Embedded Processor Logic Element Configuration via Streaming Interface
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional embedded processors in integrated circuits are inefficient when used as logic elements due to their software-centric design, leading to significant processing time being consumed by driving input/output interfaces, which negatively impacts performance.
Innovation Solution
A processor embedded in an integrated circuit is configured with a point-to-point data streaming interface and arithmetic logic unit (ALU) circuitry, along with multiplexer logic, allowing direct data access to the ALU and incorporating branch logic for efficient instruction processing, and including a program counter and automatic loop logic to reduce overhead.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If a conventional embedded processor is used to implement a state machine, then the processor can perform sequential processing of instructions, but driving the input/output interface takes a large percentage of processing time which deteriorates performance
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the input/output interface operations from the main processor execution path by implementing a dedicated state machine architecture. The state machine handles input/output operations independently through dedicated logic circuits, removing these time-consuming operations from the processor's sequential instruction execution path, thereby resolving the contradiction between processing speed and I/O time consumption
2Adaptability or versatility
If a conventional embedded processor is designed with a software-centric view, then it can execute software programs, but it does not provide for efficient implementation of logic elements
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a multi-functional processing apparatus that can operate in multiple modes. The same processor core can execute software programs through the instruction queue and ALU, or function as a logic element through the state machine implementation using dedicated logic circuits. This universal design allows the system to adapt to different operational requirements, resolving the contradiction between software execution capability and logic element efficiency
Data Source
AI summary
Method and apparatus for configuring a processor embedded in an integrated circuit for use as a logic element is described. In one example, a processing apparatus in an integrated circuit includes a point-to-point data streaming interface and arithmetic logic unit (ALU) circuitry. The ALU circuitry includes at least one input port in communication with the point-to-point data streaming interface. The processor may also include a register file and multiplexer logic. The multiplexer logic is configured to selectively couple the register file and the point-to-point streaming interface to the at least one input port of the ALU circuitry.