Network Processor Functional Modules for Lower ALU Resource Use
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing network processors require a large number of ALUs to perform complex service functions, leading to high resource consumption, increased costs, and reduced performance due to inefficient utilization of ALU arrays.
Innovation Solution
Implement a data processing apparatus with parallel functional modules that abstract service sub-functions into categories, allowing each module to perform specific service sub-functions, reducing the need for multiple ALUs and optimizing resource usage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a large quantity of ALUs is included in the ALU array to implement complex service functions, then the service function capability is improved, but the resource consumption and processor costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the ALU array into multiple independent ALUs, each dedicated to performing a specific service sub-function. This segmentation allows the system to implement complex service functions by coordinating multiple specialized ALUs rather than requiring a single large ALU array, thereby reducing overall resource consumption while maintaining service function capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements multi-functionality by enabling each ALU in the array to serve multiple purposes through flexible scheduling and control. The control unit coordinates multiple ALUs to perform different service sub-functions on different data items simultaneously, allowing the same hardware resources to be universally utilized for various service functions without requiring dedicated hardware for each function.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a large quantity of ALUs is included in the ALU array to implement complex service functions, then the service function capability is improved, but the processor costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the processing task into multiple independent service sub-functions, each handled by a dedicated ALU. This segmentation reduces the total number of ALUs required compared to a monolithic ALU array design, thereby reducing manufacturing costs and complexity while maintaining the ability to implement complex service functions through coordinated operation of multiple simpler units.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent achieves cost reduction by implementing universal ALUs that can perform multiple service sub-functions through software-controlled scheduling. This eliminates the need for expensive dedicated hardware for each service function, allowing a smaller, more cost-effective ALU array to handle diverse service requirements through flexible multi-functional operation.
3Adaptability or versatility
If a large quantity of ALUs is included in the ALU array to implement complex service functions, then the service function capability is improved, but the chip area increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the service function implementation into multiple independent ALUs, each with dedicated functionality. This segmentation allows for a more compact chip layout compared to a large monolithic ALU array, as each ALU can be smaller and positioned independently, reducing the total chip area while maintaining the capability to implement complex service functions through parallel operation of multiple units.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent reduces chip area by implementing multi-functional ALUs that can perform various service sub-functions through controlled operation. This universality eliminates the need for separate dedicated hardware circuits for each service function, allowing a smaller ALU array with fewer, more compact units to achieve the same service function capability, thereby reducing overall chip area.
4Productivity
If multiple ALUs are used to implement service sub-functions, then the processing capability is improved, but the ALU array structure becomes complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the processing task into independent service sub-functions, each assigned to a dedicated ALU. This segmentation simplifies the ALU array structure by eliminating the need for complex interconnections and coordination mechanisms required in monolithic ALU arrays. Each ALU operates independently on its assigned data item, reducing structural complexity while maintaining high processing capability through parallel execution of multiple simple units.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent simplifies the ALU array structure by implementing universal ALUs with standardized interfaces and control mechanisms that can perform multiple service sub-functions. This universality reduces the structural diversity and complexity of the ALU array, as all ALUs follow the same design template and control protocol, making the array easier to manage and less complex while maintaining enhanced processing capability through flexible multi-functional operation.
Data Source
AI summary
A data processing apparatus includes a searching module, a first functional module (FM), and a second FM. The first FM implements a service sub-function of a first category. The second FM implements a service sub-function of a second category. The searching module determines first entry data based on first data in target data, and determines second entry data based on second data in the target data. The first data is related to a first service sub-function. The second data is related to a second service sub-function. The first service sub-function belongs to the first category. The second service sub-function belongs to the second category. The first FM performs a first functional operation based on the first data and the first entry data. The second FM performs a second functional operation based on the second data and the second entry data.