SOT-Based Spin Torque Oscillators for Neural Network Synchronization

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing oscillatory neural networks face challenges in practical implementation due to difficulties in synchronizing oscillation frequencies of spin torque oscillators with input signal frequencies, affecting the efficiency of information communication between neurons.

Innovation Solution

Implementing spin orbit torque (SOT)-based spin torque oscillator (STO) circuits with a spin Hall effect layer that generates a spin current, allowing the oscillation frequency to synchronize with input signal frequencies, thereby enhancing the synchronization and communication of frequency domain components between neurons.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If conventional spin torque oscillators are used in oscillatory neural networks, then the basic oscillation function is achieved, but the synchronization of oscillation frequencies with input signal frequencies is difficult, reducing information communication efficiency

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesynchronization accuracyVSAvoidinformation communication efficiency
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent changes the physical parameters of the STO by introducing a spin Hall effect layer, which modifies the oscillation frequency characteristics through spin-orbit coupling. This allows the oscillation frequency to be tuned and synchronized with input signal frequencies, resolving the synchronization accuracy problem while maintaining communication efficiency

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

Solution Approach 2:

The patent employs a composite structure combining a spin Hall effect layer with the STO circuit. This composite material approach enables the generation of spin current that couples with the magnetic moment, providing enhanced frequency synchronization capability without sacrificing information communication efficiency

Inventive Principle:
Principle #40Composite materials

2Productivity

If the oscillation frequency of STOs is synchronized with input signal frequencies, then information communication between neurons is enhanced, but the device complexity increases due to additional spin Hall effect layer

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveinformation communication efficiencyVSAvoidstructure complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent merges the spin Hall effect layer with the STO circuit into a single integrated structure. The spin Hall effect layer is positioned adjacent to the STO, allowing spin current to be generated and coupled directly with the magnetic moment without requiring separate control systems, thus enhancing communication efficiency while minimizing structural complexity

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The spin Hall effect layer automatically generates spin current in response to applied current, which then couples with the magnetic moment of the STO to enable frequency synchronization. This self-service mechanism eliminates the need for external frequency control systems, improving information communication efficiency without proportionally increasing device complexity

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

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 SOT-based STO circuits improve the synchronization of oscillation frequencies with input signal frequencies, increasing the magnitude of frequency domain components and enhancing the information communication between neurons in oscillatory neural networks.

Implementation Method 1

each SOT-based STO circuit includes a spin Hall effect layer that generates a spin current in response to an input electrical current

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectSpin Hall Effect: Hall Effect

Implementation Method 2

The spin current provides a spin orbit torque that causes a magnetization direction of a magnetic layer adjacent to it to oscillate

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectSpin Orbit Torque:

Implementation Method 3

the oscillation frequency of each SOT-based STO may synchronize to an input signal frequency if the oscillation frequency is close to the input signal frequency

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectFrequency Synchronization: Resonance

Data Source

PatentUS11393516B2SOT-based spin torque oscillators for oscillatory neural networks
Publication Date: 2022.07.19 WESTERN DIGITAL TECHNOLOGIES INC
  • US11393516B2 patent drawing
  • US11393516B2 patent drawing
  • US11393516B2 patent drawing

AI summary

An apparatus is provided that includes an array including m rows and n columns of nodes. Each column of nodes is coupled to one of n first conductive lines, and each row of nodes is coupled to one of m second conductive lines. Each node of the m rows and n columns of nodes includes a spin orbit torque-based spin torque oscillator circuit configured to oscillate at a corresponding intrinsic frequency. The spin orbit torque-based spin torque oscillator circuits are configured to generate m output signals at the m second conductive lines upon application of n input signals to corresponding n first conductive lines. The n input signals correspond to an n-element input vector, and each input signal includes a corresponding input signal frequency. Each of the m output signals include frequency domain components at the input signal frequencies. The magnitudes of the frequency domain components at the input signal frequencies depend on a degree of synchronization between the input signal frequencies and the intrinsic frequencies.