Neuron Circuit Reset with Bipolar Memristor

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing neuron circuits with unipolar memristors cannot be reset, limiting their application to neuron circuits with bipolar memristors, which are being researched and developed.

Innovation Solution

A neuron circuit design incorporating a bipolar memristor with a positive and negative threshold voltage, utilizing capacitors and switches to apply negative voltage for reset operations, allowing for the implementation of a reset method applicable to both unipolar and bipolar memristors.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of manufacture

If a unipolar memristor is used in a neuron circuit, then the circuit can be implemented with simpler reset methods, but the reset method cannot be applied to bipolar memristor neuron circuits

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveease of reset implementationVSAvoidapplicability to different memristor types
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of manufactureVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The patent designs a neuron circuit with a bipolar memristor that can be reset using negative voltage pulses, making the circuit universally applicable to both unipolar and bipolar memristor types. The circuit incorporates additional components (second capacitor, first diode, second switch) that enable the reset function to work across different memristor configurations, achieving multi-functionality and broad adaptability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Adaptability or versatility

If a bipolar memristor is used in a neuron circuit, then the circuit becomes applicable to various memristor types, but the circuit requires additional components for reset operations

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveapplicability to different memristor typesVSAvoidcircuit structure complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent divides the neuron circuit into distinct functional modules: the main neuron circuit core and the reset circuit components (second capacitor, first diode, second switch). This segmentation allows the reset function to be added as a separate module that can be integrated with bipolar memristor circuits without fundamentally redesigning the entire circuit architecture, thereby managing complexity through modular design.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

3Reliability

If reset operations are implemented for bipolar memristors, then consistent behavior across different memristor types is achieved, but negative voltage application is required

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveconsistent neuron behaviorVSAvoidvoltage control complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements a feedback mechanism where the reset circuit monitors the state of the bipolar memristor and applies negative voltage pulses through the second switch when resetting is required. This feedback-based control ensures that the memristor returns to its initial state reliably, achieving consistent neuron behavior across different memristor types while automating the voltage control process.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

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

Enables the reset of neuron circuits with bipolar memristors, ensuring consistent behavior across different types of memristor-based neuron circuits, facilitating the development and operation of neuromorphic computing systems.

Implementation Method 1

A memristor is a device having resistance characteristics, wherein the resistance value is not constant, and the resistance value changes according to a specific voltage pulse applied across the memristor.

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectMemristive effect: Electrical Resistance

Implementation Method 2

a first capacitor configured to be connected between the one end of the bipolar memristor and a ground

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectCapacitance: Capacitance

Implementation Method 3

a first diode configured to have an anode connected to the one end of the bipolar component

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectDiode rectification: Diode

Implementation Method 4

a first switch configured to be connected between the one end of the second capacitor and the ground, and a second switch configured to be connected between the anode of the first diode and the other end of the second capacitor

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElectrical switching: Valve

Data Source

PatentUS11977973B2Neuron circuit and operating method thereof
Publication Date: 2024.05.07 ELECTRONICS & TELECOMM RES INST
  • US11977973B2 patent drawing
  • US11977973B2 patent drawing
  • US11977973B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A neuron circuit and an operating method thereof are disclosed. The neuron circuit may include an input unit to which an input pulse is applied, a bipolar memristor configured to have one end connected to one end of the input unit, a first capacitor configured to be connected between the one end of the bipolar memristor and a ground, a first diode configured to have an anode connected to the one end of the bipolar component, a second capacitor configured to have one end connected to a cathode of the first diode, a first switch configured to be connected between the one end of the second capacitor and the ground, and a second switch configured to be connected between the anode of the first diode and the other end of the second capacitor.