Quantum Tunneling Barrier Random Number Generator

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing random number generators rely on pseudo-random algorithms and deterministic approaches, which can be predictable and insecure, lacking true randomness essential for applications like cryptography and scientific studies.

Innovation Solution

Harnessing the inherently random nature of quantum mechanics by using a quantum tunnelling barrier to generate random numbers through the random tunnelling of charges across an insulator layer, amplified and filtered to produce true random numbers.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If pseudo-random algorithms and deterministic approaches are used, then random numbers can be generated at a high rate using simple devices, but the generated numbers are predictable and insecure

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesecurity and unpredictabilityVSAvoidcomplexity of electronic components
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces deterministic electronic random number generation with quantum mechanical processes. Specifically, it uses quantum tunneling of charges across an insulator layer to generate inherently random numbers, substituting classical electronic mechanisms with quantum phenomena that provide true randomness and security.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

2Reliability

If quantum tunnelling effect is used, then true random numbers can be generated that are resistant to prediction, but the device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvetrueness of randomnessVSAvoidcomplexity of quantum tunnelling barrier structure
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent changes the fundamental parameter of randomness generation from deterministic electronic processes to quantum mechanical tunneling processes. By adjusting the biasing voltage across the quantum tunneling barrier and controlling the tunneling conditions, the system generates true random numbers while managing device complexity through parameter optimization.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

3Reliability

If quantum tunnelling charges are used to generate random signal, then true random numbers can be produced, but the signal requires filtering and amplification

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvequality of random signalVSAvoidcomplexity of signal processing components
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent introduces intermediary components (filtering and amplification stages) between the quantum tunneling source and the final random number output. These intermediaries process the raw quantum signal to extract and amplify the random components while suppressing noise and deterministic artifacts, thereby improving signal quality.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

4Productivity

If high rate random number generation is achieved through quantum tunnelling, then productivity increases, but the device requires precise gauging and control

Engineering Contradiction:
Improverate of random number generationVSAvoidease of biasing and control
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements feedback mechanisms to precisely gauge and control the quantum tunneling process. By monitoring the tunneling current and adjusting the biasing voltage accordingly, the system maintains optimal operating conditions for high-rate random number generation while managing the complexity of precise control.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

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 rapid and secure generation of true random numbers, resistant to prediction, using simple electronic components and potentially high rates of random number production.

Implementation Method 1

the inherently random nature of quantum mechanics can be harnessed for random number generation. More specifically, there is provided a method for generating random numbers that involve charges (negatively-charged electrons or positively-charged holes) randomly tunnelling across a quantum tunnelling barrier

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectQuantum tunnelling:

Data Source

PatentEP3140818B1Method for generating random numbers and associated random number generator
Publication Date: 2020.02.19 QUANTUM NUMBERS CORP
  • EP3140818B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP3140818B1 patent drawingFigure 2~3
  • EP3140818B1 patent drawingFigure 4

AI summary

A random signal can be obtained from a random tunnelling of charges from one conductor to another conductor across a quantum tunnelling barrier. The random signal can be amplified and associated to a random number. The association can be performed repetitively to generate a sequence of random numbers.