Optoelectronic Computing System Matrix Multiplication
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current optoelectronic computing systems face challenges in efficiently performing matrix multiplication operations, which are crucial for artificial neural networks, due to limitations in combining optical and electrical signals effectively.
Innovation Solution
The proposed optoelectronic computing system integrates a photonic integrated circuit (PIC) with optical waveguides, optical splitters, and optoelectronic circuitry sections, along with an electronic integrated circuit, to perform matrix multiplication operations by encoding input values on optical signals and using optical amplitude modulators for multiplication.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Speed
If optical signals are used for data transport and switching, then data transmission speed and distance are improved, but the ability to perform computational operations on the optical signals is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses optical modulators as intermediary devices that can be controlled by electrical signals to perform computational operations on optical data signals. The modulators translate electrical control signals into optical modulation, enabling multiplication and other operations while maintaining optical signal transmission advantages.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces traditional electronic computational mechanisms with optical-based operations using modulators and interferometers. By using optical interference and modulation instead of electronic processing, the system achieves computation in the optical domain, resolving the limitation of performing operations on optical signals.
2Adaptability or versatility
If electrical signals are used for computing operations, then computational flexibility and operation types are improved, but power consumption and heat generation increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent substitutes electrical computational operations with optical operations performed through modulator-controlled interference patterns. The computation is achieved through optical field interactions rather than electronic current processing, significantly reducing power consumption while maintaining computational flexibility.
Solution Approach 2:
The optical computing system performs computations using the optical signals themselves as both data carriers and computational operands. The optical interference and modulation processes inherently perform mathematical operations without requiring separate power-intensive electronic processing stages.
3Productivity
If optical signals are used for matrix multiplication operations, then computing throughput is improved, but system complexity and integration difficulty increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges optical waveguides, modulators, and interferometers into integrated photonic circuits that can perform matrix multiplication operations. By combining multiple optical components into unified integrated structures, the system achieves high computing throughput while managing complexity through integration rather than discrete component assembly.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent designs optical modulators and interferometer networks that can perform multiple computational functions including multiplication, addition, and other operations required for matrix multiplication. This multi-functionality reduces the number of specialized components needed, thereby reducing overall system complexity while maintaining high throughput.
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
This system enables efficient matrix multiplication operations, enhancing the computing throughput and reducing power consumption by leveraging the strengths of both optical and electrical signal processing.
Implementation Method 1
optical amplitude modulators for multiplication
Implementation Method 2
at least one photodetector detecting at least one optical wave from the optoelectronic operation
Implementation Method 3
a plurality of optical waveguides, wherein a set of multiple input values are encoded on respective optical signals carried by the optical waveguides
Data Source
AI summary
An optoelectronic computing system includes a first semiconductor die having a photonic integrated circuit (PIC) and a second semiconductor die having an electronic integrated circuit (EIC). The PIC includes optical waveguides, in which input values are encoded on respective optical signals carried by the optical waveguides. The PIC includes an optical copying distribution network having optical splitters. The PIC includes an array of optoelectronic circuitry sections, each receiving an optical wave from one of the output ports of the optical copying distribution network, and each optoelectronic circuitry section includes: at least one photodetector detecting at least one optical wave from the optoelectronic operation. The EIC includes electrical input ports receiving respective electrical values. The first semiconductor die and the second semiconductor die are electrically coupled in a controlled collapse chip connection, with the electrical output port of the PIC connected to one of the electrical input ports of the EIC.