BrainChip and Chelpis Collaborate on Post-Quantum Cryptographic Security for Advanced Robotics
BrainChip Holdings Ltd (ASX: BRN, OTCQX: BRCHF, ADR: BCHPY), a pioneer in ultra-low power, event-based neuromorphic AI technology, has entered into a strategic collaboration with Chelpis Quantum Corp., a Taiwanese chip company leading the Quantum Safe Migration ecosystem. The partnership centers on the integration of BrainChip's Akida AKD1000 chips, which offer advanced edge AI and security capabilities, into Chelpis' M.2 card designs. Chelpis is currently working on an M.2 card that will be equipped with the AKD1000 to enhance the cryptographic security of various devices. The card is designed to be easily integrated into products, ensuring they meet the stringent security standards required in the era of quantum computing. Under the agreement, Chelpis will purchase a significant number of AKD1000 chips for qualification and initial deployment, with plans to scale up production and procurement upon successful completion of this phase. The collaboration also extends to a joint development project with Mirle, a company specializing in industrial automation. Together, they aim to create an AI-PQC (Post-Quantum Cryptographic) robotic chip that combines RISC-V architecture, PQC, and neural processing unit (NPU) technologies. This innovative SoC is being proposed to Taiwan’s chip innovation program, seeking government funding to support the advancement of manufacturing technologies that align with a Made-in-USA strategy. Mirle envisions building autonomous quadruped robots that can navigate and operate efficiently in industrial and factory settings. These robots will mimic the movements of four-legged animals and integrate advanced visual generative AI (GenAI) capabilities, facilitated by the Akida IP. The combination of low-power, efficient data processing and enhanced security provided by the AKD1000 is crucial for validating the robots in the competitive industrial sector. Ming Chih, CEO of Chelpis, emphasized the importance of the partnership, stating, "The ability to add Edge AI security capabilities to our industrial robotics project that provides the low power data processing required is paramount to successfully achieving market validation in the robotics sector. We believe that BrainChip’s Akida is just the solution we need to bring our SoC to fruition. Their event-based processing and advanced models serve as a strong foundation for developing a platform for manufacturing customers looking to leverage advanced robotics in their facilities." Sean Hehir, CEO of BrainChip, highlighted the unique advantages of Akida, saying, "Akida’s ability to efficiently provide cyber-security acceleration with energy efficiency can help secure autonomous robotic devices. Akida’s innovative approach to supporting large language models (LLMs) and GenAI algorithms could serve as a key contributor to Chelpis as they pursue government funding to develop their SoC and advance their industrial robotic initiatives." BrainChip's Akida chip is designed to emulate the human brain's efficiency by processing only essential sensor inputs at the point of acquisition, significantly reducing latency and power consumption while improving privacy and data security. This capability is particularly valuable for edge computing applications, where immediate decision-making and minimal reliance on cloud infrastructure are critical. Akida’s Neural Processor IP can be integrated into SoCs using any process technology, making it versatile for a wide range of industries, including automotive, consumer electronics, and industrial IoT. Industry insiders view this collaboration as a significant step forward in addressing the growing concerns of quantum computing threats to cybersecurity, while also advancing the capabilities of edge AI. By combining Chelpis’ expertise in PQC and chip design with BrainChip’s AI processing technology and Mirle’s experience in industrial robotics, the trio aims to develop a cutting-edge solution that can revolutionize manufacturing processes and enhance overall security. The potential success of this collaboration could set a new standard for secure, efficient, and independent AI-powered devices in various sectors. Company Profiles: - BrainChip Holdings Ltd: A global leader in edge AI on-chip processing and learning, BrainChip developed the Akida chip, which uses neuromorphic principles to analyze essential sensor inputs at the point of acquisition, providing unparalleled efficiency, precision, and energy economy. - Chelpis Quantum Corp.: Specializes in advanced chip design, cybersecurity, and post-quantum cryptography. Chelpis is actively involved in international standardization efforts and is developing innovative SoC solutions for smart manufacturing and other high-security applications. - Mirle: Focuses on industrial automation and aims to build autonomous quadruped robots for industrial and factory environments, leveraging advanced visual GenAI capabilities.