Multi-Processor Dynamic Power Control via Data Rate Partitioning
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Solution Overview
Problem
High-speed multi-processor systems face challenges in dynamically adjusting power consumption to optimize performance, as they often require significant resources for parallel data processing, leading to inefficient power utilization during periods of low demand.
Innovation Solution
A multi-processor system with dynamic power optimization that includes generating input and output rate control signals to partition data streams and operate processors in different modes, such as full rate and idle modes, by gating clock inputs or powering off processors, to adjust performance based on data throughput and configuration.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If parallel data processing is used to increase throughput, then processing capacity is improved, but power consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic power management by allowing processors to transition between active and idle states based on real-time workload conditions. The system continuously monitors input data rates and dynamically adjusts the number of active processors, enabling the processing capacity to be flexible rather than fixed. This resolves the contradiction by making throughput adaptable to actual demand while minimizing power consumption during low-utilization periods.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes operational parameters by adjusting the clock frequency and power supply voltage of processors based on workload demands. When input data rate is low, processors operate at reduced frequency and voltage, thereby reducing power consumption while maintaining adequate processing capability. This parameter adjustment strategy allows the system to optimize the trade-off between throughput and power consumption dynamically.
2Speed
If multiple processors are operated at full rate, then processing speed is improved, but power utilization efficiency deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies partial action by operating only the necessary number of processors at full speed rather than all processors continuously. The system determines the optimal number of active processors based on input data rate and processes data using only that portion of processing capacity, leaving other processors in idle or low-power states. This eliminates wasted energy from operating excess processors at full rate when they are not needed.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a universal processor pool where any processor can handle any processing task. Processors can dynamically transition between active processing, idle, and power-down states based on system demands. This multi-functionality allows the system to maintain high processing speed when needed while achieving excellent power utilization efficiency during low-demand periods, as the same hardware resources serve multiple operational modes.
Data Source
AI summary
A multi-processor system with dynamic power optimization for an integrated circuit and methods thereof are described. An input rate control signal is generated responsive to at least one input data stream. An output rate control signal is generated responsive to an output of the plurality of processors. The input rate control signal and the output rate control signal are monitored. The at least one input data stream is partitioned in response to the input rate control signal. The partitioned data is distributed to at least a portion of the plurality of processors. The plurality of processors is operated in a plurality of modes responsive to the monitoring.