Microcomputer Random Number Generation Using Oscillator Timing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Microcomputers face difficulties in generating random numbers due to their reliance on stabilized power supply voltages, making it challenging to create a simple and cost-effective random number generating device without external circuits that fluctuate with power supply voltage.
Innovation Solution
A random number generating device is designed using a microcomputer with a first oscillator circuit and an electronic circuit that has different temperature characteristics, allowing the microcomputer to generate random numbers by measuring the operating time of the electronic circuit based on the clock from the first oscillator circuit, eliminating the need for external circuits that respond to power supply voltage fluctuations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If an A/D converter or voltage control oscillator is externally attached to a microcomputer to generate random numbers using power supply voltage fluctuations, then random number generation is achieved, but the device configuration becomes complicated and manufacturing cost rises
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the random number generation function into the microcomputer itself by utilizing the microcomputer's own oscillator circuit and timer. Instead of externally attaching an A/D converter or voltage control oscillator, the invention combines these functions within the microcomputer's internal architecture, thereby simplifying the overall device configuration while maintaining random number generation capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The microcomputer's oscillator circuit and timer are made to serve multiple functions: they provide the clock signal for microcomputer operation and simultaneously generate random numbers by measuring the operating time of an electronic circuit. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate external circuits, reducing device complexity while achieving the random number generation objective.
2Reliability
If external circuits with unstable power sources are attached to generate random numbers, then random number generation is possible, but manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The microcomputer generates random numbers using its own internal oscillator circuit and timer without requiring external circuits with unstable power sources. The system utilizes the microcomputer's self-contained resources to measure the operating time of an electronic circuit, thereby achieving random number generation at low manufacturing cost while eliminating the need for additional external components.
3Stability of the object's composition
If a microcomputer uses stabilized power supply voltage to function, then reliable operation is achieved, but the microcomputer cannot generate random numbers by itself
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an electronic circuit as an intermediary element with different temperature characteristics from the oscillator circuit. By measuring the operating time of this electronic circuit using the oscillator's clock signal, the system creates a random number that does not depend on power supply voltage fluctuations. The electronic circuit acts as a mediator that converts temperature variations into measurable time differences, enabling random number generation while maintaining stable power supply operation.
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 approach enables the generation of random numbers using built-in microcomputer circuits at a low manufacturing cost, simplifying the device and eliminating the need for external components that vary with power supply fluctuations.
Implementation Method 1
a first oscillator circuit that generates a clock serving as a basis of a behavior of the microcomputer
Implementation Method 2
an electronic circuit that has a temperature characteristic being different from the one of the first oscillator circuit
Data Source
AI summary
A random number generating device includes: a microcomputer; a first oscillator circuit that has a predetermined temperature characteristic and generates a clock serving as a basis of a behavior of the microcomputer; and an electronic circuit that has a temperature characteristic being different from the predetermined temperature characteristic of the first oscillator circuit and operates in accordance with a command from the microcomputer. The microcomputer measures an operating time of the electronic circuit based upon the clock generated by the first oscillator circuit and generates a random number based upon a result of the measurement.