Single event effects evaluation on convolution neural network in Xilinx 28 nm system on chip

Abstract Convolutional neural networks (CNNs) exhibit excellent performance in the areas of image recognition and object detection, which can enhance the intelligence level of spacecraft. However, in aerospace, energetic particles, such as heavy ions, protons, and alpha particles, can induce single event effects (SEEs) that lead CNNs to malfunction and can significantly impact the reliability of a CNN system. In this paper, the MNIST CNN system was constructed based on a 28 nm system-on-chip (SoC), and then an alpha particle irradiation experiment and fault injection were applied to evaluate the SEE of the CNN system. Various types of soft errors in the CNN system have been detected, and the SEE cross sections have been calculated. Furthermore, the mechanisms behind some soft errors have been explained. This research will provide technical support for the design of radiation-resistant artificial intelligence chips.