Integrating magnetic skyrmion properties into neuromorphic computing promises
advancements in hardware efficiency and computational power. However, a
scalable implementation of the weighted sum of neuron signals, a core operation
in neural networks, has yet to be demonstrated. In this study, we exploit the
non-volatile and particle-like characteristics of magnetic skyrmions, akin to
synaptic vesicles and neurotransmitters, to perform this weighted sum operation
in a compact, biologically-inspired manner. To this aim, skyrmions are
electrically generated in numbers proportional to the input with an efficiency
given by a non-volatile weight. These chiral particles are then directed using
localized current injections to a location where their presence is quantified
through non-perturbative electrical measurements. Our experimental
demonstration, currently with two inputs, can be scaled to accommodate multiple
inputs and outputs using a crossbar array design, potentially nearing the
energy efficiency observed in biological systems.Comment: 12 pages, 5 figure