Conventional computers have been supported by improving CPU operating clock frequencies, but with the slowing down of semiconductor miniaturization process in the first half of 2000s, the clock frequency has ceased to increase. Recently, Hitachi developed a new concept of Ising computer specializing in optimization problems. This computer does not perform calculation sequentially like a conventional computer. Instead, considering the optimization problem such as the behavior of the spin of the magnetic material, and by executing and observing the convergence behavior of this physical phenomenon, we find the optimum approximate solution in a short time. Taking, for example, logistics costs of social environments such as snow removal cost minimization, the Ising calculator is capable of solving this difficult problem.

In order to further develop this Ising calculator, it is important to look for optimization problems, to consider their application widely, and to solve optimization problems inherent to complex social environments. We recruit students from various undergraduate departments of Hokkaido University to work on these problems.

On this occasion, a seminar by Hitachi researchers will be held three times in total: at the mathematics department, at the department of science, and the department of information science. Mathematics, information science, and many other students (humanities etc.) are invited to gather at these seminars. At the Graduate School of Information Science, the seminar will also explain the underlying hardware concepts.

Place: Room 4-501 on the 5th floor, Building 4, Faculty of Science
Tuesday, January 10 (Tue) 10:00-12:00 (Language: Japanese)
Thursday, January 12 (Thu) 13:00~15:00 (Language: English main)
Contents: Ising computer outline, mathematical solution for Ising calculator

Place: 5th floor conference room of information science building (5-08)
January 20 13:00-16:00 (Language: Japanese)
Contents:
13:00-13:15 Ising computer outline
13:15-14:15 Ising hardware
14:15-14:30 break
14:30-16:00 Mathematical solution for Ising calculator

Lecturer (3 people):
Hitachi Research and Development Group, Basic Research Center, Takashi Takemoto, Senior Researcher
Hitachi Research and Development Group, Basic Research Center, Hiroshi Teramoto, Visiting Director
Hitachi Research and Development Group, Basic Research Center, Saki Tanaka