Superconducting FPGA Reconfiguration by Thermal State Switching
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Solution Overview
Problem
There is a need for more efficient and effective methods for implementing programmable operations in electronic devices, particularly at cryogenic temperatures and nanoscale sizes.
Innovation Solution
The use of superconducting wires in circuits, where each wire is thermally-coupled to a gate input, allows for different configurations that adjust capacitance, inductance, and resistance by transitioning between superconducting and non-superconducting states using heat sources or strain-inducing elements.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Volume of moving object
If conventional circuits are used to implement programmable operations, then the device can operate at room temperature with standard electronics, but the circuit size and operational latency are larger and slower respectively
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the operating temperature parameter from room temperature to cryogenic temperatures, enabling the use of superconducting materials that exhibit zero electrical resistance. This parameter change allows circuits to be scaled down to nanoscale dimensions while achieving faster operational speeds and lower latency, as superconducting circuits can operate at higher frequencies without the parasitic resistance limitations of conventional circuits
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes the phase transition of superconducting materials from normal conducting state to superconducting state by controlling temperature. This phase transition enables the circuit elements to switch between high-resistance and zero-resistance states, allowing for both size reduction and faster operation since superconducting states support higher current densities and faster switching speeds
2Speed
If superconducting circuits are used to reduce circuit size and latency, then the circuit operates faster and smaller, but the device requires cryogenic temperatures and specialized superconducting materials
Solution Approach 1:
The patent designs superconducting circuit elements that can dynamically reconfigure their functionality based on temperature and control signals. The same physical structure can operate as different logic gates or circuit elements by changing its superconducting state, reducing the need for separate dedicated components and simplifying the overall device architecture despite the cryogenic requirements
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements dynamically reconfigurable superconducting circuits where circuit elements can change their electrical properties and connectivity in real-time based on control signals. This dynamic capability allows the circuit to adapt its configuration for different computational tasks, improving operational speed by optimizing the circuit path and reducing unnecessary switching operations
3Length of moving object
If superconducting nanowires are used to implement circuit functions, then the circuit achieves nanoscale dimensions, but the control mechanisms for transitioning states become more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the control functionality directly into the nanowire structure by integrating control electrodes or gating mechanisms that are physically coupled to the superconducting nanowire. This integration allows for direct electrostatic or thermodynamic control of the superconducting state without requiring separate complex control systems, enabling state transitions through applied voltages or heat that modulate the nanowire's critical current or transition temperature
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 approach enables low-latency operations on a cryogenic chip, allowing for programmable circuits that can function as capacitors, inductors, or resistors, thereby enhancing the efficiency and effectiveness of electronic devices.
Implementation Method 1
Superconductors are materials capable of operating in a superconducting state with zero electrical resistance under particular conditions
Implementation Method 2
each nanowire is thermally-coupled to a gate input
Implementation Method 3
the gate inputs can include strain-inducing elements, such as piezoelectrics and the like, that are physically-coupled to the respective superconducting wires
Data Source
AI summary
The various embodiments described herein include methods, devices, and systems for operating superconducting circuitry. In one aspect, a programmable circuit includes a configurable superconducting component and control circuitry coupled to the configurable superconducting component. The superconducting component includes an input terminal, an output terminal, and a plurality of gate terminals. The control circuitry is coupled to the superconducting component via the plurality of gate terminals. The control circuitry is adapted to selectively transition portions of the superconducting component from a superconducting state to a non-superconducting state. The control circuitry is configured to operate the superconducting component in a first configuration in which the programmable circuit is configured to perform a first function. The control circuitry is further configured to operate the superconducting component in a second configuration in which the programmable circuit is configured to perform a second function, distinct from the first function.