Abstract:

Emerging edge AI systems call for device-level approaches that are inherently low-power, secure, and capable of managing uncertainty. In this talk, I will share our recent exploratory efforts toward realizing on-device intelligence using custom-designed semiconductor devices. I will introduce three emerging device platforms for on-device AI: (1) probabilistic Gaussian–Sigmoid transistors, (2) photo-spike photodetectors, and (3) intelligent risk detection sensors.

Gaussian–Sigmoid transistors support analog activation and probabilistic inference by leveraging intrinsic device variability, providing a potential pathway for implementing Bayesian operations directly in hardware. Photo-spike photodetectors convert light fluctuations into asynchronous spike trains, functioning as both neuromorphic input interfaces and entropy sources for secure applications such as physical random number generation. Intelligent risk detection sensors based on UVC sensing detect early-stage fire events and enable high-level inference of fire types and potential causes through sensing behavioral pattern analysis.

While still in early stages, the combination of these platforms suggests a promising direction for hardware-embedded probabilistic learning, real-time sensing, and secure edge intelligence. This work aims to show how tuning the physics of emerging devices may open new opportunities for resilient, intelligent systems at the edge.

Biography:

Hocheon Yoo is an Associate Professor of Electronic Engineering at Hanyang University, South Korea, where he leads the We Design Devices (WeDD) Lab. His research focuses on the development of novel semiconductor devices for neuromorphic computing, secure hardware, and sensor-integrated AI systems. He pursues a material-device–application co-design approach, exploring how emerging materials and structures can directly enable new forms of intelligent behavior. He is currently the Korean principal investigator of a Korea–US joint project on foundational semiconductor technologies (NRF–NSF, 2024–2027), and also leads a Korea–Canada academia–industry joint project with McGill University and 1-Material. His professional activities include:

- Vice Chair, Neuromorphic Device Standardization Roadmap, Korea Semiconductor Industry Association (2024–present)

- Co-Chair, MEMS & Sensor Systems Division, Korean Conference on Semiconductors

- Division Chair, Bio-Semiconductor Devices, Korean Society for Medical and Biological Engineering (2025–present)

- Secretary, Active-Matrix Devices Committee Korea Chapter, SID Korea (2024–present)

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