Heterogeneous Multiprocessor IC with Reconfigurable Kernel Region
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Solution Overview
Problem
Heterogeneous multiprocessor systems face challenges in integrating programmable ICs effectively, as existing architectures have static device architectures that hinder dynamic interaction with host processors and efficient hardware acceleration of kernels.
Innovation Solution
The integration circuit includes a static region for interfacing with the host processor and a dynamic kernel region within the programmable IC, featuring interconnect circuit blocks with master and slave interfaces, enabling the kernel to receive commands from the host and function as a memory controller, thus facilitating dynamic reconfiguration and hardware acceleration.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a static device architecture is used in heterogeneous multiprocessor systems, then the system structure is simple and stable, but the dynamic interaction with host processors is hindered and hardware acceleration efficiency is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the Dynamics principle by implementing a reconfigurable device architecture that transitions from static to dynamic. The programmable logic region can be reconfigured at runtime to implement different kernel functions, and the interconnect architecture dynamically routes commands and data between the host processor and kernel region. This enables adaptive hardware acceleration while maintaining manageable complexity through structured reconfiguration interfaces.
2Productivity
If programmable ICs are integrated into heterogeneous multiprocessor designs, then hardware acceleration capability is enhanced, but integration complexity and interface requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the Universality principle by designing the kernel region with universal master and slave interfaces that can handle multiple types of operations. The slave interface universally receives commands from the host processor regardless of the specific kernel function being implemented, while the master interface universally provides hardware acceleration for different computational tasks. This multi-functionality reduces integration complexity by standardizing interfaces across diverse hardware acceleration scenarios.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the kernel region is made reconfigurable for dynamic operation, then flexibility and performance are enhanced, but the interface requirements and control mechanisms become more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies theIntermediaryprinciple by introducing a standardized interconnect architecture that mediates between the host processor and the reconfigurable kernel region. The interconnect includes master interfaces that initiate commands and slave interfaces that respond to commands, acting as an intermediary layer that simplifies control of the reconfigurable logic. This intermediary structure manages the complexity of dynamic reconfiguration by providing standardized protocols and interfaces that abstract the underlying reconfiguration mechanisms.
Data Source
AI summary
An integrated circuit (IC) includes a first region being static and providing an interface between the IC and a host processor. The first region includes a first interconnect circuit block having a first master interface and a second interconnect circuit block having a first slave interface. The IC includes a second region coupled to the first region. The second region implements a kernel of a heterogeneous, multiprocessor design and includes a slave interface coupled to the first master interface of the first interconnect circuit block and configured to receive commands from the host processor. The second region also includes a master interface coupled the first slave interface of the second interconnect circuit block, wherein the master interface of the second region is a master for a memory controller.