random number generation, where the non-deterministic physical response of the cells to repeated programming cycles provides the necessary entropy and complexity for secure random numbers

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Data Source

PatentUS11449310B2Random number generator, encryption/decryption secret key generator and method based on characteristics of memory cells

Publication Date: 2022.09.20 RAYMX MICROELECTRONICS CORP

AI summary

A method for generating a random number, applied in a random number generator coupled to a flash memory is disclosed. the method comprises: selecting a plurality of cells from the flash memory; initializing the selecting cells of the flash memory; programming the selecting cells to obtain a plurality of first potential values of the selecting cells; re-initializing the selecting cells of the flash memory; re-programming the selecting cells to obtain a plurality of second potential values of the selecting cells; and processing the first potential values and the second potential values according to a predetermined algorithm to generating the random number.