Programmable Parallel Decoding for Multi-Standard Error-Correction Codes
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current communication systems face challenges in supporting multiple communication standards due to the need for reconfigurable or programmable decoders that can efficiently decode various error correction codes, such as convolutional and turbo codes, while also performing symbol processing functions like interleaving and de-interleaving.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of programmable parallel decoders that can be reconfigured to support multiple communication standards, utilizing a communication network for interleaving and employing thread processors to parallelize decoding tasks, allowing for simultaneous decoding of multiple code types and standards.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If dedicated decoders are used for each communication standard, then decoding reliability is improved, but device complexity and adaptability deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a universal decoder architecture that can decode multiple communication standards (WiMAX, LTE, UMB, WCDMA) through a single reconfigurable device. The decoder uses programmable logic and configurable parameters to adapt its decoding algorithm and structure according to the detected code type, eliminating the need for multiple dedicated decoders while maintaining decoding reliability across all standards.
Solution Approach 2:
The decoder employs dynamic reconfiguration capabilities where its internal structure, decoding parameters, and processing logic can be changed in real-time based on the detected communication standard. The system dynamically adjusts its behavior by loading appropriate configuration data and parameters corresponding to different code types, enabling a single device to perform multiple decoding functions with reliability comparable to dedicated decoders.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple dedicated decoders are implemented, then support for multiple communication standards is improved, but device complexity and resource usage worsen
Solution Approach 1:
The patent consolidates multiple dedicated decoder functions into a single universal decoder that can be reconfigured to handle different communication standards. This approach reduces device complexity by eliminating redundant hardware structures while maintaining support for WiMAX, LTE, UMB, and WCDMA standards through software-based reconfiguration and parameter adjustment.
Solution Approach 2:
The decoder utilizes parameter changes to adapt its behavior for different communication standards. By modifying decoding parameters, algorithm configurations, and processing characteristics based on the detected code type, the system achieves multi-standard support without requiring complex hardware changes, thereby reducing overall device complexity.
3Device complexity
If sequential decoding is used, then decoder complexity is reduced, but processing speed and productivity deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the decoding process into multiple parallel segments or threads that can operate simultaneously. The universal decoder implements parallel processing capabilities where different code blocks or processing stages can be decoded concurrently, significantly improving decoding speed while maintaining manageable complexity through modular architecture and systematic division of processing tasks.
Solution Approach 2:
The system transitions from sequential single-threaded decoding to parallel multi-threaded decoding, adding a temporal dimension to the processing. By utilizing multiple processing threads and parallel execution paths, the decoder achieves higher productivity without proportionally increasing structural complexity, as the parallelism is managed through software coordination.
4Adaptability or versatility
If reconfigurable decoders are implemented, then adaptability is improved, but device complexity and resource requirements worsen
Solution Approach 1:
The patent achieves reconfigurability primarily through parameter changes rather than structural modifications. The universal decoder uses configurable parameters, lookup tables, and software-controlled settings to adapt to different communication standards, minimizing hardware complexity while maximizing adaptability. The reconfiguration involves loading different parameter sets and control logic rather than physically restructuring the decoder.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses copying of configuration data and parameter sets from storage to implement reconfiguration. Instead of designing complex reconfiguration mechanisms, the patent copies appropriate decoder parameters, algorithms, and control logic from memory based on the detected communication standard, simplifying the reconfiguration process while maintaining high adaptability across multiple standards.
Data Source
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AI summary
Methods and apparatus are provided for programmable decoding of a plurality of code types. A method is provided for decoding data encoded using one of a plurality of code types, where each of the code types correspond to a communication standard. The code type associated with the data is identified and the data is allocated to a plurality of programmable parallel decoders. The programmable parallel decoders can be reconfigured to decode data encoded using each of the plurality of code types. A method is also provided for interleaving data among M parallel decoders using a communications network. An interleaver table is employed, wherein each entry in the interleaver table identifies one of the M parallel decoders as a target decoder and a target address of a communications network for interleaved data. Data is interleaved by writing the data to the target address of the communications network. The communications network can comprise, for example, a cross-bar switch and/or one or more first- in-first-out buffers.