Parallel Interpolator Sample Distribution for High-Rate DSP

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing digital signal processing technologies face challenges in performing parallel processing operations when the sample rate exceeds the clock rate, limiting their ability to efficiently generate multiple output samples from a set of input samples.

Innovation Solution

A digital signal processing apparatus utilizing a hierarchical tree structure with splitting nodes to distribute input samples across multiple processing cores, allowing for parallel processing of input samples associated with different time shifts, thereby generating multiple output samples efficiently.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Speed

If sequential digital signal processing is used to perform interpolation, then processing simplicity is maintained, but processing speed and productivity are limited when sample rate exceeds clock rate

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveprocessing speedVSAvoidprocessing architecture complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
SpeedVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent divides the interpolation processing into multiple parallel processing paths, each handling a subset of output samples. The sample distribution logic splits the single input sample stream into multiple parallel streams that can be processed simultaneously by different processing units, thereby increasing overall processing speed without requiring a proportional increase in clock rate.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent transitions from sequential one-dimensional processing to parallel multi-dimensional processing by introducing multiple processing cores that operate simultaneously. The hierarchical tree structure adds another dimension of organization, allowing samples to be distributed and processed in a multi-level parallel architecture that exceeds the limitations of simple sequential processing.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

2Productivity

If parallel processing operations are implemented to generate multiple output samples, then productivity increases, but device complexity and area requirements increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveoutput sample generation rateVSAvoidprocessing architecture complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent designs processing cores that can handle multiple functions within a unified architecture. The same processing core structure is reused across multiple parallel paths, and the sample distribution logic serves both to divide samples for parallel processing and to recombine results. This multi-functional design increases productivity while controlling area growth through resource sharing.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent employs a hierarchical tree structure where smaller processing units are nested within larger processing stages. The sample distribution logic contains multiple splitting nodes that recursively divide the sample stream, and processing cores are organized in nested hierarchical levels. This nesting allows parallel processing capability to be built incrementally without requiring a complete redesign of the entire system.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #7Nested doll (Nesting)

3Adaptability or versatility

If high sample rate conversion is performed, then adaptability improves, but processing complexity and computational requirements increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesample rate conversion flexibilityVSAvoidprocessing complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements dynamic sample rate conversion by allowing the parallel processing architecture to adapt its operation based on the desired output sample rate. The sample distribution logic can dynamically adjust how input samples are divided and distributed to processing cores, enabling flexible conversion ratios without requiring dedicated hardware for each specific conversion rate. This dynamic adaptability reduces processing complexity compared to fixed-rate conversion designs.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Data Source

PatentUS20220286114A1Signal processing apparatus for generating a plurality of output samples
Publication Date: 2022.09.08 ADVANTEST CORP
  • US20220286114A1 patent drawing
  • US20220286114A1 patent drawing
  • US20220286114A1 patent drawing

AI summary

Embodiments of the present invention provide a digital signal processing apparatus, including an interpolator, an interpolating convolver, or the like, for providing a plurality of output samples or output values in parallel, such as P output samples provided by P Farrow cores, based on a set of input samples or input values, such as 2P+M−2 samples. The digital signal processing apparatus includes a sample distribution logic or structure configured to provide a plurality of subsets of the set of input samples to a plurality of processing cores, such as interpolation cores (e.g., Farrow cores) that perform processing operations associated with different time shifts, for example with respect to a reference time (e.g., a time associated with the input samples). The sample distribution logic includes a hierarchical tree structure having a plurality of hierarchical levels of splitting nodes.