The world of computing just got a whole lot more flexible. Cambridge-based Pragmatic Semiconductor has unveiled the Flex-RV, a bendable non-silicon RISC-V processor that they claim is "the world's first 32-bit microprocessor in a flexible technology that is fully functional while flexed." This innovative processor, capable of machine learning, can be produced for less than a dollar, opening up exciting possibilities for a range of applications.
The Flex-RV's flexibility is not just a gimmick. Demonstrations show the processor being wrapped around a pencil, coiled tighter than a 5mm radius, and subjected to tensile, compressive, and flat bending without missing a beat. This resilience makes it ideal for use in applications where traditional rigid processors would be impractical, such as wearables, flexible displays, and even medical devices.
But the Flex-RV's appeal goes beyond its physical properties. Built on Pragmatic's previous work with flexible electronics, including FlexPCB and FlexIC, the processor is remarkably thin, measuring less than 80µm including the PCB, and consumes less than 6mW of power. These characteristics, combined with its low cost, make it an attractive option for developers looking to create low-power, cost-effective devices.
Under the hood, the Flex-RV boasts an open Servant RISC-V CPU accompanied by a programmable ML hardware accelerator. The system architecture also includes components such as a register file, debug switch, multiplexor switch, arbiter, RAM interface, on-chip RAM block, and a General-purpose Input/Output (GPIO) interface. Programs are loaded into the on-chip RAM through the debug switch and external memory access.
While the Flex-RV's performance specs might not set the world on fire, with test samples featuring 12,600 logic gates and clock speeds ranging from 52 kHz to 60 kHz, it represents a significant step forward in the field of flexible computing. Emre Ozer, Pragmatic's Senior Director of Processor Development and lead researcher, sees the Flex-RV as a game-changer, stating that the collaborative work with Qamcom and Harvard scientists "will democratize access to computing, unlocking emerging applications while opening the door to sub-dollar computing."
Pragmatic envisions the Flex-RV finding its place in a wide range of applications, from consumer goods and wearables to single-use healthcare equipment. Its combination of flexibility, low cost, and machine learning capabilities opens up a world of possibilities for developers seeking to create innovative and affordable solutions.
The Flex-RV builds upon previous work in the field of flexible computing, such as the PlasticArm, a collaboration between Pragmatic and Arm in 2021. While PlasticArm utilized Arm Cortex M0 cores, it lacked programmability, was limited to three hardwired programs in its read-only memory, and operated at a slower sub-30 kHz with significantly higher power consumption (21mW). The Flex-RV, in contrast, outperforms its predecessor in both physical flexibility and computational capabilities.
With its groundbreaking features and affordability, the Flex-RV has the potential to revolutionize how we approach computing. Its ability to bend, twist, and flex opens up a world of possibilities for creating innovative devices that are both functional and adaptable. As Pragmatic continues to refine the Flex-RV, we can expect to see this versatile processor powering a wide range of exciting new applications in the years to come.
Source: PragmaticSemi.com
0 comments:
Post a Comment