Random Number Generator Using Transient Noise Sampling

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional digital circuit-based random number generators produce predictable random numbers, compromising the security of electronic transactions.

Innovation Solution

A random number generator that includes a signal generating unit to memorize noise from an output buffer, convert it into a frequency conversion signal varying with time and ambient factors, and a sampling unit to produce unpredictable random number codes using a sampling clock pulse.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Device complexity

If a pure digital circuit is employed to generate random numbers, then the device complexity is low, but the reliability of random number generation deteriorates because the numbers become predictable

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvedevice complexityVSAvoidreliability of random number generation

Core Design Contradiction:

Device complexityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent introduces an output buffer as an intermediary component between the digital circuit and the random number generation process. The output buffer generates transient noise during signal transitions, which is captured and used as a source of unpredictability. This intermediary element transforms the deterministic digital circuit into a system that produces unpredictable random numbers without significantly increasing overall device complexity.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent converts the harmful effect of noise and instability in digital circuits into a beneficial resource for random number generation. By capturing the transient noise generated during output buffer transitions, the system transforms what is typically considered a defect or interference into the core mechanism for generating unpredictable random numbers, thereby improving reliability without adding complex external components.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #22Blessing in disguise (Convert harm into benefit)

2Ease of manufacture

If conventional digital circuit methods are used, then ease of manufacture is high, but security deteriorates due to predictable random numbers

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveease of manufactureVSAvoidsecurity risk

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of manufactureVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

Inventive Principle:

Principle #22Blessing in disguise (Convert harm into benefit)

Solution Approach 2:

The system uses its own internal transient noise from the output buffer to generate random numbers, eliminating the need for external random number generation components. The digital circuit serves itself by utilizing its inherent electrical noise and transient behavior during signal transitions, thereby maintaining ease of manufacture while improving security.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

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

Generates unpredictable random numbers that enhance the security of electronic transactions by incorporating time and ambient factor variations, improving the reliability of random number generation.

Implementation Method 1

memorizing a status of a noise generated during a transient of an output signal of an output buffer

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectNoise generation during transient:

Implementation Method 2

converting the noise voltage, and accordingly obtaining a conversion current which varies according to the ambient factor

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectVoltage to current conversion:

Implementation Method 3

generating a frequency conversion signal which changes according to time and ambient factors

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectFrequency modulation by ambient factors:

Implementation Method 4

sampling the frequency conversion signal according to a sampling clock pulse, so as to obtain a plurality of sets of random number codes

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectSignal sampling:

Data Source

PatentUS8073888B2Random number generator and random number generating method thereof

Publication Date: 2011.12.06 PHISON ELECTRONICS

AI summary

A random number generator and a random number generating method thereof are provided. The random number generator includes a signal generating unit and a sampling unit. The signal generating unit is adapted for memorizing a status of a noise generated during a transient of an output signal of an output buffer, and accordingly generating a frequency conversion signal which changes according to time and ambient factors. The sampling unit is coupled to the signal generating unit for receiving the frequency conversion signal, and sampling the frequency conversion signal according to a sampling clock pulse, so as to obtain a plurality of sets of unpredictable random number codes.