Programmable Logic Routing Network With Multi-Stage Switch Boxes
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Current programmable logic devices face challenges in efficiently configuring and interconnecting logic blocks through routing networks, particularly in managing feedback, street, and clock networks, which can lead to suboptimal performance due to limitations in switch box connectivity and signal routing.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of a programmable logic device with a routing network that includes multiple stages of switch boxes, where each stage has specific configurations and connectivity options, allowing for flexible interconnection of logic islands and neighboring blocks, enabling efficient signal routing and clock distribution.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a routing network with multiple stages of switch boxes is implemented, then the ability to interconnect logic blocks and manage signals is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The routing network is divided into multiple stages of switch boxes, where each stage handles specific routing functions. This segmentation allows complex routing tasks to be broken down into manageable stages, improving overall routing flexibility while keeping each individual switch box configuration manageable.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a multi-dimensional routing architecture with stages arranged in sequence, adding a temporal dimension to the routing process. Signals can be routed through different stages at different times, enabling probabilistic non-blocking behavior without requiring all switch boxes to be simultaneously configured for every possible connection.
2Productivity
If probabilistic non-blocking is ensured for high-demand signals, then signal routing efficiency is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The routing network implements probabilistic non-blocking behavior dynamically, where the blocking probability adjusts based on signal demand. High-demand signals receive preferential routing through the multi-stage switch boxes, ensuring efficient signal routing while the system adapts to changing traffic patterns without requiring static complex configuration.
3Adaptability or versatility
If flexible routing and clock distribution are enabled, then the adaptability of the logic block interconnection is improved, but the manufacturing precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The switch boxes are designed as universal components that can handle multiple functions including data routing, feedback signaling, and clock distribution. This multi-functionality reduces the need for specialized components with tight manufacturing tolerances, as a single standardized switch box design can accommodate various routing requirements through programmable configuration rather than physical customization.
Data Source
AI summary
A routing network is associated with a logic island in a logic block of a programmable logic device and includes switches for each of feedback, street, and highway and clock networks. Some of the switches include multiple stages. The feedback network switch receives signals from the logic island as well as from neighboring logic blocks and provides an output to one or more stages of the street network switch. The street network switch receives the signals from the feedback network switch and signals from neighboring highway network switches and provides an output to the logic island. A clock network switch may receive dedicated clock signals or high fan out signals as inputs and provides outputs to the street network switch. The highway network switch receives signals from the logic island and from neighboring highway network switches and provides an output to neighboring highway network switches.