Configurable Counter Circuit for Synchronized Operation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing electronic systems face challenges in synchronizing multiple operations effectively, as initial synchronization settings become outdated due to new software or component additions, leading to inefficiencies and inflexibility.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of configurable counter circuits within operational circuit blocks, which can be programmed for asynchronous or synchronous modes, allowing for flexible synchronization by issuing control event signals based on expiration or external events, enabling reconfiguration of synchronization parameters.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Stability of the object's composition
If synchronization settings are fixed at manufacturing, then initial system stability is ensured, but the system becomes outdated and inflexible when new software or components are added
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic synchronization by allowing the system to switch between fixed synchronization (using original sync sources) and flexible synchronization (using new sync sources) modes. The processor can programmatically reconfigure which operational circuit blocks synchronize to which clock sources based on runtime conditions, enabling the system to adapt its synchronization behavior rather than being locked into a fixed configuration
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes synchronization parameters dynamically by allowing reconfiguration of sync source selection, sync mode (asynchronous/synchronous), and operational timing parameters. The processor can modify these parameters at runtime to match new software or hardware requirements, transforming the synchronization characteristics to maintain system coherence while adapting to changes
2Productivity
If the system uses fixed synchronization modes, then initial operational efficiency is maintained, but flexibility is lost when reconfiguration is needed
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a universal synchronization framework where the same operational circuit blocks can operate in multiple synchronization modes (asynchronous or synchronous) and can synchronize to different clock sources depending on requirements. This multi-functionality allows the system to maintain high efficiency in each specific mode while providing flexibility to switch between modes and configurations as needed
3Reliability
If synchronization is rigidly enforced, then system coherence is maintained, but responsiveness to new requirements deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The system incorporates feedback mechanisms where the processor monitors system state and can detect when reconfiguration is needed. Based on this feedback, the processor can programmatically adjust synchronization settings, switch between sync sources, and modify operational timing to maintain coherence while adapting to new requirements. The feedback loop enables continuous optimization of the synchronization configuration
Data Source
AI summary
A system includes operational circuit blocks associated with configurable counter circuits. A configurable counter circuit is configured to control event signal when counting expires and includes a mode input configured to receive a setting of a programmable control event asynchronous mode and a programmable control event synchronous mode. Depending on the programmed mode and whether a control event has occurred in a previous synchronization period, the configurable counter circuit processes an associated operation responsive to issuance of a synchronization instruction or to issuance of a subsequent control event.