Precharge-Conditional Discharge Circuit for FSM Synchronization
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Solution Overview
Problem
Synchronizing the operation of multiple asynchronous finite state machines is complicated by the need to ensure all machines complete their operations at the same pace, leading to potential loss of synchronization and system malfunction if not properly managed.
Innovation Solution
A method using a precharge-conditional discharge circuit to sense ready signals from multiple finite state machines, requiring a unanimous vote before proceeding, which ensures all machines are synchronized before advancing the system.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If multiple asynchronous finite state machines operate in parallel, then system productivity is improved, but loss of synchronization occurs leading to system malfunction
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a voting circuit as an intermediary component that mediates between multiple asynchronous finite state machines. The voting circuit collects ready signals from all machines and generates a unified proceed signal only when all machines are ready, thus maintaining synchronization without requiring the machines to operate at the same speed, resolving the contradiction between productivity and synchronization reliability.
2Device complexity
If ready signals from multiple finite state machines are combined without voting, then device complexity is reduced, but loss of synchronization and system malfunction occur
Solution Approach 1:
The voting circuit serves as a simple intermediary that performs the essential function of synchronization verification. By using a dedicated voting component, the patent avoids the need for complex inter-machine communication and coordination logic, keeping the overall device complexity manageable while ensuring reliable synchronization through the voting mechanism.
3Reliability
If a voting circuit is used to combine ready signals, then synchronization reliability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the synchronization function into a dedicated voting circuit module, separating it from the finite state machines themselves. This segmentation allows the voting logic to be implemented as a standalone component with well-defined interfaces, making the system more modular and easier to manage despite the added complexity. The voting circuit handles the synchronization burden independently, allowing the finite state machines to focus on their primary functions.
4Stability of the object's composition
If asynchronous operations are synchronized, then system stability is improved, but loss of time occurs due to waiting
Solution Approach 1:
The voting circuit performs preliminary verification of readiness status before allowing the system to proceed. By checking all ready signals in advance through the voting mechanism, the system ensures synchronization is established before advancing, preventing later instability and rework. This preliminary action approach trades some waiting time for significant gains in system stability and error prevention.
Data Source
AI summary
This invention is a method of operating a system having multiple finite state machines where each finite state machine generating a ready signal when its operation is complete. This invention senses the multiple ready signals and waits until all the finite state machines generate the ready signal. This waiting can be accomplished with a precharge-conditional discharge circuit used for voting.