Developing Artificial Sensory Neurons for Large-Area Hybrid Electronics

Abstract

Artificial sensory neurons are biomimetic sensor hardware capable of transmitting and processing sensory information more efficiently. This is especially critical in large-area hybrid electronics where the complexity of signal collection and processing severely limits the scalability of the sensor performance. In this perspective, we propose how artificial sensory neurons with key functionalities such as integration, spike encoding and learning can be synergistic with the development of hybrid electronics. We also provide perspectives on the sensing, powering, application-specific and manufacturing aspects of developing artificial sensory neurons for hybrid electronics. Lastly, we also speculate critical development of mixed conductivity (ions, electronics, phonons) materials and the next enablers such as self-powered sensors and stimuli-responsive sensors for the continued progress in hybrid electronics.