State Machine Engine Write Halt Control for Overflow Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional computing systems face inefficiencies in pattern recognition tasks due to the need to search large data streams for multiple patterns sequentially, leading to increased processing time and bottlenecks, especially in identifying complex patterns like spam or malware.
Innovation Solution
A state machine engine with hierarchical parallel FSM lattices that analyze data streams in parallel, allowing multiple patterns to be recognized simultaneously, utilizing finite state machines (FSMs) and configurable switching elements to process high-bandwidth data streams efficiently.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If sequential pattern searching is used in conventional computing systems, then processing simplicity is maintained, but processing time increases and system efficiency deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the pattern recognition task into multiple parallel finite state machines (FSMs), each capable of independently searching for different patterns simultaneously. This segmentation allows the system to process multiple patterns in parallel rather than sequentially, dramatically improving recognition speed while maintaining processing simplicity through standardized FSM modules.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from sequential (one-dimensional) pattern processing to parallel (multi-dimensional) processing by deploying multiple FSMs that operate simultaneously on different patterns. This dimensional change from time-sequential to space-parallel architecture resolves the contradiction between processing speed and time loss.
2Productivity
If multiple patterns are searched simultaneously using parallel circuits, then pattern recognition speed improves, but system complexity increases and data stream handling becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs universal FSM modules that can be configured to search for different patterns through programmable state transitions and input conditions. Each FSM is multi-functional, capable of recognizing various patterns by loading different pattern definitions, thereby reducing overall system complexity compared to having dedicated circuits for each pattern.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces dynamic reconfigurability where FSMs can be programmatically adjusted to recognize different patterns at different times. This dynamic aspect allows the system to handle multiple patterns with a fixed number of FSMs, reducing hardware complexity while maintaining high pattern recognition speed through flexible, software-controlled pattern definitions.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the number of patterns to identify increases, then detection capability improves, but processing time increases and system bottleneck worsens
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs preliminary configuration of FSMs with pattern definitions before data stream processing begins. Patterns are pre-loaded into FSMs, and the system is prepared to simultaneously recognize multiple patterns as soon as the data stream arrives, eliminating sequential processing delays and maintaining high throughput even as pattern detection capability expands.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent ensures continuous parallel operation of multiple FSMs throughout the data stream processing, with no idle time between pattern searches. Each FSM continuously processes the data stream for its assigned patterns simultaneously, maintaining constant high productivity regardless of the number of patterns being detected, thus preventing system bottlenecks.
Data Source
AI summary
State machine engines are disclosed, including those having an inter-rank bus control system, which may include a register. The state machine engine may include a plurality of configurable elements, such that each of the plurality of configurable elements comprises a plurality of memory cells. These cells may analyze data and output a result of the analysis. The IR bus control system may halt a write operation of data to be analyzed by the cells based, at least in part, on one or more conditions.