Quantum Tunneling Noise Circuit Using Audio ADC Hardware
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing random number generators using quantum tunneling barriers are bulky and costly, with room for improvement in reducing size and price while maintaining randomness and efficiency.
Innovation Solution
A circuit with a quantum tunneling barrier and an audio amplifier, connected via a communication link to a computer's audio processing hardware, generates an analog random signal that is amplified and digitized for random number generation, utilizing standard audio components to reduce bulkiness and cost.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If existing random number generators using quantum tunneling barriers are used, then randomness quality is maintained, but device size and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies universality by using a standard audio amplifier, which is a mass-produced multi-functional component, to perform the specific function of amplifying quantum tunneling noise. This allows the random number generator to leverage existing audio processing hardware rather than requiring dedicated, bulky amplification circuits, thereby reducing device size while maintaining functionality
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies self-service by utilizing the computer's existing audio processing capabilities (analog-to-digital converter, processor) to complete the random number generation process. The external circuit only needs to provide the quantum noise source and basic amplification, while the computer handles digitization and processing, eliminating the need for additional bulky components in the external device
2Reliability
If existing random number generators using quantum tunneling barriers are used, then randomness quality is maintained, but device cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies this principle by replacing expensive, specialized components with inexpensive, mass-produced audio equipment. The use of a standard audio amplifier and leveraging the computer's built-in audio processing hardware dramatically reduces component costs while maintaining the core functionality of generating and processing quantum random noise
Solution Approach 2:
By using a universal audio amplifier designed for consumer audio applications rather than a specialized low-noise amplifier, the patent significantly reduces cost. The audio amplifier's ability to handle audio frequency ranges (including the quantum tunneling noise frequencies) makes it a cost-effective substitute for expensive specialized equipment
3Volume of stationary object
If audio amplifier is used to amplify quantum tunneling noise, then device size and cost are reduced, but signal amplification capability must be sufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies intermediary by using the audio amplifier as a mediator between the weak quantum tunneling noise source and the computer's analog-to-digital converter. The amplifier bridges the gap in signal levels, making the weak quantum noise suitable for digitization without requiring the quantum noise source itself to be high-power or the final device to be bulky
4Device complexity
If computer's audio processing hardware is used for digitization, then device complexity is reduced, but power supply requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies self-service by having the computer provide power to the external circuit through the USB connection. The computer, which already has power supply capabilities for its own components, also powers the quantum noise source and audio amplifier, eliminating the need for separate power supplies or batteries in the external device and reducing overall system complexity
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 effectively generates random numbers using low-cost, compact hardware, leveraging audio processing capabilities to digitize and utilize quantum tunneling noise within the audio frequency range, achieving a balance between cost, size, and randomness.
Implementation Method 1
a quantum tunnelling barrier mounted to the board, the quantum tunnelling barrier having an insulator having two exterior opposite faces each in contact with a corresponding one of two conductors and allowing charges to randomly tunnel from one of the conductors to the other conductor across the insulator
Implementation Method 2
an audio amplifier mounted to the board and configured for amplifying the analog random signal within an audio frequency range, the audio frequency range including frequencies below 20 kHz
Data Source
AI summary
There is described a system for generating at least one random number. The system generally has a circuit having a board, a quantum tunnelling barrier mounted to the board and generating an analog random signal, an audio amplifier mounted to the board and configured for amplifying the analog random signal within an audio frequency range, the audio frequency range including frequencies below 20 KHz, thereby generating an amplified analog random signal; a communication link communicatively coupled to the audio amplifier; and a computer being having a processor, a computer-readable memory and audio analog-to-digital converter in communication with the communication link, the computer-readable memory having stored thereon instructions that when executed by the processor perform the steps of: the audio analog-to-digital converter converting the amplified analog random signal into a digitized random signal; and the processor generating at least one random number based on the digitized random signal.