High-level synthesis hazard detection circuit for pipeline data conflicts
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing high-level synthesis systems struggle to properly detect hazards when array subscripts are variables, leading to potential misidentification of data hazards and difficulties in pipeline processing.
Innovation Solution
A high-level synthesis apparatus that includes a hazard detection circuit adding unit, which inserts a hazard detection circuit into the pipeline circuit to dynamically detect hazards during RTL simulation, and a circuit description generating unit that outputs a circuit description with the added hazard detection circuit.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If existing high-level synthesis systems are used without hazard detection circuits, then the pipeline circuit can be generated quickly, but hazards cannot be properly detected when array subscripts are variables
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a hazard detection circuit as an intermediary component between the array access unit and the pipeline control logic. This circuit monitors array subscript variables and detects potential hazards by comparing subscript values across pipeline stages, thereby enabling accurate hazard detection without requiring fundamental changes to the existing pipeline architecture
Solution Approach 2:
The hazard detection circuit performs preliminary detection of potential hazards by monitoring array subscript variables before they cause actual data conflicts. By detecting hazards in advance during the pipeline execution, the system can take corrective actions (such as stalling or flushing pipeline stages) to prevent incorrect results
2Reliability
If simulation is performed to detect hazards with variable subscripts, then accurate hazard detection is possible, but the synthesis process becomes time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical simulation process with a hardware-based hazard detection circuit that operates in parallel with the pipeline execution. Instead of sequentially simulating each scenario to detect hazards, the circuit continuously monitors array subscript variables in real-time, providing immediate hazard detection without the time overhead of simulation
Solution Approach 2:
The hazard detection circuit performs self-service by autonomously monitoring array subscript variables and detecting hazards without requiring external simulation or control. The circuit independently compares subscript values across pipeline stages and generates hazard detection signals, eliminating the need for time-consuming external verification processes
Data Source
AI summary
A high-level synthesis apparatus generating a circuit description in response to input of a behavioral description describing the behavior of a circuit includes: a hazard detection circuit adding unit that adds a hazard detection circuit determining the presence or absence of occurrence of hazard to a pipeline circuit generated in accordance with the behavioral description; and a circuit description generating unit that generates the circuit description describing the pipeline circuit with the hazard detection circuit added by the hazard detection circuit adding unit.