Photon Polarization Layout for Single-Detector Random Number Generation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional random number generation devices require multiple photon detectors, which increases complexity and cost.
Innovation Solution
A random number generation device that utilizes a single photon detection unit, employing a photon generation unit, first and second polarization units, and a random number generation unit to generate random numbers based on photon detection within a unit time period.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If multiple photon detectors are used to detect photons for each polarization state, then random number generation can be achieved, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple detection functions into a single photon detector by using a polarization beam splitter to separate photons into different polarization paths that both lead to the same detector. This merging approach maintains the ability to detect photons in different polarization states while reducing the total number of detectors from multiple to just one, thereby resolving the contradiction between reliability and device complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The single photon detector is designed to perform multiple detection functions by receiving photons from different polarization paths through the polarization beam splitter. This multi-functional design allows one detector to replace what would traditionally require multiple specialized detectors, achieving both reliability in random number generation and simplicity in device structure
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
Enables a compact and cost-effective random number generation device by eliminating the need for multiple photon detectors, allowing for random number generation with varying output values based on photon detection thresholds.
Implementation Method 1
a first polarization unit to convert a photon inputted to the first polarization unit into polarized light in a first polarization direction
Implementation Method 2
a second polarization unit to convert a photon inputted to the second polarization unit into polarized light in a second polarization direction
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2~4
Figure 5A~5B
AI summary
A random number generation device (1) includes: a photon generation unit (10) to generate and output a photon; a first polarization unit (20) to convert a photon inputted thereto into polarized light in a first polarization direction, and to output this polarized light; a second polarization unit (30) to convert a photon inputted thereto into polarized light in a second polarization direction, and to output this polarized light, the second polarization unit being able to change the second polarization direction; a photon detection unit (40) to receive a photon outputted from the photon generation unit via the first polarization unit and the second polarization unit, and to detect the photon; and a random number generation unit (50) to generate a random number using the number of photons detected by the photon detection unit.