Programmable Interconnect Matrix for Reconfigurable PSoC Peripherals
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional programmable logic devices (PLDs) and field-programmable gate arrays (FPGAs) face challenges such as high power consumption and large silicon area, which complicate the implementation of additional peripherals in complex electronic systems, leading to increased costs and development cycles.
Innovation Solution
A Programmable System on Chip (PSoC) architecture with a system-level interconnect matrix that dynamically connects various functional elements and I/O pins, allowing for real-time reconfiguration of digital and analog blocks to form a wide range of functional modules, thereby optimizing resource usage and reducing the need for additional components.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If additional peripheral units are implemented in complex electronic systems, then functionality is improved, but silicon area and power consumption increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a programmable interconnect matrix that allows a single chip to perform multiple functions by dynamically reconfiguring connections between functional elements. Instead of adding separate dedicated hardware for each peripheral function, the system uses a universal interconnect structure that can be programmed to create different functional configurations, thereby achieving multi-functionality without proportionally increasing silicon area
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs dynamic reconfiguration capability where the interconnect matrix can change its connectivity pattern in real-time based on operational requirements. This allows the same physical hardware to adapt to different functional needs, eliminating the need for static dedicated circuits for each peripheral and reducing overall silicon area while maintaining versatility
2Adaptability or versatility
If additional peripheral units are implemented in complex electronic systems, then functionality is improved, but power consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
By using a programmable interconnect matrix to provide multiple functions through software configuration rather than dedicated hardware, the system activates only the functional elements needed for current operations. This eliminates power consumption associated with idle peripheral circuits, reducing overall power usage while maintaining the capability to implement additional functionality when required
3Adaptability or versatility
If additional peripheral units are implemented in complex electronic systems, then functionality is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the system into functional elements and a programmable interconnect matrix, separating the core processing functions from the connectivity logic. This segmentation allows the complex interconnection patterns to be managed independently through programming rather than hardwired logic, reducing the perceived device complexity while enabling enhanced functionality
Solution Approach 2:
The programmable interconnect matrix acts as an intermediary layer between functional elements, mediating connections and allowing complex functionality to be achieved through configuration rather than complex hardware design. This intermediary structure simplifies the overall device architecture by providing a standardized interface for connecting functional blocks
Data Source
AI summary
In an example embodiment, a digital block comprises a datapath circuit, one or more programmable logic devices (PLDs), and one or more control registers. The datapath circuit comprises structural arithmetic elements. The one or more PLDs comprise uncommitted programmable logic. The one or more control circuits comprise a control register configured to store user-defined control bits, where the one or more control circuits are configured to control both the structural arithmetic elements and the uncommitted programmable logic based on the user-defined control bits.