Crossbar Neuromorphic Computing for Large Input Neuron Processing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing neuromorphic computing hardware is limited by the physical size of crossbars, which restricts the number of synapses that can be processed, leading to issues when large-scale neural networks exceed the maximum number of axons that can be allocated to a node.
Innovation Solution
A neuromorphic computing method that groups input neurons based on the maximum number of axons allowed by the crossbar size, using bypass paths to transfer spike outputs through routers, allowing processing of large input neurons by associating multiple crossbars and nodes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If the crossbar size is increased to process more input neurons, then the processing capability for large-scale neural networks is improved, but the hardware complexity and cost increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the neural network processing into multiple segments by grouping input neurons. Instead of requiring a single large crossbar to handle all input neurons simultaneously, the system processes neurons in groups that fit within the crossbar's axon capacity. This segmentation allows large-scale neural networks to be processed using smaller, more manageable crossbar units, reducing hardware complexity while maintaining processing capability.
2Quantity of substance
If the number of axons in a crossbar is increased to accommodate more input neurons, then the number of processable neurons is improved, but the physical size and area of the crossbar increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a temporal dimension to the processing architecture by implementing sequential processing of neuron groups. Instead of expanding the crossbar area to accommodate all neurons simultaneously, the system processes neurons in time-sequential batches. Multiple groups of input neurons are processed sequentially, with each group fitting within the existing crossbar area, thereby increasing the total number of processable neurons without increasing physical crossbar size.
3Productivity
If multiple crossbars are used to process large inputs, then the processing capacity is improved, but the system complexity and interconnection requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple processing operations into a unified sequential processing framework. Instead of managing completely independent crossbar units with complex interconnections, the system combines multiple crossbars into a coordinated system where each crossbar processes specific neuron groups. The control logic unifies the operation of multiple crossbars, managing data flow and coordination to reduce overall system complexity while maintaining enhanced processing capacity.
Data Source
AI summary
A neuromorphic computing method includes comparing a maximum number of axons in which a size of a crossbar of a hardware-based node is considered with a number of input neurons, when the number of input neurons exceeds the maximum number of axons, grouping some of input neurons in consideration of the maximum number of axons, obtaining a spike output for a generated group, and inputting the spike output, together with remaining input neurons that are not included in the group, to any one node, and then processing the spike output.


