BEIJING: Pakistani scientist Dr. Ali Imran and Prof. Xu Mingsheng, in collaboration with international scientists from the State University of New York, the National Institute for Materials Science in Japan, and Sejong University in South Korea, have recently achieved a significant breakthrough at Zhejiang University, China. Their groundbreaking invention is a Neuromorphic Vision sensor that revolutionizes artificial vision technology.
The Neuromorphic Vision sensor developed by Dr. Ali Imran and his team enables neuromorphic functions such as sensing, learning, memorizing, and decision-making at the single-sensor level. Unlike conventional systems that require separate sensors, computers, and hard disks for sensing, processing, and data storage, their device integrates these functions within a single device.
This innovative sensor boasts simplicity, intelligence, high performance, energy efficiency, and easy scalability for industrial fabrication. The researchers have devised a straightforward method to fabricate the HfAlO interfacial layer, which exhibits ferroelectric properties. Utilizing atomic layer deposition, they integrated this interfacial layer with monolayer Graphene to create a ferroelectric field effect transistor.
The device operates by absorbing light in Silicon, converting optical energy into photovoltage to polarize the ferroelectric HfAlO layer. The smart Graphene channel detects these changes and transmits the signal to the output. Continuously weak light signals can then form image patterns, enabling identification of objects, digits, images, or human faces.
With proper operation, the device demonstrates reliable performance over extended periods without degradation. The global market for Neuromorphic Computing is projected to reach USD 8,275.9 million by 2030, with a remarkable Compound Annual Growth Rate of 85.73% from 2021 to 2030.
The surge in demand for artificial intelligence technologies, including chatterbots, computer vision, image processing, and language processing, is driving this substantial growth. Moreover, the application of neuromorphic computing for security purposes and the ongoing research and development of neuromorphic chips for brain-inspired robotics and intelligent systems offer promising opportunities for market participants.
In an interview with APP, Dr. Ali emphasized his commitment to strengthening China-Pakistan friendship through advancements in advanced technology. He expressed his desire for increased collaboration between Chinese and Pakistani universities, believing that a shift in Pakistani universities’ research focus towards addressing industry challenges could help alleviate economic issues. Dr. Ali also encouraged young Pakistani researchers to pursue opportunities in China to engage in cutting-edge research.
