Hardware-Centric MAC Device Reducing Dual-Processor Complexity
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current data communication devices require dual-core processors for effective medium access control, leading to complex and expensive designs, especially when including digital signal processors, which consume more power and are costly.
Innovation Solution
A hardware-centric medium access control (MAC) device that uses a single microprocessor, such as a RISC processor, to perform real-time data communication functions without the need for a digital signal processor, optimizing data locality and processing efficiency through hardware-based MAC functionality and proactive power control.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If dual-core processors are used for medium access control, then real-time processing requirements are met, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the processor functionality by separating the medium access control (MAC) functions from the main application processor. The MAC layer is implemented as a distinct hardware module that handles real-time wireless communication protocols independently, while the main processor handles higher-layer applications. This segmentation allows real-time MAC operations to occur without being blocked by application-level interrupt disable operations, resolving the contradiction between real-time reliability and system complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary hardware MAC controller that acts as a mediator between the physical layer and the main processor. This intermediary handles the time-critical MAC functions (frame assembly, dispersion, acknowledgment) in hardware, preventing these operations from blocking the main processor and eliminating the need for dual-core architecture while maintaining real-time performance.
2Reliability
If digital signal processors are included for media processing, then real-time voice communication is achieved, but manufacturing cost and design complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes the main microprocessor universal by enabling it to handle both application processing and real-time media processing through optimized software execution. The processor is configured to execute voice communication applications and MAC functions without requiring a dedicated DSP, thereby reducing component count and manufacturing cost while maintaining real-time voice communication capability through efficient software-based processing.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces expensive dedicated DSP components with a more economical general-purpose microprocessor that can perform real-time voice processing through software. This substitution uses a cheaper, more readily available processor that can be programmed to handle time-critical voice communication functions, thereby reducing manufacturing cost and design complexity while achieving the same functional outcome.
3Productivity
If dual processors are operated, then real-time functions and applications run simultaneously, but power consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the functionality of two separate processors into a single microprocessor by implementing the MAC layer as a hardware-accelerated module within the same processor that handles both application and real-time communication functions. This consolidation eliminates the need for two independently powered processors, reducing overall power consumption while maintaining the capability to execute real-time MAC operations and application code concurrently through hardware-software cooperation.
Data Source
AI summary
A hardware-centric medium access control (MAC) device comprises a control plane module and a hardware media access planed module. The control plane module is configured for providing control functions of the hardware-centric MAC device. The hardware media access plane module communicatively coupled to the control plane module is configured for performing real-time data communication functions without requiring a microprocessor.