Polymer Synaptic Connections for Reprogrammable Neuromorphic Electronics

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current artificial neural networks lack the ability to effectively mimic natural neuromorphic mechanisms, such as synaptogenesis and plasticity, which are essential for advanced learning and memory functions.

Innovation Solution

An electronic device is configured to form polymer conductor pathways with neuromorphic properties by applying an electrical voltage between electrodes, allowing for the selective growth and adjustment of connections, influenced by signal frequency, bandwidth, and salt concentration, enabling repeated programming and neuromorphic properties.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If conventional artificial neural networks are used, then basic learning functions can be implemented, but the ability to effectively mimic natural neuromorphic mechanisms such as synaptogenesis and plasticity is lacking

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveneuromorphic propertiesVSAvoidreliability

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies parameter changes by utilizing frequency, bandwidth, signal shape, and voltage level of applied signals to control the growth and modification of polymer conductor pathways. By varying these electrical parameters, the system can dynamically adjust synaptic weights and create new connections, enabling neuromorphic properties while maintaining reliable operation through controlled physical processes

Inventive Principle:

Principle #35Parameter changes

Solution Approach 2:

The patent employs composite materials by combining polymer conductors with electrolytic materials to create synaptic junctions that exhibit both electrical conductivity and neuromorphic behavior. This composite structure allows the system to mimic biological synapses while providing the stability and reliability of engineered materials

Inventive Principle:

Principle #40Composite materials

2Adaptability or versatility

If polymer conductor pathways are formed to achieve neuromorphic properties, then neurological mimicry is improved, but the device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveneurological mimicryVSAvoiddevice complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies self-service by allowing polymer conductor pathways to grow and form connections autonomously in response to applied electrical signals. The system self-organizes synaptic structures without requiring external manipulation, reducing operational complexity while maintaining high neurological mimicry through emergent neuromorphic behavior

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

3Adaptability or versatility

If repeated programming with different neuromorphic properties is performed, then adaptability is improved, but the loss of time for reprogramming occurs

Engineering Contradiction:

Improverepeated programming capabilityVSAvoidreprogramming time

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies periodic action by using repeated electrical stimulation with specific frequency and duration to program synaptic connections. The periodic application of voltage signals enables controlled growth and modification of polymer pathways, allowing rapid reprogramming of neuromorphic properties through time-efficient cyclic processes

Inventive Principle:

Principle #19Periodic action

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

The electronic device achieves improved reliability and neurological mimicry by forming and adjusting electrical connections, mimicking natural neural networks, enabling advanced learning and memory functions.

Implementation Method 1

at least one electrical connection is made between the at least two electrodes, the at least one electrical connection including an electrically conductive polymer... by polymerizing the at least one polymerizable material to the electrically conductive polymer

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectElectropolymerization: Photopolymerisation

Implementation Method 2

an electrolytic material is disposed at least in a spatial region between the at least two electrodes, the electrolytic material including at least one polymerizable material

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectIonic conduction: Conduction (electrical)

Data Source

PatentUS11929391B2Electronic component and method of operating an electronic component

Publication Date: 2024.03.12 TECHNISCHE UNIVERSITAT DRESDEN

AI summary

Described herein is an electronic component that may include a substrate, wherein the substrate may include at least two electrodes, wherein the at least two electrodes are each spaced apart from each other on and/or within the substrate. When the electronic component is in a first operating state, an electrolytic material may be disposed at least in a spatial region between the at least two electrodes, wherein the electrolytic material comprises at least one polymerizable material. When the electronic device is in a second operating state, at least one electrical connection may be made between the at least two electrodes, wherein the at least one electrical connection comprises an electrically conductive polymer. The electrically conductive polymer may comprise one or more fiber structures, wherein the one or more fiber structures are in physical contact with the at least two electrodes.