Method and apparatus for generating true random numbers by way of a quantum optics process
US7519641B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Aug 17, 2004 |
| Grant date | Apr 14, 2009 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Jun 25, 2026 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC H)Electricity
- CPC primaryH04L9/0852
- WIPO fieldDigital communication
- WIPO sectorElectrical engineering
Abstract
A method and apparatus for generating true random numbers by way of a quantum optics process uses a light source to produce a beam which illuminates a detector array. The detectors of the array are associated with random numbers values. Detection of a photon by one of the detectors yields a number whose value is equal to that associated with the detector. This procedure is repeated to produce sequences of true random numbers. The randomness of the numbers stems from the transverse spatial distribution of the detection probability of the photons in the beam. If the array is made up of two detectors, the true random numbers produced are binary numbers. The process can be sped up using an array having pairs of two detectors. Using an array having more than two detectors also allows generating true random numbers of dimension higher than two. The primary object of the invention is to allow generating true random numbers by way of a quantum optics process.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.