Regular arrays of quantum-dot cellular automata “macrocells”

Abstract

Previous research has shown the viability of fundamental quantum-dot cellular automata (QCA) structures such as binary wires, coplanar wire crossings, inverters, and programmable AND/OR gates. Combining these and other logic devices, we have designed and simulated a regular array of QCA “macrocells,” with each macrocell housing an irregular array of strategically aligned, identical arrangements of individual QCA cells. In the functional arrays presented, the outputs of successive columns of macrocells converge to a one-dimensional centroid of the initial region of binary inputs. With this precursor to fully developed cellular automata using QCA architecture, potential applications are destined in computer vision, robotics, and pattern recognition. A 10×10 regular array of macrocells is ultimately simulated, displaying the desired “centroidal convergence” behavior.