Vibration-Based Entropy Pool for True Random Number Generation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current random number generators, especially in electronic systems, face challenges in generating true randomness, leading to potential security compromises due to limited randomness in cryptographic keys, and existing methods like software pseudo-random number generators or noise-generator diodes are unreliable or deterministic.
Innovation Solution
A method utilizing machine vibration measurements, acquired by sensors and converted to digital form, to create a pool of entropy values for generating true random numbers, which are stored in a non-volatile memory for immediate availability, especially during system startup.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If software pseudo-random number generators are used, then random numbers can be generated, but the randomness is limited and security is compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces software-based pseudo-random number generation with a hardware-based system that captures mechanical vibrations from the machine environment. Sensors detect physical vibrations and convert them to electrical signals, which are then processed into random numbers. This mechanical-to-electrical substitution provides true entropy from physical phenomena rather than deterministic software algorithms.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces sensors as an intermediary between the mechanical vibration environment and the random number generation system. The sensors capture vibrations and convert them to electrical signals that can be processed by the computer system. This intermediary enables the extraction of entropy from the physical environment without direct mechanical coupling to the computational system.
2Reliability
If noise-generator diodes are used, then random numbers can be generated, but reliability is uncertain and the system is complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses existing vibration sensors already present in the machine for monitoring purposes and repurposes them for random number generation. Instead of adding dedicated random number generation hardware, the system copies the entropy extraction function from the existing sensor infrastructure, eliminating the need for separate noise-generator diodes and reducing overall system complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent makes the vibration sensors multi-functional by using them both for their original monitoring purpose and for random number generation. This universal usage eliminates the need for separate dedicated hardware components, reducing system complexity while maintaining reliable random number quality through the same physical entropy source.
3Reliability
If random numbers are generated during system operation, then randomness is available, but availability during system startup is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent collects and stores vibration data in a buffer during system operation before random numbers are needed. This preliminary accumulation of entropy data ensures that a sufficient pool of random numbers is available immediately at system startup, eliminating the need to wait for random number generation during the critical startup phase.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent maintains continuous collection of vibration data and accumulation of entropy in a buffer throughout system operation. This continuous preparation ensures that random numbers are always available, including during system startup, by maintaining an ongoing supply of entropy rather than generating random numbers only when requested.
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
This approach provides a reliable source of true randomness, enhancing security by ensuring constant availability of high-quality random numbers, reducing the risk of key compromise and improving system startup efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
acquiring, by at least one sensor, analog vibration data from the machine
Data Source
AI summary
Generating a pool of random numbers for use by computer applications. Vibration sensors are placed throughout a machine and collects information theoretic entropy data from the measurement of the vibration sensors. The data is then filtered and added to an entropy pool. Applications needing a random number may acquire a number from the pool. A method, computer program product and system to generate the pool are provided.