Nanomaterial Transistor True Random Number Generator
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current random number generators, both pseudo-random and true random, face limitations such as determinism, vulnerability to attacks, large size, high power requirements, and environmental vulnerabilities, necessitating an improved solution for generating secure and reliable random numbers.
Innovation Solution
A true random number generator utilizing a transistor with conductive nanomaterial channels and a comparator to classify random telegraph signals, allowing for the generation of random numbers through voltage applications and defect-induced resistance changes, resulting in a compact, low-power device.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If current true random number generators use noise in electronic devices, atmospheric variations, radiation decay times, or photon detection, then random sequences can be generated, but the device size becomes large
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the physical scale parameter by transitioning from macroscopic random phenomena (atmospheric variations, photon detection) to nanoscale phenomena (telegraph noise in individual nanotubes). This parameter change enables random number generation in a compact form factor while maintaining the randomness quality through quantum-level stochastic processes.
2Reliability
If current true random number generators use noise in electronic devices, atmospheric variations, radiation decay times, or photon detection, then random sequences can be generated, but power requirements become high
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the energy consumption parameter by utilizing intrinsic telegraph noise phenomena that occur naturally at the nanoscale without requiring high-power amplification or detection systems. The random signal generation occurs passively through defect-induced trapping/detrapping processes in individual nanotubes, eliminating the need for high-power electronic noise sources or photon detection systems.
3Productivity
If pseudo-random number generators use mathematical algorithms to transform input seeds, then generation speed is fast, but the sequences become deterministic and periodic
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical/computational system of pseudo-random generation (mathematical algorithms and seed transformations) with a physical system based on quantum-level stochastic processes. Telegraph noise in individual nanotubes provides truly random sequences through inherent quantum fluctuations and defect dynamics, eliminating determinism and periodicity while maintaining high generation speeds through direct electrical measurement.
4Reliability
If current true random number generators use noise in electronic devices, atmospheric variations, radiation decay times, or photon detection, then random sequences can be generated, but vulnerability to environmental factors increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the environmental stability parameter by operating at the nanoscale where telegraph noise phenomena are intrinsic to the material's quantum behavior rather than responses to external environmental conditions. The defect-induced trapping/detrapping processes in individual nanotubes occur independently of temperature, radiation, or atmospheric variations, providing environmentally robust 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
The solution provides a compact, low-power true random number generator that leverages random telegraph signals for secure and reliable random number generation, suitable for applications requiring radiation resistance and minimal size, such as unattended sensor networks and satellites.
Implementation Method 1
The measured electrical property varies over time due to random telegraph signals due to defects in the transistor
Data Source
AI summary
A true random number generator including a transistor, a first voltage source, a second voltage source, and a comparator. The transistor has a first electrode, a second electrode, and a third electrode. Two of the electrodes are electrically connected by a channel of conductive nanomaterial. The first voltage source is electrically connected to the first electrode and the second voltage source is electrically connected to the second electrode. The comparator is electrically connected to the third electrode and is configured to classify a measured electrical property at the third electrode as either HIGH or LOW based on a comparison of the measured electrical property with a reference value. The measured electrical property varies over time due to random telegraph signals (RTSs) due to defects in the transistor.