Configurable Bus Dynamic Reconfiguration Static Multiplexer Limitations
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional multiplexers are limited to static N to 1 configurations, offering limited routing options and flexibility, which restricts their ability to dynamically interconnect inputs and outputs.
Innovation Solution
A configurable bus system that includes input/output ports, access switches, a cross-couple unit, and a microprocessor-controlled switch register, allowing for dynamic reconfiguration of bus segments and access lines to enable flexible interconnection of devices and multiplexing of inputs onto various access lines.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If conventional multiplexers use static N to 1 configuration with point-to-point interconnects, then the structure is simple and reliable, but the routing options and flexibility are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic reconfiguration capability where the multiplexer can change its connectivity topology from static to dynamic. The system allows programmable routing that can be reconfigured based on operational requirements, enabling flexible interconnection patterns rather than fixed point-to-point connections.
Solution Approach 2:
The multiplexer is divided into multiple independently controllable sections or segments that can be configured separately. This segmentation allows different portions of the multiplexer to operate with different routing configurations simultaneously, increasing overall system flexibility while maintaining manageable complexity through modular control.
2Adaptability or versatility
If static N to 1 multiplexer configuration is used, then the device complexity is low, but the adaptability to different interconnection requirements is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The multiplexer is designed to perform multiple routing functions through a single device. By implementing programmable configuration capabilities, the same multiplexer can be reconfigured to provide different interconnection topologies and routing patterns, eliminating the need for multiple specialized multiplexers for different applications.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes operational parameters such as routing paths, connection topologies, and interconnection patterns through programmable control. By dynamically adjusting these parameters, the multiplexer can adapt to different interconnection requirements without physical reconfiguration, maintaining low hardware complexity while achieving high software-based flexibility.
Data Source
AI summary
A configurable bus includes a plurality of bus segments. The configurable bus also includes two or more pluralities of input/output (I/O) ports. Each bus segment is coupled to at least one of the pluralities of I/O ports. Also coupled to the bus segments is a cross-couple unit that is configurable to selectively couple any of the bus segments together.