The patent badge is an abbreviated version of the USPTO patent document. The patent badge does contain a link to the full patent document.
The patent badge is an abbreviated version of the USPTO patent document. The patent badge covers the following: Patent number, Date patent was issued, Date patent was filed, Title of the patent, Applicant, Inventor, Assignee, Attorney firm, Primary examiner, Assistant examiner, CPCs, and Abstract. The patent badge does contain a link to the full patent document (in Adobe Acrobat format, aka pdf). To download or print any patent click here.
Patent No.:
Date of Patent:
Apr. 02, 2013
Filed:
Jul. 30, 2009
Markus Dichtl, München, DE;
Bernd Meyer, München, DE;
Markus Dichtl, München, DE;
Bernd Meyer, München, DE;
Siemens Aktiengesellschaft, Munich, DE;
Abstract
An apparatus for generating a random bit sequence has a ring oscillator which includes inverting digital devices and on which an oscillator signal can be tapped. An intermediate storage element monitors and stores fluctuating levels of the oscillator signal. At least two controllable switch devices for simultaneously exciting at least two harmonic wave edges of the ring oscillator are provided in a signal path of the ring oscillator. The phasing of the two harmonic wave edges and a potential convergence thereof are subject to statistical fluctuations, which are used as a basis for the random bit generation. A corresponding random number generator can be used in particular as an FPGA for security applications, such as cryptographic methods. The apparatus has substantially digital components, which are easy to produce in a standardized manner. A dedicated regulating circuit is not necessary. The apparatus is also robust toward exterior influences.