WO2008024368A2

WO2008024368A2 - Article having multi-functional elements

Info

Publication number: WO2008024368A2
Application number: PCT/US2007/018516
Authority: WO
Inventors: Pamela A. Menges
Original assignee: Menges Pamela A
Priority date: 2006-08-22
Filing date: 2007-08-22
Publication date: 2008-02-28
Also published as: GB2454617B; GB2454617A; GB0903036D0; WO2008024368A3

Abstract

The present invention is an article having functional elements that provide information processing and operate as mechanical, electronic or optical devices or structures for a variety of mathematical, artificial intelligence and neural technologies to control and support operations and functions of the article. The functional element creates a fault tolerant environment that provides structural robustness, distributed and redundant information processing, and delay tolerant networks (DTN) both locally on an ANM as well as communications between ANM structures and between other devices and systems.

Description

Description ARTICLE HAVING MULTI-FUNCTIONAL ELEMENTS

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to an article having functional elements that provide functional or multifunctional processing and mechanical systems for a variety of mathematical, artificial intelligence and neural technologies for controlling and supporting operations and functions of the article. Background

[0002] Autonomous intelligent systems (AIS) are a broad array of resident logic controlled devices and systems that may learn and adapt to its environment. The efficiency and functionality of AIS in the design of new generation of structures and devices is almost acknowledged universally. AIS technologies are ideally used to increase the safety and reliability of complex vehicles and machinery, but offer advantages in the development of highly specialized structures and devices. Artificial neural membrane (ANM) structures are a new class of functional structure that provides an open- architecture environment for the integration and implementation of nanoscale and microscale devices, molecular devices and programmable or implemental neural technologies such as neural networks, artificial neurons, computational biomimetic or neurocognitive processes. AMN structures and devices are highly integrated systems that are interdependent and fault tolerant allowing for multifunctional architectures supporting diverse technologies. [0003] Over the past two decades, artificial neural networks (ANN) have evolved from a simple computer simulation to performance adaptive systems based on computational models derived from study of the actual ordering of vertebrate neurons and signal analysis of neuronal operation. From these studies, artificial neurons or A-neurons have been modeled and fabricated as functioning electronic, electrooptic and optical devices.

[0004] Since neural networks are perceived as simply an interconnected graph of nodes whose function is based upon the nerve cells of a living organism our concept of an ANM must be defined with somewhat new parameters for an artificial neural network. In more advanced ANN the nodes are processing elements that possess learning rules supporting a self- organizing or performance adaptive systems. The new artificial neural networks as used herein function to acquire and control multiple micro and nano devices integrated on thin film layers or other substrates that comprise the ANM of the subject invention.

[0005] Advances in materials and nanotechnology, especially thin films, has provided a new environment for the development of artificial neurons as device resident controllers for structures, devices, systems and vehicles. However, integration and implementation of artificial neurons and neural networks are often difficult and their application to control systems has required sophisticated conventional computers to operate.

[0006] Accordingly, a need exists for an article having functional elements that provide multifunctional processing and mechanical systems for a variety of mathematical, artificial intelligence and neural technologies to control and support operations and functions of the article. Summary of the Invention

[0007] The present invention is an article having functional elements that provide information processing and operate as mechanical, electronic or optical devices or structures for a variety of mathematical, artificial intelligence and neural technologies to control and support operations and functions of the article. The functional element creates a fault tolerant environment that provides structural robustness, distributed and redundant information processing, and delay tolerant networks (DTN) both locally on an ANM as well as communications between ANM structures and between other devices and systems.

[0008] The functional elements are based upon materials such as carbon nanotubules or shaped memory alloys (SMA), silicone or gallium arsenide material. Such materials have properties that allow for the direct support of information processing on and/or within their structures as well as providing mechanical functions. In a preferred embodiment, the article includes functional elements which support synthetic responses to environmental factors within the ANM and further respond and support sensors, actuators, molecular devices including molecular rotors, and the functional elements themselves comprising a feedback-control system. [0009] The ANM comprising the article does not require a predetermined neural model, artificial neuron or neural network, but is an open architecture system for implementing neural technology, quantum neural networks, artificial intelligence or mathematical systems.

[0010] The computational aspects of the neural technology comprises neural networks, algorithms or other numerical or computational structures or methods supporting biomimetic processes, neural processes, decision making, adaptive control, learning, self-organizing control and/or natural or artificial neurocognitive processes.

[0011] In a preferred embodiment of the invention the article comprises one or more functional elements that control the geometry of structures and/or operation of mechanical systems and functions to support information processing within an artificial neural membrane (ANM).

[0012] In another preferred embodiment of the invention the ANM is a substrate or a structural surface.

[0013] In another preferred embodiment of the invention the functional element is formed from shaped memory alloy.

[0014] In another preferred embodiment of the invention the shaped memory alloy comprises of nickel and titanium.

[0015] In another preferred embodiment of the invention the functional element is formed from carbon nanotubules.

[0016] In another preferred embodiment of the invention the functional element is formed from carbon-60.

[0017] In another preferred embodiment of the invention one or more of the functional elements are electrically coupled together through one or more nodes.

[0018] In another preferred embodiment of the invention the nodes include one or more logic elements which operate to control the operation of each functional element.

[0019] In another preferred embodiment of the invention the article further comprises a power source electrically coupled to the functional elements.

[0020] In another preferred embodiment of the invention the power source is an external power source. [0021] In another preferred embodiment of the invention the power source is formed by the ANM and comprises a photovoltaic film.

[0022] In another preferred embodiment of the invention the power source is formed by a chemical reaction on or within the ANM.

[0023] In another preferred embodiment of the invention each functional element operates to generate a specific mechanical response based on a specific input.

[0024] In another preferred embodiment of the invention the functional element is an engineered structure.

[0025] In another preferred embodiment of the invention the ANM comprises two or more layers wherein one or more of the layers have one or more functional elements.

[0026 In another preferred embodiment of the invention a functional element comprises an engineered structure formed from a SMA having alternating deposition layers and geometries, and current isolating materials.

[0027] Other aspects, advantages, and embodiments of the invention will be apparent from the following description, the accompanying drawings and the appended claims.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0028] Features, aspects, advantages, and embodiments of the present invention will become better understood with regard to the following description, appended claims, and accompanying drawings where:

[0029] FIG. 1 is a schematic illustration of the article of the subject invention having an artificial neural membrane (ANM) and one or more functional elements;

[0030] FIG. 2 is a schematic exploded illustration of an ANM that operates as a substrate and comprises one or more layers each of which may support one or more functional elements thereon;

[0031] FIG. 3 is a schematic illustration of the AIM of FIG. 2 showing a functional unit having an electric current supplied by a power source for causing t he functional element to respond mechanically;

[0032] FIG. 4 is a schematic illustration of an article comprising a functional element having a SMA shown in the form of a ribbon where engineered layers function in response to various levels of heating; [0033] FIG. 5 is a schematic illustration of an article comprising an elongated oval shaped ANM having a plurality of functional elements attached or imbedded within the ANM which are coupled together by nodes; [0034] FIG. 6 is a schematic illustration of a functional element comprising an engineered structure formed from a SMA with alternating deposition layers;

[0035] FIG. 7 is a schematic illustration of a functional element graphene sheets rolled together and cut to form an outer roll having equal rings; [0036] FIG. 8 is a schematic illustration of an article comprising a functional element supported by or in an ANM and operating as an actuator; [0037] FIG. 9 is a schematic illustration of a matrix forming a layer on the

ANM formed from carbon fibers which cause motion through excitation of the matrix;

[0038] FIG. 10 is a schematic illustration of a functional element comprising a chiral nanotubule and an electrode;

[0039] FIG. 11 is a schematic illustration showing sensors deposited on or within various layers comprising the ANM;

[0040] FIG. 12 is a schematic illustration of an article comprising functional elements, an ANM, and logic circuits augmenting the nodes; [0041] FIG. 13 is a schematic illustration showing a smooth node configuration and a more complex multifunctional node;

[0042] FIG. 14 is a schematic illustration of a ANM having layers of nanoelectromechanical (NEMS) devices;

[0043] FIG. 15 is a schematic illustration of a darkening channel device having a functional gradient for detecting and quantifying radiation exposure; [0044] FIG. 16 is a schematic illustration of a functional element effective for measuring small displacements and forces at a molecule scale; and [0045] FIG. 17 is a schematic illustration of a functional element comprising two components that create an electromechanical system. Best Mode for Carrying Out the Invention

[0046] The article of the subject invention comprises functional elements supported on or within a membrane (ANM) that provide functional and/or multifunctional processing, information processing, and mechanical structures for a variety of mathematical, artificial intelligence, and neural technologies to control and support operations and functions of the article. The specific structure and organization of the article is based on its intended use or function. As a functional structure the article is constructed around an ANM which operates as a substrate, substrates, or supporting material for various functional elements. The material forming the ANM may include, but is not limited to, polymers, polyamides, metallic-polymers, metallic membranes or other suitable materials or structures that support membrane construction or layers providing different levels of function. More than one type of functional element may be embedded or deposited within the ANM structure. Power, thermal management, navigation, communications and sensor systems could reside in the ANM. Preferably, the primary components of the ANM include functional elements that operate together to form a neural network or neural networks and functional components including but not limited to, materials, devices, thin films, thick films, quantum dot devices and materials, molecules and molecular devices including chiral and molecular switches, biochemical, biological, organometallic and inorganic atoms and molecules, nanoelectromechanical systems (NEMS) and microelectromechanical systems (MENS) and other suitable nanoscale and microscale materials, structures and/or components. The ANM, based on the material used, may also function as an open architecture or adaptive architecture substrate for nanoscale and microscale devices. Functional elements of the ANM may be created by epitaxy, deposited, coated, lithographed, etched, placed on the substrate or other ANM structure or created through atomic or molecular manipulation or transference by, but not limited to, atomic force microscopy, laser or photonic systems, atomic or particle accelerators, nano particle deposition or plasma scattering, plasma based deposition systems, condensed mattered systems, and ionizing and non-ionizing radiation processes. The ANM material may also be manipulated to form functional elements utilizing chemical or physical methods including quantum size effects (QSE) to implement new functional or operational processes within the ANM.

[0047] In a preferred embodiment of the invention, as shown in FIG. 1, the article 100 of the subject invention comprises a ANM 102 having one or more functional elements 104. Preferably, as shown in FIG. 2, the ANM 102 operates as a substrate comprising one or more layers 106 each of which may support one or more functional elements 104 thereon.

[0048] In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the functional element

104 comprises a thin film shaped memory alloy (SMA). One such SMA found to be suitable for use is Nitinol (NiTi). The composition of NiTi alloys are nearly equivalent amounts of nickel and titanium. However the slightest change in the alloy ratios creates significant differences in the transition temperature of the alloy. Since NiTi contracts or expands by temperature it is easily controlled through resistance circuits.

[0049] In a preferred embodiment, the functional elements 104 are supported by or within the ANM 102 and operate as actuators having low power requirements (about 8 to about 20 V for NiTi) thereby supporting a variety of options in their application and configuration. Since the mechanical response produced by SMA alloys, such as a NiTi alloy, is dependent on ohmic heating, the actuator force of the functional elements 104 exerted on the ANM 102 depends on the counterforce provided by the ANM 102. It has been found that specific mechanical movement of the ANM 102 may be controlled by layering the ANM 102 (as shown in FIG. 2) to isolate various functional elements 104. In a preferred embodiment, as shown in FIG. 1, one or more of the functional elements 104 are electrically coupled together through one or more nodes 108 forming a network 110. Such nodes 108 preferably comprise one or more logic elements 112, such as microprocessors, quantum computer elements such as quantum dots, and other like means which operate to control the operation of each function element 104. In a preferred embodiment, the nodes 108 operate to receive and control power outputs from a power source 114 to the various functional elements 104. It should be understood that the power source 114 may be an external power source, may be an attached or incorporated source, such as solid-state batteries, carbon matrix batteries, on or in the ANM, or may be part of the ANM such as by application of thin film and amorphous photovoltaic materials including ultraviolet (UV) and infrared (IR) photovoltaic materials. Other power sources may be comprised of piezoelectric materials or devices or materials that produce power through the motion of the membrane or dynamics of the functional structure, photovoltaic film or by creating a chemical reaction on or within the ANM. Secondary power and thermal management could also be provided such as by utilizing an organometallic enzyme gel surrounded by a permeable polymer membrane that operate to produce an electric current through the motion of the ANM. As shown in FIGS. 3, electric current is supplied by the power source 114 to one or more of the nodes 108 which distributes the power to the functional elements 104 causing the functional element to respond mechanically. The nodes 108 may also distribute power to the ANM and other resident devices. [005O] In another preferred embodiment of the invention, the functional elements 104 operate to generate a specific mechanical response based on a specific input. Preferably, the functional element 104 is an engineered structure formed from various methods such as thin-film nano particle deposition, thin-film particle deposition, as well as by changes in the physical dimensions and geometry of the SMA. For an examplanary illustration, as shown in FIG. 4, an article 100 comprising a functional element 104 having a SMA 116 is shown in the form of a ribbon where the various layers 106 of the functional element 104 function in response to levels of current, ohmic heating, as current increases mechanical responses vary geometrically including varying degrees of bending and/or twisting.

[0051] For another examplanary illustration, as shown in FIG. 5, the article 100 comprises an elongated oval shaped ANM 102 having a plurality of functional elements 104 attached or imbedded within the ANM 102 and are coupled together by nodes 108 that relay energy and information. In a preferred embodiment, as shown in FIG. 6, each functional element 104 comprises an engineered structure formed from a SMA with alternating deposition layers 118 having specific engineered geometries, and ceramic, or other suitable current isolating materials 120. In operation, the functional elements 104 receive energy from a power source 114 (FIG. 3), as described above, distributed by one or more nodes 108 causing the functional elements 104 to mechanically respond to current levels according to their material and physical geometry.

[0052] . In another preferred embodiment of the invention the functional elements 104 comprise carbon nanotubules. Most carbon nanotubules are produced by a catalytic process over a gaseous species formed through the thermal decomposition of hydrocarbons. Contemporary materials science has provided many more tools for both studying and producing carbon nanotubules. The single walled nanotubule (SWNT) is nearly a perfect dimensionless structure. In recent years the use of SWNTs in developing nanoscale studies in electromagnetic systems has created an entirely new area nanoelectromechanical systems or NEMS. NEMS offer a variety of geometries and capabilities. In a preferred embodiment of the invention, one or more of the functional elements is a NEMS or MEMS logic circuit that operates to support information processing. Functional elements formed from carbon nanotubules offer mechanical movement through electrical excitation and offer several geometries for_, various functions. By structuring a coaxial or layered carbon lattice the carbon nanotubules offers a structural-control system as well as a multifunctional environment for both processing and power. Carbon matrix batteries are currently available as are methods for doping carbon materials that allows information processing resident on the carbon structure whether a carbon nanotubule or Carbon-60 material.

[0053] Computationally it has been shown that flattening the SWNT into a ribbon is energetically more robust than the tubule structure for any size greater than about 2.5 nm. However, nanotubules have been created with diameters of about 0.4 nm with the more reasonable energetic diameter of about 1.4 nm. Nanotubules can be synthesized at any length including micrometer and millimeter scales. This characteristic provides single molecule structures with very large aspect ratios and potentially a dimensionally perfect structure for a variety of applications.

[0054] Another method for producing SWNTs is by rolling a sheet of graphene. This allows for a number of possible geometries based on the tube formation; straight, zigzag and helical or chiral. The helical or chiral nanotubule offers a great potential for use as a NEMS components or as an ANM actuator. The effective diameter for structural purposes in less than about 2nm but bundling SWNT operates to increase their strength as well as maintain structural effectiveness.

[0055] As shown in FIG. 7, a functional element 104 is shown comprising a graphene sheets 122 rolled together and cut using a laser to form an outer roll in equal rings 124 from the inner section. As shown the functional element operates by expanding and contracting producing a structure reminiscent of a bellows. In a preferred embodiment of the invention the functional element 104 comprises a nanotubule device formed from a sheet of graphene which operates as a dimensionally controllable actuator. It has been found that such a functional element provides improved responses for inducing displacements over longer distances than a chiral or helical nanotubule structure would provide.

[0056] Another method for producing SWNTs is by rolling a sheet of graphene. This allows for a number of possible geometries based on the tube formation; straight, zigzag and helical or chiral. The helical or chiral nanotubule possibly offers the greatest potential for use as NEMS components or as ANM actuators. The mathematical model derived for fabrication of nanotubules from graphene sheets is defined by the vector of helicity C_h and the angle of helicity θ, n and m are integers of the vector OA and ai and a₂ are the unit vectors. So that

OA = Ch = nal + ma2 with a, = (a(3)-²/2)x + (a/2)y, a₂ = (a(3)^"2/2)x - (a/2)y where a= 2.46 A, cos θ = (2n + m)/2(n² + m² + nm)^"2

[0057J The vector helicity Q₁ = OA is perpendicular to the tube axis, while the angle of helicity θ is taken with respect to the zig-zag axis so it is the helicity vector that creates the "zigzag" of the tube. Finding the diameter of the nanotubule is simplified by

D = \C_h |/π = [ace (2(n² + m² 4- ran))^"2]/ π where 1.41 A^φ^ < ac=c < 1.44 A_C60,

Buckyballs

[0058] The effective diameter for structural purposes in less than about

2nm but bundling SWNT operates to increase their strength as well as maintain structural effectiveness.

[0059] For an examplanary illustration, as shown in FIG. 8, the article

100 comprises a function element 104 supported by or within the ANM 102 and operates as actuators having low power requirements with about 8 to about 20 V thereby supporting a variety of options in their application and configuration. The functional element 104 is formed from carbon-60 attached to graphene wall of a SWNT 124 to provide a switch and when in multiples of two or more, as shown, forms a logic unit 126 for information processing on or in the functional unit 104.

[0060] The actual control of the motion of the ANM caused by the operation of the various functional elements will be determined in several ways. The functional element inputs will be from one or more sources depending on the complexity of integration. In a preferred embodiment, as shown in FIG. 9, a matrix 128 forming a layer on the ANM 102 is formed from carbon fibers which operate as artificial muscle to cause motion through excitation of the matrix 128. As an example, shown in FIG. 10, a functional element 104 comprises a chiral nanotubule 130 and an electrode 132. Upon excitation the chiral nanotubule rotates. The electrode 132 in the same location of the chiral nanotubule 130 operates as a sensor and detects an electric field produced by the rotation of the chiral nanotubule 130 this in turn provides sensory input from the mechanical response providing a feedback control system. The relative nature of possible inputs is then determined. These would include primary feedback from the functional elements controlling the motion and signals produced from any sensors or detectors. The inputs singularly or in clusters would then be managed through threshold level as well as preprogrammed signal detection in the ANM circuitry.

[0061] In another preferred embodiment, as shown in FIG. 11 , sensors

134 may be deposited on or within the various layers 106 comprising the ANM 102 through thin film deposition and provide detection of laser interrogation through the production of a current. For example the deposition of a nickal alloy produces current when struck by a Yag laser. Electrodes in the same location of a functional element detect the electric field produced by the rotation of the functional element.

[0062] In another preferred embodiment of the invention, the layers forming the ANM are provided with specific thicknesses effective for providing its operation and function thereby directly providing unique membrane, component or element functions such as information processing, power generation, sensory materials, chemical processing elements, and mechanical components and systems such as microscale and nanoscale actuators, switches, bellows, rotors, impellors, and linear potentiometers. [0063] As in the art of solid state physics, Quantum Size Effects (QSE) generally assumes that crystals are large enough that the influence of finite dimensions on their electronic structure is inconsequential to the effects of the lattice structure or the periodic potential arrangement of the ion cores. In a metal the energetics of the valence-band electron may be simply described as its dependence on the wave vector k = (2π/λ)e, where e is a unit vector in the direction of the electron and λ is its wavelength.

[0064] As the crystal dimensions approach interatomic distances or the wavelength λ, the electron is affected by the crystal boundaries as well as the periodic potential. The potential outside the lattice or solid is significantly different from that inside. The boundaries influence the energetics and position of the positive ion cores. Inside the lattice the electron energy E(k) demonstrates a simple parabolic form. The boundaries substantially restrict the wave vectors quantity and energetics affecting the electron behavior inside. [0065] Ultra-thin films, two-dimensional islands, one-dimensional wires and coatings can be prepared using epitaxial methods or processes and can produce quantum size effects (QSE) that are produced through the confinement of electrons. Due to the fact the electron is reflected or contained by the boundaries, the total phase difference is a multiple of 2π hence the demonstrated wave vector is normal or perpendicular to the surface. Since in the Sommerfeld-Bohr quantization rule [2k_zd + Φi + Φ2 = 2πn] that gives us the 2π multiple quantifier where the k₂ is the vector component normal to the surface, n is an integer value, d is the crystal thickness, and Φ₁ and Φ₂ are phase components responsible for waveform leakage beyond the potential steps at the film boundaries.

[0066] It has been demonstrated in the art that varying the thickness of a metal film alters its electronic structure. QSE's appear as significant oscillations in properties as varied as conductivity, surface energy, physical and chemical permeability, Hall Effect, and chemical reactivity. Also demonstrated in the art is the ability to vary the energy levels in films controlling the size and geometry of the surface structures including control of function and size and quantity of growth during fabrication or operation. Hence the control of QSE's directly affects the control of naπostructures including their production or growth on or within a surface or membrane. It has been found that by engineering the ANM structure of the subject invention with specific thickness of layers of the metallic ANM, the component properties including their operation and function can be directly controlled providing unique membrane, component or element functions such as information processing, power generation, sensory materials, chemical processing elements, and mechanical components and systems such as microscale and nanoscale actuators, switches, bellows, rotors, impellors, and linear potentiometers.

[0067] It should therefore now be understood that the structure of the

ANM of the subject invention allows for the application of quantum size effects (QSE) to be utilized for the integration, control and operation of processes on and within the structure of the ANM. These include on-board fuel and/or power generation, sensor configuration, device configuration or reconfiguration, as well as a number of catalytic processes that may power, support or fabricate new articles having various devices or components on or within the structure of the ANM.

[0068] Since it has been observed that QSE's are not just oscillations of quantities such as surface energetics, Fermi level densities of state or reaction rates, but also quantitatively produced by material and surface kinetics, diffusion coefficients and step-edge barriers. Further, the oscillations are directly associated with film thickness so oscillations may be controlled between the layers forming the ANM. This isolates the energetics of components within the layers to improve device performance. This also controls energetics, reaction rates of devices and components and may be used to isolate quantum information processing increasing the fidelity and accuracy of quantum computing. Controlling the kinetic effects through QSE sizing is comprised by the appropriate material or materials or a catalytic system to control reaction rate and yield. By manipulating the surface geometry utilizing NiTi components, carbon nanotubules, atomic and molecular size elements, the surface geometry may be programmed to support a variety of structures, operations, processes and functions without entangling other functions or operations. [0069] Even though the ANM may be a component of a large solid article it provides a substantial advantage in the design, operation and deployment of membrane structures and vehicles. Distinct limitations have been traditionally placed on membrane vehicles and structures. Innate instabilities and lack of sufficient control made them impractical. The ability of the ANM to control stiffness and twist in such a design offers a article having unique capability not seen in the art to control even lightweight membrane vehicles, provide variable geometry structures, morphing structures, and increased dynamic stability for both flight and other precision operations and functions.

[0070] As shown in FIG. 12, an article 100 is shown comprising functional elements 104 and an ANM 102 may also comprise logic circuits 138 augmenting the nodes 108 (FIG. 1). These logic circuits 138 may piggyback the functional elements 104 supporting mechanical operations. These logic circuits 138 may be deposited as quantum dots. This would support resident processing on the functional element operating as an actuator. These devices may also operate on the ANM network nodes creating dual logic processing functions.

[0071] A method for entering binary code into a quantum computer is known. This coupled with understanding the energetics of the molecular circuit based on Lippmann-Schwinger equation one can derive the potential for defining eigenstates within a quantum dot matrix that would support a larger variety of signal transmissions within in the subject ANM. [0072] The quantum algorithm supports encoding vary large numbers of classical data bits by transforming data to smaller number quantum bits or qubits through different energy levels. A log₂Λ/-qubit state quantum data processing quantum dot matrix could quickly process large amount of structural and environmental data relayed from functional elements through control nodes. The qubit processing nodes could in tern re-program the primary control functional elements through learning sub-routines. This would be useful when first encountering environmental changes.

[0073] The algorithm uses a set of simply implemented steps taking a binary number or for example a four (4) bit binary string and convert it to four corresponding 2-bit eigenstates. So for the four bit string 0111 the corresponding eigenstates could be |00>, |01>, |10>, (11>. The algorithm then constructs a superposition |ψ> of equal quantum states that peaked at only the eigenstates that correspond to 1's in the binary bit string. So that the 2-qubit state would is:

|ψ> = 3-^I/2 (|01>+|10)+|l l» thus creating an entangled state of n-qubits that encode a sequence of binary bits.

[0074] The next step computes the unitary transformation required to obtain the superposition where the unitary maps the chosen state into |ψ).

According to algorithm the binary bit string 0111 would map as the unitary matrix as follows:

0 -1/(3)- -1/(3)- -1/(3)^" Creating the matrix first compute |ψ> <ψ| for column 1 and then generate orthonormal l/(3)-² 2/3 -1/3 -1/3 vectors for the remaining columns. Then l/(3)-² -1/3 2/3 -1/3 compute the most likely quantum circuit l/(3)-² -1/3 -1/3 2/3 equivalent

Where trends in functional quantum dot matrices continue to increase in competencies, the reasonable potential for integrating quantum circuits in the substrate structure of the ANM presupposes the ability to differentiate between different energetic systems and assume no quantum tunneling or commingling because of the ability to vary the thickness of the metal films applying quantum size effects (QSE"s). Isolating quantum circuitry is a primary challenge for atomic and nanoscale systems. The ANM constructed of thin film metal layers comprises a unique environment for quantum computing creating an isolated quantum system without the necessity of other methods including but not limited to condensed matter systems.

[0075] The Operating System (OS), is a software program that enables the computer hardware or nodes to communicate, such as by hardwire or wireless systems, and operate with the computer software resident in the nodes and other devices on or within the ANM. The OS utilized by the ANM will implement multiprocessing operations capable of utilizing more than one computer processor or more than one node as well as multitasking allowing multiple software processes to run at the same time. [0076] Preferably, the OS is a UNIX, LINUX, or a variant thereof.

However other operating systems such as the WINDOWS™ operating system developed by Microsoft Corporation or the Macintosh™ operating system developed by Apple Computer Corporation may be utilized. Preferably, the OS of the ANM allows for cloning or copying existing processes resident in ANM devices supporting memory and logic devices. This OS requires less resident memory and is more efficient in implementing learning routines from data obtained through other resident devices or computational processes including neural algorithms implemented by particular nodes.

[0077] It should now be understood by those skilled in the art that the operating system of the ANM is unique and is not only a machine language but provides a computational environment for operation of the functional elements or devices resident on the ANM. The ANM is comprised to what amounts to be a material matrix for processing information and controlling its structure. The matrix may be defined computationally as a superlattice or a topological structure that is embedded by other topologies. These resident topologies will comprise the components of the neural networks and/or mathematical models as well as the functional elements. Assuming full scalability the embedded structures may include a number of variations not limited to single neurons, cluster neurons, cortical and advanced computational structures. [0078] Information processing and integration of mathematical models or computational processes including neural networks may be implemented through the use of algebraic mapping and boundary sets as discrete analogs for describing formulations to satisfy the simulation on one or more networks by another network and network resident data driven computing. [0079] The ANM is a functional network due to its operation as an active network driving complex computational functions. These complex computational functions can be further reduced as individual neural nets or mathematical models with computational nodes. However, they may also complete computational operations on the connecting components of the network of functional elements. The nodes may be traditional input-output devices, digital gate arrays or optical arrays. [0080] The ANM requires mapping and mapping is a function of projective geometry. Definition of network data exchange through simulation is supported by projective geometry. By reducing the requirements of distributed embedded networks to geometry we can visualize the concepts in order to extrapolate the functions to higher topological dimensions. The ANM is a highly structured, multi surfaced manifold. Due to the finite structure of the manifold the ANM is defined as a minimal surface or set of minimal surfaces with boundaries that are not necessarily equivalent.

[0081] Mathematically, a manifold is a complex topological structure that is defined by its surface(s). An analytic manifold can be defined by the following:

M is a topological space and a local chart on M is the pair (U, φ) where U is an open set in M and φ is a homeomorphism of U onto an open set φ(\J) in R" for some n. (U, φ) is a local chart that may be defined as a system of local coordinates on M defined by the open set U. If we assume M is a smooth manifold, then M is a topological space together with a collection of local charts called an atlas. And simply an analytic manifold is a smooth manifold for which the mapping is analytic.

[0082] The concept of data processing networks folding into or onto other data processing networks is known, however until now no system demonstrating the dual character of the ANM as an information processing network and mechanical systems network have been developed. [0083] A method of evaluating network geometries and function may be seen in a basic exchange of data through simulation of two bounded networks. However, for our purposes of considering the structure of the "multifunctional" networks on the subject ANM structure it is necessary to consider node function and evaluate data simulation, symmetry and correlative structures. So for application to ANM the nodes for both networks are depicted as two types (FIG. 13), the smooth or standard node by a black dot and the complex or multifunctional node by a spiky dot depicting multiple operations. In reality such a multifunctional node would exist in multiple data and set dimensions. Rendering such a complex node requires multiple sets. Such an array is possible through advanced differential methods and to a limited basis through assignment of topological vector spaces associated with neural and/or data topologies. This demonstrates equivalent functions by two dissimilar networks. [0084] The Cube-Connected Cycles (CCC) network though seemingly dissimilar from the Shuffle-Exchange network, geometric corollaries are created by the mapped triangles which directly simulate the data from one to the other. It should be understood that the neural or computational networks themselves are simulated. Thus computationally embedding a simulated network on a physical or mechanical network is possible and supports the operation of embedded or multifunctional processing in ANM network components. [0085] The distributed network of functional elements may sustain complex computational processes across a dynamic structure. This is accomplished through computational methods including but not limited to the simulation of a network on a network or networks, implementation of shuffle algorithms to handle data morphing, or the use of multiple layers of a substrate to isolate information or data processing from mechanical operation of the ANM layers.

[0086] In another preferred embodiment, as shown in FIGS. 2 and 14, the ANM 102 is a layered or laminated structure having layers 106 of nanoelectromechanical (NEMS) devices 140. One such NEMS device 140 is based on a molecular rotor where metal doped polymer molecules create a rotary motion through molecular polarization. Such a NEMS device 140 would provide power to propulsion systems as well as move fluids through nanotubules or other devices (not shown) to create pressure gradients, exchange heat and pump gases or fluids.

[0087] The functional structure of the ANM is implemented by a mechanical-data network, a network that is both functionally an actuator or machine system and a network or networks supporting information processing. A network of functional elements may be implemented through the use of shaped memory alloy (SMA), carbon nanotubules (CNT), quantum dots and other material based devices capable of information processing and mechanical behavior as described hereinabove.

[0088] The integration of nanoscale or microscale devices operates to create an intelligent structure that may be operated to provide remote sensing, environmental and structural health monitoring, dynamic and navigation controls through a variety of devices including nanoscale and microscale gyros, piezo electric devices, fluxgate devices, quantum dot and thin film detectors, Nitinol based materials, Sapphire based devices, Gallium Arsenide devices, artificial gradients, darkening channel devices, nanoelectromechanical systems (NEMS) and microelectromechanical systems (MEMS). The integration, embedding, deposition, and/or lithographic process by which carbon nanotubules and carbon 60 structures, Nitinol (NiTi) structures or elements, Sapphire-Ti materials, Iridium, Rhodium and Rubidium metals and alloys. [0089] For an illustrated example as shown FIG 15 the darkening channel device is engineered with a functional gradient for detecting and quantifying radiation exposure. The darkening channel device is comprised of a germanium dope borosilicate glass fiber 142 or similar fiber material with a calibrated gradient and a diode 144 and a photonic detector 146 at opposites ends of the fiber 142.

[0090] Nanoelectromechanical systems (NEMS) have the ability to measure small displacements and forces at a molecular scale. In a preferred embodiment of the invention, as shown in FIG. 16, the functional element 104 comprises a silicon cantilever 146 with a width of about 6 microns and height of not more than about 240 microns creates an element to measure deflection forces at about the 12-20 attonewton level. This cantilever 146 in turn provides force data through a node 108 to a highly responsive mechanical component or another functional element such as a NiTi actuator 148. [0091] Referring to FIG. 10, current passing through a functional element

104 comprising a chiral or twisted nanotubule 130 causes rotation. It has been found that the resulting rotational or torsional motion generates an electric field that can be measured by an electrode detector. When a charge is placed on an electrode, the resulting electric field alters the frequency with which the functional element 104 rotates. The transducers in MEMS and NEMS convert mechanical energy into electrical or optical signals and vice versa. [0092] In another preferred embodiment of the invention, as shown in

FIG. 17, a functional element 104 comprising two components 150 create an electromechanical system where one is fixed and the other is movable such as rod. The two components 150 act as capacitor plates that convert the difference of the charge between them to an attractive force. [0093] It should now be understood by those skilled in the art that the article of the subject application may be utilized for numerous functional systems. In one illustrative example the article can be integrated to induce an electromagnetic field to provide aerodynamic cooling to supersonic, hypersonic, transatmospheric and space launch vehicles. By providing a microwave spike a reentry vehicle can reenter the earth's atmosphere with sufficient reduction of aerodynamic drag and aerodynamic cooling to reduce the amount of material shielding required. In a preferred embodiment, an adaptive geometry electromagnetic field can be generated and controlled by using a thin film or thick film thermal shielding system applied as an ANM with adaptive, self- organizing, and/or autonomous control resident within the shielding system. Such an electromagnetic or electrical field control system may reduce the incidence of vehicle generated lightning with is a significant threat to supersonic and hypersonic flight as well as transatmospheric flight. In another embodiment of the application, a current control system for orbital platforms can be created reducing the threat of spacecraft charging and improving structural health of the vehicle or platform. Such an article having an ANM can be used to alter, modify or control the dielectric of orbiting platforms. [0094] Another application of the article of the subject invention is an article comprising a high-temperature non-stick or low coefficient of friction coating such as the commercial product trademarked Sitram or any other similar product for creating an artificial neural membrane component for various aircraft and spacecraft components including engine components such as turbine engine components, lining for afterburners, and other high-temperature. It should now be understood to those skilled in the art that other applications including relatively low temperature application can benefit from by application of such a coating requiring a low friction surface.

[0095] In another preferred embodiment, the article may be utilized for intake bellows for high-speed, ramjet and scramjet engines and adaptive field geometry combustor liners, adaptive geometry combustors, nozzles and intakes for aircraft and high-speed engine applications including a field induction device with resident artificial neural membrane structure, thin film or thick film and/or composite or metal structure.

[0096] In another example, the article functions as a membrane vehicle designed to exploit the physics of clouds and cloud systems in order to remotely sense weather systems and monitor atmospheric and environmental phenomenon. The application is also conceptualized as a component of the Global Environmental Monitoring System or GEMS.

[0097] In another example, the article is used to provide function and control for structures and systems that include spacesuits, artificial organs, biological interface, programmable pharmaceuticals, membrane satellites and microspacecraft, rotating machinery, advanced sensors, ion engines, lenses, smart skin sensors fabrics and structures, membrane structures and vehicles, and space and civil structures.

[0098] In another example the article may be used to create movement such as a flapping wing which may be powered through an inner enzyme gel or through an aluminum gradient or both in the ANM. The gradient would generate electric current as the wing passes through saltwater. This would power nano actuators in underwater flight much as stingrays glide through water. The article could be used to monitor the submarine environment for pollutants, temperature, current flow, tracking marine life, and of course security.

[0099] In another example the article could be used for a space vehicle propelled by solar wind pressure as well as the reaction of solar particles with the thin film to create electricity to force solar wind away from the ANM propelling it in controlled direction. The thin film matrix will have an antenna, navigational, guidance and control circuits deposited as well as the integral ANN to provide intelligent control to the vehicle and vehicle subsystems. Missions would include communications, orbital security and remote sensing including space environmental monitoring of coronal mass ejections, geophysical storms, local radiation transfer, flux dynamics, and structures. It should now be understood that the space vehicle would provide autonomous and remotely controlled flight around orbital structures for surveillance of facilities including detection of structural damage, debris, and environmental hazards, provide monitoring of mechanical systems telerobotics, solar arrays, rail and crane systems and to inspect a variety of vehicles, structures and orbital operations.

[0100] ANM components support the functional structure as devices that provide mechanical movement and/or information processing, data storage, and detection of the physical environment including but not limited to light, temperature, ionizing and non-ionizing radiation, coherent light emissions, lasers, plasmas and rarified gases, chemicals, chemical emissions and gases, pressure, stress, strain, atomic and molecular spectra, biomagnetic and bioelectric fields, flow cytometry, and protein and protein based compounds. Components may function as but not limited to actuators, bellows, rotors, switches, linkages, artificial muscle, acoustic membranes, photonic emission devises or diodes, ion emitters, ion generators, plasma emitters, plasma generators, data or communication busses, sensors, solid-state memory, biochemical or organic device memory supporting information processing and or communications, and adaptive materials, components or ANM subsystems. [0101] It should now be apparent that the article of the subject invention can function as a static structural support or dynamic structural element or machine or vehicle. As a multifunctional smart structure the ANM may function as a structural or mechanical element of a machine, vehicle, device or appliance supporting adaptive, neural controlled and/or self-organizing function depending on the types of architectures present. Such functions as structural or mechanical components may be as an actuator, bellows, rotor, diaphragm, pump, turbine, hinge, aileron, rudder, aerodynamic elevator, adaptive or twisting wings, and flapping wings. The ANM may also encase, support, monitor and control any mechanical, optical or electrical component. Encase, support, monitor and control animal and human bones, prostheses, grafts or implants.

[0102] Although the foregoing invention has been described in some detail for purposes of clarity of understandings, it will be apparent that certain changes and modifications may be practiced within the scope of the appended claims. Accordingly, it should be understood that the present disclosure is to be considered as exemplary of the principals of the invention and is not intended to limit the invention to the embodiments illustrated and the invention is not to be limited to the details given herein, but may be modified within the scope and equivalents of the appended claims.

Claims

1. An article comprising one or more functional elements that operate to control the geometry of structures and/or operation of mechanical systems and functions to support information processing within an artificial neural membrane.

2. The article of Claim 1 wherein the artificial neural membrane operates as a substrate for one or more functional elements.

3. The article of Claim 1 wherein said functional element is formed from shaped memory alloy.

4. The article of Claim 3 wherein said shaped memory alloy comprises nickel and titanium.

5. The article of Claim 1 wherein said functional element is formed from carbon nanotubules.

6. The article of Claim 1 wherein said functional element is formed from carbon-60.

7. The article of Claim 1 wherein said functional element comprises graphene sheets formed together such that the functional element can expand or contract .

8. The article of Claim 1 wherein said functional elements are electrically coupled together through one or more nodes.

9. The article of Claim 8 wherein one or more of said nodes comprise one or more logic elements.

10. The article of Claim 8 wherein said nodes include one or more logic elements which operate to control the operation of each functional element.

11. The article of Claim 1 further comprising a power source electrically coupled to said functional elements.

12. The article of Claim 11 wherein said power source is an external power source.

13. The article of Claim 11 wherein said power source is formed by said artificial neural membrane and comprises a photovoltaic film.

14. The article of Claim 11 wherein said power source is formed by a chemical reaction within the artificial neural membrane.

15. The article of Claim 1 wherein said functional element operates to generate a specific mechanical response based on a specific input.

16. The article of Claim 1 wherein said functional element is an engineered structure formed from thin-film particle deposition.

17. The article of Claim 1 wherein said artificial neural membrane comprises two or more layers wherein one or more layers have one or more functional elements.

18. The article of Claim 1 wherein said artificial neural membrane comprises two or more layers wherein one or more layers comprises one more nanoelectromechanical devices.

19. The article of Claim 1 wherein said functional element comprises an engineered structure formed from a shaped memory alloy having alternating deposition of layers, geometries, and current isolating materials.

20. The article of Claim 1 wherein said artificial neural membrane comprises layers wherein one or more of said layers includes a sensor.

21. The article of Claim 1 wherein said artificial neural membrane comprises a logic circuit.

22. The article of Claim 21 wherein said logic circuits are in the form of quantum dots.

23. The article of Claim 1 wherein said article is selected from the group consisting of navigational devices, guidance systems, control systems, vehicle subsystems, remote sensing systems, communication systems, environmental sensing systems, monitoring systems, solar array systems, optical systems, actuators, and mechanical systems.

24. An article comprising: an artificial neural membrane; one or more functional elements mechanically supported by said artificial membrane; a plurality of nodes electrically coupled to two or more functional elements; a power system for supplying electric power to one or more of said nodes; wherein said function elements operate to control the geometry of structures and/or operation of mechanical systems.