Biskyrmion-based artificial neuron. Issue 1 (8th March 2023)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Ribeiro de Assis, Ismael; Mertig, Ingrid; Göbel, Börge
• Is Part Of: Neuromorphic computing and engineering. Volume 3:Issue 1(2023)
• Publication Date: 2023-03-08
• Subjects: skyrmion -- biskyrmion -- artificial neuron -- refractory period -- non-collinear spin textures -- spin-orbit torque -- spintronic device; Neural networks (Computer science) -- Periodicals; Neural computers -- Periodicals; Neuromorphics -- Periodicals; 006.3
• DOI: 10.1088/2634-4386/acb841
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 2634-4386

Abstract

Abstract: Magnetic skyrmions are nanoscale magnetic whirls that are highly stable and can be moved by currents. They have led to the prediction of a skyrmion-based artificial neuron device with leak-integrate-fire functionality. However, so far, these devices lack a refractory process, estimated to be crucial for neuronal dynamics. Here we demonstrate that a biskyrmion-based artificial neuron overcomes this insufficiency. When driven by spin-orbit torques, a single biskyrmion splits into two subskyrmions that move towards a designated location and can be detected electrically, ultimately resembling the excitation process of a neuron that fires. The attractive interaction of the two skyrmions leads to a unique trajectory: Once they reach the detector area, they automatically return to the center to reform the biskyrmion but on a different path. During this reset period, the neuron cannot fire again. Our suggested device resembles a biological neuron with the leak, integrate, fire and refractory characteristics increasing the bio-fidelity of current skyrmion-based devices.