Stochastic Magnetic Tunnel Junction RNG With AC-Driven State Switching

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing random number generation methods, such as the mid square method and Mersenne Twister, produce numbers with periodicity and correlation, making them predictable, which undermines their security and randomness.

Innovation Solution

A random number generator utilizing an unstable magnetic tunneling junction structure with parallel and anti-parallel magnetization states, powered by AC voltage/current, to generate true random numbers through stochastic fluctuations.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If a stable magnetic tunneling junction structure is used for memory storage, then data storage reliability is improved, but random number generation capability deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvedata storage reliabilityVSAvoidrandom number generation capability

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The patent divides the magnetic tunneling junction system into two distinct parts: a stable MTJ structure for memory storage and an unstable MTJ structure for random number generation. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized for its specific function without compromising the other, resolving the contradiction between storage reliability and RNG capability.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent demonstrates that the magnetic tunneling junction structure can serve multiple functions: stable MTJs for data storage and unstable MTJs for random number generation. By controlling the magnetization states differently, the same basic structure achieves both memory storage and cryptographic random number generation, eliminating the need for separate systems.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Ease of operation

If deterministic random number generation methods are used, then implementation simplicity is improved, but randomness quality deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveimplementation simplicityVSAvoidrandomness quality

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces deterministic algorithmic random number generation with a physical stochastic system. The unstable magnetic tunneling junction structure utilizes quantum mechanical tunneling randomness to generate truly random numbers, eliminating the periodicity and predictability inherent in software-based methods while maintaining implementation simplicity through direct hardware utilization.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

3Reliability

If an unstable magnetic tunneling junction structure is used for random number generation, then randomness quality is improved, but structural stability deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:

Improverandomness qualityVSAvoidstructural stability

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSStability of the object's composition

Solution Approach 1:

The patent separates the system into stable and unstable MTJ components, assigning different functional roles to each. The stable MTJs maintain fixed magnetization for storage, while the unstable MTJs exhibit stochastic switching for random number generation. This segmentation allows the unstable structure to be used for RNG without compromising overall system stability.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent controls the stability parameter of the magnetic tunneling junction by adjusting the magnetization state configuration. By applying specific current pulses or voltage conditions, the system can transition between stable and unstable states, enabling the same physical structure to serve both storage and random number generation functions as needed.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #35Parameter changes

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 generator produces highly unpredictable random numbers by leveraging the stochastic switching of magnetization states in the magnetic tunneling junction, effectively suppressing gradual changes and enhancing randomness.

Implementation Method 1

A magnetic tunneling junction structure is a structure in which an insulating layer is disposed between two magnetic layers

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectQuantum tunneling:

Implementation Method 2

One of the two magnetic layers has uniform magnetization directions fixed in a predetermined direction and the other one has magnetization directions that are parallel or anti-parallel, thereby storing information

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectMagnetoresistance: Magnetoresistance

Data Source

PatentUS12477954B2Random number generator using stochastic magnetic tunneling junction structure

Publication Date: 2025.11.18 KOREA INST OF SCI & TECH

AI summary

A random number generator using a stochastic magnetic tunneling junction structure is proposed. The random number generator includes: a first magnetic tunneling junction structure including a first pinned layer, a first tunnel junction layer, and a first free layer that are sequentially stacked, and stochastically having a parallel state and an anti-parallel state in which a magnetization direction of the first pinned layer and a magnetization direction of the first free layer is parallel and anti-parallel, respectively; and a first power supplier connected to the first magnetic tunneling junction structure and configured to supply AC voltage/current to the first magnetic tunneling junction structure.