The University of Arizona has launched the Artificial Intelligence Hardware Design League (AI-HDL), a pioneering competition aimed at integrating artificial intelligence (AI) into microchip design. This initiative offers students hands-on experience in semiconductor design, utilizing AI tools to streamline traditionally complex processes.
The four-phase AI-HDL competition commenced on October 25, 2024, attracting 200 undergraduate and graduate students from the University of Arizona and partner institutions, including Pima Community College, Pasadena City College, and several international universities. Participants, organized into teams of three to five, are tasked with designing a digital watch incorporating features such as an alarm clock, stopwatch, and security mechanisms. AI tools, including ChatGPT, assist in generating Verilog code for these designs
Dr. Liesl Folks, director of the University of Arizona Center for Semiconductor Manufacturing, highlighted the significance of microelectronics and the expanding opportunities within the field. She emphasized that semiconductors are integral to daily life, embedded in devices like smartphones, laptops, and tablets. Dr. Folks noted that participating in AI-HDL provides students with insights into technology development, serving as a valuable stepping stone in their careers.
Dr. Soheil Salehi, assistant professor of electrical and computer engineering and founder of AI-HDL, aims to make chip design accessible to students regardless of their academic background. He believes that powerful AI tools can simplify complex design tasks, enabling students to engage in semiconductor hardware design without prior engineering experience.
Participants benefit from mentorship provided by industry leaders from Arm Semiconductor Company and peer mentors, fostering a collaborative learning environment. Mentors offer weekly guidance, assisting teams in troubleshooting and refining their designs.
Sean Rice, an undergraduate electrical engineering student, secured the overall design award in the competition. He emphasized that AI enhances efficiency in intellectual work, allowing for rapid problem-solving and implementation. Rice’s design featured a digital watch equipped with an alarm clock, stopwatch, and security features, aligning with the competition’s core objectives.
The AI-HDL is sponsored by the University of Arizona Center for Semiconductor Manufacturing, Institute for Computation & Data-Enabled Insight, Department of Electrical & Computer Engineering, and industry leaders Arm and Efabless Corporation. Efabless Corporation has committed to fabricating the winning designs, providing participants with the opportunity to see their creations realized in physical form.
This competition underscores Arizona’s commitment to advancing semiconductor manufacturing and AI integration, preparing students for careers in these rapidly evolving industries.
