Frequency-Modulated Oscillator for Provable Entropy Generation

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Solution Overview

Problem

Traditional random number generators based on uncorrelated binary oscillators produce partially predictable signals, failing to meet emerging specifications that demand inherent proof of uncertainty and provable sources of entropy.

Innovation Solution

A double clock noise source system with separate frequency accelerator controllers modulates autonomous oscillator frequencies, producing entropic phase-separated signals that are post-processed to generate unpredictable random binary sequences, compatible with AIS 31 specifications and capable of loading hundreds of millions of bits of entropy in less than a tenth of a second.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If traditional uncorrelated binary oscillators are used, then device complexity is reduced, but the reliability of random number generation deteriorates due to partial predictability

Engineering Contradiction:
Improverandomness qualityVSAvoidoscillator system complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The system divides the random number generation into two independent segments: a true random oscillator providing entropy and a deterministic post-processor providing structure. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized independently, achieving high reliability without excessive overall complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

A deterministic post-processor acts as an intermediary between the true random oscillator and the final random number output. This intermediary processes the raw oscillator signal through cryptographic functions, transforming partially predictable oscillator output into high-quality random numbers that meet reliability specifications.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Measurement precision

If autonomous oscillators with uncorrelated frequencies are used, then ease of operation is improved, but measurement precision of entropy sources deteriorates due to lack of provable uncertainty

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveentropy measurement accuracyVSAvoidsystem configuration complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The system incorporates feedback mechanisms where the deterministic post-processor continuously monitors and processes oscillator output, using cryptographic validation to ensure entropy quality. This feedback loop provides provable uncertainty measurement without requiring complex manual configuration.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

Solution Approach 2:

The system changes the operational parameters of the oscillator, specifically using frequency modulation with spread spectrum techniques. This parameter change transforms the oscillator output into a form where entropy can be precisely measured and validated against cryptographic standards.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

3Productivity

If multiple autonomous oscillators are used to increase entropy, then productivity of random number generation is improved, but device complexity increases due to multiple interacting components

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveentropy generation rateVSAvoidnumber of oscillators
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The system merges a single true random oscillator with a deterministic computational engine in the post-processor. This combination achieves high entropy generation rates equivalent to multiple oscillators while reducing hardware complexity by consolidating functionality into one oscillator plus software processing.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The system replaces additional physical oscillators with a deterministic computational system. Instead of adding more mechanical/electrical oscillating components, the patent uses algorithmic processing to generate equivalent or superior entropy, reducing device complexity while maintaining or improving productivity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

4Productivity

If high-frequency oscillators are used to increase entropy output, then productivity is improved, but use of energy increases due to higher operating frequencies

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvebits of entropy per secondVSAvoidpower consumption
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSUse of energy by moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The system uses periodic sampling of the oscillator output combined with deterministic processing bursts. Instead of continuously operating high-frequency components, the system periodically captures entropy and processes it deterministically, achieving high productivity during active periods while reducing average power consumption.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #19Periodic action

Solution Approach 2:

The system replaces high-frequency physical oscillation with lower-frequency deterministic computation. The deterministic post-processor operates at lower frequencies than the oscillator, performing complex entropy expansion algorithms without the continuous energy consumption of high-frequency hardware oscillation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

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

The system outputs more than 2 bits of entropy per clock cycle, generating virtually endless unpredictable strings that pass rigorous statistical tests, suitable for high-entropy initial conditions in devices like mobile phones without interfering with wireless transmission, and operates with reduced transistor count for lower energy consumption.

Implementation Method 1

a frequency modulator circuit operative to control the plurality of levels of frequency of the frequency modulated oscillator by generating oscillator input signals

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectFrequency modulation: Phase Modulation

Data Source

PatentUS7852162B2Pseudo random noise device based on a random frequency modulated oscillator
Publication Date: 2010.12.14 FORTRESS GB LTD
  • US7852162B2 patent drawing
  • US7852162B2 patent drawing
  • US7852162B2 patent drawing

AI summary

Random number generators are used for entertainment in gambling, lotteries and video gaming devices. True Random Number Generators, as are now currently defined, must be actuated by a physical noise source, typically based on the uncertainty of the phase differences of a stable and an unstable autonomous oscillator. In this invention an autonomous random frequency modulated oscillator driven by a self contained pseudo-random number generator outputs three loosely correlated random binary streams. Included in the invention is a hardware method for proving wandering phase differences and also the existence of a colored random distribution of concatenated nibbles.