Morphic Architectures: Atomic-Level Limits
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Morphic Architectures: Atomic-Level Limits Ralph Cavin1, and Victor Zhirnov2 1 Research Operations, Semiconductor Research Corp., 1101 Slater Rd., Durham, NC, 27703 2 Semiconductor Research Corp., 1101 Slater Rd., Durham, NC, 27703 ABSTRACT In this paper, we consider a thought problem intended to force consideration of fundamental limits for energy sources, sensors, computing elements, and communication systems as fundamental system dimensions are reduced to the few micron regime. Design of integrated systems at this level are shown to literally require the allocation of atoms for the various functions. We argue that although there are no fabrication technologies for systems on this scale and the tradeoffs between system functions are extreme, systems on this scale might be feasible; given end-of ITRS technologies.
I. INTRODUCTION A trend, synergistic with scaling, is the use of semiconductor technologies for diverse integrated systems applications. This trend is called ‘Functional Diversification’ and is characterized by the integration of non-CMOS devices such as sensors and actuators with traditional CMOS and other novel information processing devices. Functional diversification is empowered by continued dimensional scaling for integrated circuit devices and is fundamentally a cross-disciplinary activity. A specific application will drive specific technology requirements in areas such as system architectures, energy sources, sensors, packaging, etc. We have imagined that it is desired to design a ‘nanomorphic cell’ whose function is, upon injection into the body, to interact with living cells, e.g. determine the state of the cell and to support certain “therapeutic” action. We stipulate that a microsystem should be on the order of the size of a living cell and have chosen a cube of ten microns on a side for the nanomorphic system. Our purpose is to examine the physical limits and trade-offs for each of the required system components, given severe volume limitations. In particular, the nanomorphic cell must have the capability to collect data on the living cell, it must analyze the data and make a decision on the type of cell; it must communicate with an external controlling agent; and possibly, take corrective action. Such a cell would need its own energy sources, sensors, computers, and communication devices, integrated into a complete system. In addition to the awesome challenges of designing and fabricating at the level of atoms, the nanomorphic cell need to be extremely energy efficient in its operations since only infinitesimal amounts of energy would be available to it. Fig. 1 below is a depiction of the nanomorphic cell.
~10 µm
Major functional blocks: Sensing Communication Control Energy
Communication
Energy
S
Control
S a
S S
10 µm b
Energy atoms Function atoms
Figure 1. A Nanomorphic Cell: Generic architecture, constraints and trade-offs. Very limited space needs to by divided between sensors, power supply and electronic components (a). At this scale, every atom must play a role
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