Here’s a breakdown of the key data from the provided text:
What was developed?
AtomThermCAD: Sophisticated software that predicts how materials in microchips generate and respond to heat, which is crucial for preventing overheating and failure. It’s short for Atom-to-Device Thermal Computer Aided Design software for nanometer-scale semiconductor devices.
Who developed it?
The CUANTAM Laboratory at the University of Colorado Boulder.
The research was primarily lead by Dr. Neogi.
What is the meaning of AtomThermCAD?
Addresses a critical challenge: Improves heat management at the nanoscale in microchips, boosting chip performance.
Uses advanced technology: Employs AI-accelerated quantum physics calculations to model semiconductors and their components at an atomic level.
More accurate than traditional methods: Predicts overheating in transistors too small to be seen by the naked eye.
Saves time and resources: Allows chip designers to test designs virtually, saving months or years compared to physical prototyping.
Potential for broader applications: Could be used for modeling thermal phenomena in other nanoscale technologies like medical devices, implants, and drug delivery systems.
What funding has supported this work?
$1 million DARPA MTO Thermonat grant: Awarded between 2023 and 2025, primarily supporting the research behind the software.
$150,000 grant from Colorado’s Office of Economic Development and International Trade (OEDIT): An advanced industries proof-of-concept grant to help bring the software to market.
$50,000 from Venture Partners at CU Boulder: Matched the OEDIT grant to support the startup.
What is the commercialization effort?
AtomTCAD Inc.: A startup launched by Dr. Neogi to bring atomthermcad to market for semiconductor manufacturers and other customers.
What is the impact on Colorado’s economy?
The work strengthens Colorado’s advanced technology sector and the rapidly growing semiconductor industry within the state.* The OEDIT grant aims to accelerate innovation, promote public-private partnerships, and encourage commercialization to boost the state’s economy.
