Latch-Based Free-Running Oscillator for Fast Cryptographic Entropy
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional pseudorandom number generators (PRNGs) lack true randomness and are deterministic, making them unsuitable for cryptographic systems that require high unpredictability, while true random number generators (TRNGs) based on inverter-free running oscillators are slow and face design challenges.
Innovation Solution
A latch-based free-running oscillator (FRO) with latches instead of inverters is used to generate a random digital value, capturing the FRO state for faster entropy generation and improved entropic performance, suitable for cryptographic applications.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If conventional pseudorandom number generators (PRNGs) are used, then speed in number generation is improved, but true randomness and unpredictability deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the deterministic mechanical/computational system of PRNGs with a physical system based on quantum-mechanical effects. The true random number generator uses physical phenomena (quantum noise, thermal noise, or phase noise) to generate entropy, substituting the algorithmic approach with a physical process that inherently produces unpredictable results while maintaining high-speed operation through hardware implementation.
2Reliability
If true random number generators (TRNGs) based on inverter-free running oscillators are used, then true randomness is improved, but speed and startup time deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the operating parameters of the oscillator system by using latches with controlled enable signals instead of traditional inverter-based oscillators. The latches can be rapidly enabled and disabled, allowing the system to quickly transition from a stable state to an oscillating state, thereby reducing startup time. The oscillation frequency and entropy generation rate are optimized through parameter selection to achieve both true randomness and high speed.
3Reliability
If true random number generators (TRNGs) based on inverter-free running oscillators are used, then true randomness is improved, but device complexity and design difficulty increase
Solution Approach 1:
The latch-based oscillator design serves multiple functions: it generates oscillations for entropy production, provides controllable startup through enable signals, and can be integrated with standard digital logic. The same latch structure that enables rapid startup also serves as the core oscillation element, reducing the need for separate control circuits and simplifying the overall design while maintaining true randomness.
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 latch-based FRO achieves high-bandwidth, low-power random number generation with fast startup time, suitable for cryptographic operations, and can be integrated into VLSI circuits without hand-tuning, providing a synthesizable and efficient entropy source.
Implementation Method 1
The uncertainty is often quantified in terms of 'entropy,' a standard measure of unpredictability of information content
Implementation Method 2
A good seed source may be a true random number generator (TRNG), which is tied to some known-random physical phenomena (e.g., offset, thermal noise, phase noise, or the like)
Data Source
AI summary
The embodiments described herein describe technologies of a latch-based freerunning oscillator (FRO). The latch-based FROs can be used to generate a random digital value. The entropy of the random digital value is based on the free-running oscillation of the latch-based FRO, as well as the metastability of the latches. The random digital value can be part of an N-bit random number.