Multiple Output Quantum Random Number Generator Using Optical Hybrid
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional quantum random number generators based on quantum phase noise require complex setups like Mach-Zhender interferometers and precise temperature control, limiting their speed and output to single-channel operation, making them unsuitable for high-speed and multiple output applications.
Innovation Solution
A multiple output quantum random number generator that coherently measures optical source noise using an optical hybrid to mix and divide input noises into in-phase and quadrature components, processed by multiple detectors and AD converters to generate true random number sequences, allowing for high-speed and multiple output capabilities.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a Mach-Zhender interferometer is used to measure quantum phase noise, then true random number generation is achieved, but the device complexity increases and temperature control is required
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the essential function of phase noise measurement from the complex Mach-Zhender interferometer setup. By using only a light source and optical detector without the interferometer, it isolates and measures the quantum phase noise directly, eliminating the need for complex interference path management and temperature control while maintaining true random number generation capability
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary approach by converting phase noise measurements into amplitude noise measurements. The optical detector acts as an intermediary that transforms the quantum phase fluctuations into detectable amplitude variations, enabling random number generation without requiring direct phase measurement through complex interferometric setups
2Reliability
If a single photon detector is used for quantum random number generation, then true randomness is achieved, but the speed is limited to several decades of MHz
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical/single-photon detection system with an optical field-based measurement system. Instead of detecting individual photons sequentially at MHz rates, it uses continuous optical field measurement with optical detectors that operate at GHz frequencies, substituting the slow single-photon counting mechanism with faster optical field detection while preserving quantum randomness
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the measurement parameter from single-photon arrival times to continuous optical field amplitude variations. By measuring the amplitude noise of the optical field rather than counting individual photons, the system achieves GHz-speed operation while maintaining true quantum randomness through the inherent quantum phase noise of the light source
3Productivity
If a conventional quantum random number generator is used, then single output is produced, but multiple output capability is needed for high-speed applications
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the single random number output into multiple independent random number streams. By using multiple optical detectors to simultaneously measure different aspects of the optical field (such as in-phase and quadrature components), it generates multiple independent random number outputs from a single light source, increasing productivity while maintaining versatility
Solution Approach 2:
The patent makes the system multi-functional by enabling it to produce multiple random number outputs simultaneously from a single measurement setup. The optical detection system is configured to extract multiple independent random streams, allowing the same hardware to serve multiple applications and enhancing both productivity and adaptability without requiring separate generator systems
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 the generation of true random number sequences at ultrahigh speeds (GHz) with multiple outputs, overcoming the limitations of conventional systems by independently measuring and processing in-phase and quadrature components, thus enhancing speed and output capacity.
Implementation Method 1
an optical hybrid including first and second input ports to which optical source noises are respectively input, the optical hybrid configured to mix a first optical source noise input to the first input port and a second optical source noise input to the second input port and to divide a mixed optical source noise into an in-phase component and a quadrature component
Implementation Method 2
a plurality of optical detectors configured to respectively convert optical source noises of in-phase components and optical source noises of quadrature components that are output from the optical hybrid into electric noises
Data Source
AI summary
A multiple output quantum random number generator coherently measures an optical source noise and outputs a random number sequence based on the independent and coherent measurement of optical source noise. Therefore, it is possible to output a random number sequence at a high speed and to perform multiple outputs.