A method for generating random numbers includes the steps of providing a liquid
crystal cell containing a liquid crystal material, wherein a potential difference
is applied across said liquid crystal material to cause a chaotic turbulent flow.
The resulting flow or physical result of the liquid crystal material is measured
to generate a baseline measurement, and subsequently the at least one physical
property is measured again to generate a plurality of reading measurements. Determining
the difference between each of the reading measurements and the baseline measurement,
and setting bits based on the differences generates a sequence of random numbers.
An apparatus for generating random numbers is also disclosed. These truly random
numbers may then be used to encrypt data prior to transmission.