Co-Processor Command Timeout Detection Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for issuing processor commands to co-processors lack a maximum time limit, making it difficult for the main processor to determine if a co-processor is hung or simply taking additional time to complete a task, leading to uncertainty and potential software issues.
Innovation Solution
Incorporating a method where the main processor sends a command with a timeout value, allowing detection of execution problems such as insufficient progress or excessive execution time, and sending a command execution problem indication to the main processor if the co-processor exceeds this timeout.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the main processor polls or waits for co-processor completion without a timeout mechanism, then the co-processor can take unlimited time to complete tasks, but the main processor cannot determine if the co-processor is hung or simply taking additional time
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by establishing a timeout value in advance before the co-processor executes the command. This timeout value is stored in the command block and used to automatically determine whether the co-processor has hung or is simply taking longer than expected to complete the task. This resolves the technical contradiction by providing a predetermined criterion for status determination, eliminating the uncertainty period without requiring continuous polling.
2Reliability
If the main processor continuously polls the co-processor status, then the main processor can monitor execution progress, but the system complexity and software overhead increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies self-service by enabling the co-processor to automatically monitor its own execution status against the pre-stored timeout value. The co-processor compares the elapsed time with the timeout value and autonomously determines whether it has hung or exceeded the allowed execution time. This eliminates the need for continuous polling by the main processor, reducing system complexity while maintaining reliable execution status monitoring.
3Adaptability or versatility
If no timeout value is specified for co-processor commands, then the co-processor can execute tasks without time constraints, but the system cannot provide deterministic execution suitable for time-sensitive environments
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by making the timeout value configurable and adaptable to different command types and execution scenarios. The timeout value stored in the command block can be adjusted based on the specific task requirements, allowing the system to balance between execution flexibility and deterministic timing. This resolves the contradiction by enabling time-sensitive environments to specify appropriate timeout values while maintaining flexibility for different application scenarios.
Data Source
AI summary
When a main processor issues a command to co-processor, a timeout value is included in the command. As the co-processor attempts to execute the command, it is determined whether the attempt is taking time beyond what is permitted by the timeout value. If the timeout is exceeded then responsive action is taken, such as the generation of a command timeout type failure message. The receipt of the command with the timeout value, and the consequent determination of a timeout condition for the command, may be determined by: the co-processor that receives the command, or a watchdog timer that is separate from the co-processor. Also, detection of co-processor hang and/or hung co-processor conditions during the time that a co-processor is executing a command for the main processor.