Random Number Generator Using Magnetic Tunnel Junction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing random number generation methods produce pseudo-random numbers with periodicity, making them vulnerable and unsuitable for practical applications, as they can be perfectly reproduced if the initial value is specified.
Innovation Solution
A random number generator using a magnetic tunnel junction (MTJ) element that inverts the magnetization of a magnetic layer stochastically, with a sequence control circuit regulating the write and read operations to ensure the magnetization is read after a deactivation period longer than the write period, thereby generating true random numbers without periodicity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If mathematical algorithms are used to generate random numbers, then the generation process is simple and fast, but the numbers have periodicity and vulnerability
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces mathematical algorithms with a physical system based on magnetic tunnel junction elements. The stochastic magnetization inversion process in the MTJ element provides true randomness through quantum mechanical effects, eliminating the periodicity and vulnerability inherent in algorithmic approaches while maintaining generation speed through efficient read operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the fundamental parameter of randomness generation from computational determination to physical stochastic processes. By utilizing the probabilistic nature of magnetization inversion in MTJ elements, the system transitions from pseudo-random to true random number generation, fundamentally altering the source and quality of randomness.
2Productivity
If the magnetization is read immediately after writing, then the operation cycle is short and productivity is high, but charge accumulation causes periodicity in generated numbers
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by introducing a deactivation period between write and read operations. During this period, charges are allowed to discharge completely before the next read operation, ensuring that each random number generation starts from a neutral charge state. This preliminary discharge action eliminates charge accumulation effects while maintaining acceptable operation cycles.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements a structured periodic action with distinct phases: write period, deactivation period, and read period. This periodic structure ensures that charges are discharged during the deactivation phase before each read operation, creating a consistent starting condition that eliminates periodicity in the generated random numbers while maintaining efficient operation cycling.
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 improves the quality of generated random numbers by ensuring the accumulation of charges is zero before reading, reducing the periodicity and vulnerability of the numbers, resulting in more reliable and secure random number generation.
Implementation Method 1
a write circuit that inverts magnetization of a magnetic layer of a magnetic tunnel junction element stochastically by supplying current to the magnetic layer
Implementation Method 2
there has been proposed a method of inverting magnetization of a magnetic layer of a magnetic tunnel junction element by supplying current to the magnetic layer a plurality of times, and reading magnetization after a period of time has elapsed from when the current supply is finished
Data Source
AI summary
A random number generator according to one embodiment includes a write circuit, a read circuit, and a signal output circuit. The write circuit inverts magnetization of a magnetic layer of a magnetic tunnel junction element stochastically by supplying current to the magnetic layer. The read circuit reads the magnetization. The signal output circuit generates a random number on the basis of the magnetization read by the read circuit. The random number generator includes a sequence control circuit that controls the write circuit and the read circuit. The sequence control circuit regulates the write circuit to supply the current to the write circuit in a first period, and causes the read circuit to read the magnetization after the first period is finished and then a second period longer than the first period is elapsed.