3D CPU Bus Interrupt Architecture for Single-Cycle Response
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing multi-CPU computing systems face challenges in achieving flexible functional partitioning, managing computing context, and reducing latency and overhead during interrupts, often necessitating complex hardware-based solutions.
Innovation Solution
A 3D dataflow architecture using Reconfigurable Algorithmic Pipeline Cores (RAPCs) with a metatag-based priority system allows for single clock cycle interrupt response and minimal cycle disruption, eliminating the need for complex interrupt structures and context switching.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of time
If traditional multi-CPU interrupt structures are used, then interrupt handling capability is provided, but latency and overhead increase
Solution Approach 1:
The interrupt handling function is segmented from the main CPU computing sequence. A dedicated interrupt processing path is created that operates independently, allowing interrupt service routines to execute without blocking the main computational flow. This segmentation enables single-cycle interrupt response while maintaining complex interrupt handling capabilities.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a third dimension (Z-axis) to the traditional 2D CPU array architecture. This additional dimension provides dedicated interrupt processing resources that coexist with the main computing planes, enabling fast interrupt response without interfering with normal computational operations. The Z-axis layers handle interrupt context switching and service routine execution separately from the X-Y plane computing tasks.
2Adaptability or versatility
If complex interrupt structures are implemented, then full vectored interrupt capability is achieved, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The dedicated interrupt processing path and Z-axis resources are designed to handle multiple types of interrupt scenarios universally. The same infrastructure supports both simple and complex vectored interrupt operations, providing full interrupt capability without requiring separate specialized structures for different interrupt types. This multi-functional design achieves versatility without proportional increases in complexity.
3Ease of operation
If context switching is performed during interrupts, then interrupt service is provided, but computing context management becomes complex
Solution Approach 1:
The context switching operation is extracted from the main CPU computing path and placed in the dedicated interrupt processing path. This extraction allows context management to occur independently without affecting the main computational sequence. The interrupt processing units handle context save/restore operations separately, simplifying the overall system by isolating complex context management from the primary computing flow.
4Loss of time
If fast interrupt response is achieved, then latency is reduced, but overhead in main computing sequences increases
Solution Approach 1:
The computing system is segmented into independent processing paths: the main CPU computing sequence continues uninterrupted in the X-Y planes while interrupt service routines execute in the dedicated Z-axis path. This segmentation ensures that fast interrupt response does not consume cycles from the main computing sequence, as the two operations occur in parallel independent channels. The main computing throughput is preserved because interrupt handling is performed by separate dedicated resources.
Data Source
AI summary
A multiple CPU pseudo 3D structure is provided that allows single clock cycle interrupt latency, requires no context storage while taking only a single cycle away from normal programs. Multiple interrupts are given flexible vectored parallel computing responses without timing interactions.