A Case for 3D Integrated System Design for Neuromorphic Computing and AI Applications

Abstract

Over the last decade, artificial intelligence (AI) has found many applications areas in the society. As AI solutions have become more sophistication and the use cases grew, they highlighted the need to address performance and energy efficiency challenges faced during the implementation process. To address these challenges, there has been growing interest in neuromorphic chips. Neuromorphic computing relies on non von Neumann architectures as well as novel devices, circuits and manufacturing technologies to mimic the human brain. Among such technologies, three-dimensional (3D) integration is an important enabler for AI hardware and the continuation of the scaling laws. In this paper, we overview the unique opportunities 3D integration provides in neuromorphic chip design, discuss the emerging opportunities in next generation neuromorphic architectures and review the obstacles. Neuromorphic architectures, which relied on the brain for inspiration and emulation purposes, face grand challenges due to the limited understanding of the functionality and the architecture of the human brain. Yet, high-levels of investments are dedicated to develop neuromorphic chips. We argue that 3D integration not only provides strategic advantages to the cost-effective and flexible design of neuromorphic chips, it may provide design flexibility in incorporating advanced capabilities to further benefit the designs in the future.