Polar Encoder Kernel Column Decomposition for Flexible Block Sizes
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Solution Overview
Problem
Prior art flexible polar encoders are inefficient in hardware utilization due to the dependence on the maximum number of stages in the polar code graph, leading to underutilization of hardware when encoding short blocks.
Innovation Solution
The proposed polar encoder decomposes the polar code graph into multiple columns, processing each column independently, which allows for high hardware utility across all block sizes by focusing on the maximum number of stages in each column, enabling efficient encoding with a smaller critical path length.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If the polar encoder kernel is designed to support various block sizes up to a maximum size, then the encoder can handle different communication requirements, but the hardware required and critical path length depend on the maximum number of stages, causing poor hardware efficiency when encoding short blocks
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies segmentation by dividing the polar code graph into multiple columns instead of processing it as a single large structure. Each column contains a subset of the stages, and the encoder processes one column at a time. This allows the hardware to be configured for a smaller maximum number of stages per column, reducing the critical path length and improving hardware efficiency for short blocks while still supporting various block sizes through multiple processing steps.
2Ease of operation
If the polar encoder processes the entire polar code graph in a single pass, then the encoding process is straightforward, but the critical path length increases with the maximum number of stages, reducing hardware utility for short blocks
Solution Approach 1:
The encoding process is segmented into multiple passes, with each pass processing one column of the polar code graph. This breaks down the single long critical path into multiple shorter critical paths, reducing the device complexity and improving hardware utility. The multi-pass approach maintains ease of operation by systematically processing each column in sequence.
Solution Approach 2:
The encoder uses periodic action by repeatedly processing columns in a systematic sequence. Each column is processed in a similar manner through structured steps, creating a periodic pattern of operation that simplifies control logic while reducing the critical path length compared to processing the entire graph in a single continuous pass.
Data Source
AI summary
A polar encoder kernel, a communication unit, an integrated circuit and a method of polar encoding are described. The polar encoder kernal is configured to receive one or more bits from a kernal information block having a kernal block size of N; and output one or more bits from a kernal encoded block having a block size that matches the kernal block size N; wherein the polar encoder kernal comprises a decomposition of a polar code graph having multiple columns that are processed by a reused single datapath, at least one of said multiple columns contains two or more stages and where each column of the multiple columns is further decomposed into one or more polar code sub-graphs and is configured to process encoded bits one polar code sub-graph at a time.