Optical Spin-Wave Majority Logic with 2D Input Layout

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing majority logic devices using spin waves are limited to one-dimensional configurations, restricting circuit flexibility and compatibility with optical signals, and require electrical pulsed magnetic fields for input, hindering sophisticated integration with optical communications.

Innovation Solution

A majority logic device utilizing a nonmagnetic semiconductor layer that generates electron spin waves with different phases based on polarization states, allowing for two-dimensional input section arrangements and optical signal input, with deviations in input section distances within 25% of the wavelength.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Device complexity

If input sections are arranged in one dimension along a linear ferromagnetic waveguide, then the device structure is simple, but the circuit configuration flexibility is limited

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedevice structureVSAvoidcircuit configuration flexibility
Core Design Contradiction:
Device complexityVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The patent transitions from one-dimensional linear arrangement of input sections along a ferromagnetic waveguide to two-dimensional arrangement by introducing a semiconductor layer where input sections can be positioned at different locations and orientations, enabling diverse circuit configurations while maintaining structural simplicity

Inventive Principle:
Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

2Extent of automation

If electrical pulsed magnetic fields are used to generate magnons, then the logic operation can be performed, but the compatibility with optical signals is poor

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvelogic operation capabilityVSAvoidcompatibility with optical signals
Core Design Contradiction:
Extent of automationVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces the electrical pulsed magnetic field system with an optical field system by introducing a semiconductor layer that generates electron spin waves through optical excitation, enabling direct compatibility with optical signals while maintaining logic operation capability

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent changes the input signal parameter from electrical magnetic fields to optical fields, allowing the same logic device to operate with optical signals directly, thereby improving compatibility with optical communication systems

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

3Reliability

If gaps are provided between logic input sections to prevent spin wave mixing, then signal interference is reduced, but the circuit configuration flexibility is reduced

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesignal interference preventionVSAvoidcircuit configuration flexibility
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies different properties to different regions: the semiconductor layer provides localized spin wave generation at each input section position, allowing sections to be closely spaced without mixing because each section's spin wave generation is locally controlled by its specific optical excitation position and polarization state

Inventive Principle:
Principle #3Local quality

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 high flexibility in circuit configuration and improved compatibility with optical signals, enabling diverse circuit designs and efficient integration with optical communications.

Implementation Method 1

a nonmagnetic semiconductor layer which, upon irradiation of light having at least two mutually different polarization states, generates electron spin waves having different phases depending on the polarization states

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectOptical generation of electron spin waves: Photoelectric Effect

Data Source

PatentEP4579378A1Majority-decision logic device, photoelectric conversion device, optical communication logic device, and method for controlling majority-decision logic device
Publication Date: 2025.07.02 THE JAPAN SCI & TECH AGENCY
  • EP4579378A1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP4579378A1 patent drawingFigure 2
  • EP4579378A1 patent drawingFigure 3

AI summary

A majority logic device 1 comprises a nonmagnetic semiconductor layer 10 comprising a material which, upon irradiation of light having at least two mutually different polarization states, generates electron spin waves having different phases depending on the polarization states. The nonmagnetic semiconductor layer 10 comprises three or more input sections for inputting optical signals and at least one output section for outputting the result of interference of the electron spin waves. The length of the projection of the distance between adjacent input sections as projected in the oscillating direction of the electron spin waves is an integer multiple of the wavelength of the electron spin waves.