Programmable Logic Power Inlet Reconfiguration for Variable Workloads

Resolve Bottlenecks,
Find Innovative Solutions
Generate Solutions

Solution Overview

Problem

Static power feeds for programmable logic devices result in inefficient power distribution for varying workloads, necessitating a more efficient power reconfiguration mechanism.

Innovation Solution

A system for reconfiguring power distribution in programmable logic devices by using a board management controller to select and implement configuration profiles based on workload requirements, adjusting voltage regulators and load switches to optimize power usage.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Loss of energy

If static power feeds are used for programmable logic devices, then power distribution is simple and stable, but power efficiency deteriorates for varying workloads

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvepower efficiencyVSAvoidpower distribution complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Loss of energyVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements dynamic power feed reconfiguration by enabling the programmable logic device to switch between different power feed configurations based on workload characteristics. The system transitions from static power assignment to dynamic power allocation, where power feeds are actively reconfigured to match operational demands, thereby improving power efficiency without excessive complexity

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The system changes power distribution parameters by adjusting which power feeds are active and how they are allocated to different functional blocks within the programmable logic device. This parameter reconfiguration allows the system to optimize power delivery according to workload requirements, addressing the energy loss issue while maintaining manageable system complexity

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

2Loss of energy

If power feeds are reconfigured based on workload, then power efficiency improves, but system complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvepower consumptionVSAvoidpower reconfiguration mechanism
Core Design Contradiction:
Loss of energyVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The programmable logic device performs self-service by autonomously monitoring its own workload characteristics and automatically reconfiguring its power feed assignments without requiring external intervention. This self-managed approach reduces the need for complex external control mechanisms while achieving power optimization, thereby limiting the increase in overall system complexity

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The system implements feedback mechanisms where the programmable logic device continuously monitors its operational state and uses this information to adjust power feed configurations. This closed-loop control enables intelligent power management that adapts to changing workloads while maintaining a manageable level of system complexity through automated decision-making

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

Data Source

PatentUS12423492B2Reconfigurable inlet power feed and integrated circuit power
Publication Date: 2025.09.23 ALTERA CORP
  • US12423492B2 patent drawing
  • US12423492B2 patent drawing
  • US12423492B2 patent drawing

AI summary

Systems and methods described herein may relate to power inlet reconfiguration of an integrated circuit device. In an embodiment, an add in card includes an integrated circuit including programmable logic circuitry. The add in card also includes any number of voltage regulators configured to supply power to the integrated circuit and a controller. The controller configures the programmable logic circuitry based on a configuration profile, determine a power level associated with the configuration profile, and adjust the plurality of voltage regulators and load switches based on the power level.