Adaptive FIFO Controller for Latency Reduction

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Solution Overview

Problem

Static FIFO settings based on worst-case design scenarios lead to increased latency in data communication between electronic devices with slightly varying clock signals, even if the variations are minimal.

Innovation Solution

A FIFO settings controller that dynamically adjusts FIFO settings based on the actual parts-per-million (PPM) difference between the transmission and reception frequencies, reducing latency by optimizing start read, full, and empty threshold settings.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If static FIFO settings are used based on worst-case design scenarios, then reliability is improved, but latency increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedata communication reliabilityVSAvoiddata communication latency
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements dynamic FIFO control by continuously monitoring the actual frequency difference between transmitting and receiving devices and adjusting FIFO settings in real-time based on measured conditions rather than relying on static worst-case assumptions

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The system changes FIFO parameters (such as threshold settings and buffer sizes) dynamically based on the measured frequency offset, allowing the FIFO configuration to adapt to actual operating conditions and minimize latency while maintaining reliability

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

2Adaptability or versatility

If static FIFO settings are used based on design specifications, then adaptability is improved, but productivity deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
ImproveFIFO setting adaptabilityVSAvoiddata communication efficiency
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent employs feedback mechanisms where the actual frequency difference is measured and used to adjust FIFO settings dynamically, creating a closed-loop system that continuously optimizes performance based on real-time conditions

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

Solution Approach 2:

The system performs self-adjustment by automatically measuring frequency offsets and modifying its own FIFO configuration without external intervention, enabling it to self-optimize for different operating conditions

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Data Source

PatentUS10146249B2Adaptive rate-matching first-in first-out (FIFO) system
Publication Date: 2018.12.04 ALTERA CORP
  • US10146249B2 patent drawing
  • US10146249B2 patent drawing
  • US10146249B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A control system controls First-In First-Out (FIFO) settings of a receiving system. The control system includes a FIFO settings controller that receives a first signal indicative of a first frequency of data received by the receiving system. The FIFO settings controller receives a second signal indicative of a second frequency of a clock that reads the data received by the receiving system. The FIFO settings controller determines a difference (e.g., a parts-per-million (PPM) difference) between the first frequency and the second frequency. The FIFO settings controller sends a third signal indicative of instructions to adjust FIFO configuration settings based on the PPM difference.