NEUROPULS: NEUROmorphic energy-efficient secure accelerators based on Phase change materials aUgmented siLicon photonicS

TL;DR

The NEUROPULS project develops secure, energy-efficient neuromorphic accelerators using augmented silicon photonics, targeting edge computing applications like autonomous driving and satellite anti-jamming.

Contribution

Introduction of a novel augmented silicon photonics platform integrated with RISC-V for secure neuromorphic acceleration in edge computing.

Findings

Demonstrated energy efficiency improvements in neuromorphic accelerators

Addressed security and reliability challenges in silicon photonics-based systems

Validated use cases in satellite anti-jamming and autonomous driving

Abstract

This special session paper introduces the Horizon Europe NEUROPULS project, which targets the development of secure and energy-efficient RISC-V interfaced neuromorphic accelerators using augmented silicon photonics technology. Our approach aims to develop an augmented silicon photonics platform, an FPGA-powered RISC-V-connected computing platform, and a complete simulation platform to demonstrate the neuromorphic accelerator capabilities. In particular, their main advantages and limitations will be addressed concerning the underpinning technology for each platform. Then, we will discuss three targeted use cases for edge-computing applications: Global National Satellite System (GNSS) anti-jamming, autonomous driving, and anomaly detection in edge devices. Finally, we will address the reliability and security aspects of the stand-alone accelerator implementation and the project use cases.