Physical neural network

A physical neural network is a type of artificial neural network in which an electrically adjustable resistance material is used to emulate the function of a neural synapse. "Physical" neural network is used to emphasize the reliance on physical hardware used to emulate neurons as opposed to software-based approaches which simulate neural networks. This terminology has been used to describe a type of artificial neural network patented by inventor Alex Nugent of KnowmTech in which neural synapses are based on variable resistance nanoconnections [1]. More generally the term is applicable to other artificial neural networks in which a memristor or other electrically adjustable resistance material is used to emulate a neural synapse.