Integration of IGZO-based memristor and Pt-based temperature sensor for enhanced artificial nociceptor system

A biological nociceptor functions as a sensory neuron receptor that detects external stimuli and transforms information to the central nervous system, prompting an appropriate response in the human body. In this study, we introduce and experimentally demonstrate a biological receptor system by integrating an IGZO-memristor with a temperature sensor to mimic the dynamics of biological thermoreceptors, including responses to innocuous and noxious stimuli. The IGZO-memristor exhibits a stable bipolar switching response with excellent endurance and retention properties, also revealing biological synaptic functionalities such as hyperalgesia and allodynia. Through our biological receptor system, we placed the temperature sensor on a hot plate and successfully emulated the biological responses of innocuous and noxious functions at different temperature levels 40 °C and 70 °C at the memristor end, respectively. This innovative approach introduces artificial nociceptor devices into artificial intelligence systems, providing a novel platform for the development of intelligent systems capable of mimicking human sensory responses.