On-Chip Quantum Random Number Generator Using Single-Photon Waveguides
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional random number generators produce pseudo-random numbers that can be predicted, and quantum random number generators are difficult to miniaturize due to the need for optical elements like polarized plates or mirrors, making them costly and challenging to integrate on-chip.
Innovation Solution
A compact on-chip random number generator using a single-photon emitter, waveguide, and detectors integrated on a substrate, where single photons emitted by the emitter are guided to output terminals and detected to generate unpredictable true random numbers, with optional optical or electrical pumping and resonator amplification for improved efficiency.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If quantum random number generators use optical elements like polarized plates or mirrors, then true unpredictable random numbers can be generated, but the device size increases and on-chip integration becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical/optical random number generation methods with a quantum-based electrical pumping system. Instead of using polarized plates or mirrors, the invention uses a quantum well structure with electrical pumping to generate unpredictable random numbers, enabling on-chip integration while maintaining true randomness
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the fundamental operating parameters from optical manipulation to quantum electrical pumping. By using electrical fields to pump carriers into quantum wells and extracting random signals from quantum tunneling processes, the system achieves miniaturization suitable for on-chip implementation
2Device complexity
If conventional random number generators use mathematical algorithms, then the device can be compact, but the generated numbers can be predicted and are not truly random
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces mathematical algorithm-based random number generation with quantum physical processes. By utilizing quantum tunneling and carrier injection in quantum wells, the system generates truly unpredictable random numbers while maintaining a compact structure suitable for on-chip integration
3Reliability
If quantum random number generators are implemented with complete quantum optical systems, then true random numbers can be generated, but the manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces expensive quantum optical components with a semiconductor-based quantum well structure that can be manufactured using standard semiconductor fabrication processes. The electrical pumping mechanism and quantum tunneling detection can be integrated into existing CMOS technology, significantly reducing manufacturing costs
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the material and operational parameters from optical quantum systems to electrical quantum systems. By using semiconductor quantum wells with electrical pumping and detection, the invention leverages established semiconductor manufacturing processes, making quantum random number generation cost-effective
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 enables the generation of unpredictable true random numbers using a quantum mechanical principle in a compact, cost-effective on-chip format, overcoming the limitations of conventional generators and maintaining high detection efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
a quantum random number generator, which may generate an unpredictable true random number by using a quantum mechanical principle
Implementation Method 2
a waveguide configured to guide the single photons emitted from the single-photon emitter to the inside of the waveguide
Implementation Method 3
a resonator configured to optically amplify the single photons emitted from the single-photon emitter
Implementation Method 4
a first single-photon detector and a second single-photon detector respectively provided at the first output terminal and the second output terminal and configured to detect the single photons
Data Source
AI summary
Provided is a random number generator including a single-photon emitter configured to emit single photons by pumping, a waveguide configured to guide the single photons emitted from the single-photon emitter to the inside of the waveguide, the waveguide including a first output terminal and a second output terminal that are respectively provided at both end portions of the waveguide, the single photons being output from the first output terminal and the second output terminal, and a first single-photon detector and a second single-photon detector respectively provided at the first output terminal and the second output terminal and configured to detect the single photons output from the first output terminal and the second output terminal, respectively.