Reconfigurable FPGA Image Processing for Faster Print Jobs

Resolve Bottlenecks,
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions

Solution Overview

Problem

Existing image processing apparatuses face challenges in optimizing processing performance based on job options due to limitations in circuit reconfiguration and parallel processing of multiple functions.

Innovation Solution

An image processing apparatus with a reconfigurable FPGA that includes static and partial reconfiguration regions, allowing dynamic reconfiguration of processing circuits to support multiple functions, thereby improving processing performance by selectively arranging processing circuits in static and partial reconfiguration regions.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If circuit reconfiguration is performed dynamically to support multiple processing functions, then adaptability is improved, but processing speed may be reduced due to reconfiguration overhead

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveprocessing function adaptabilityVSAvoidprocessing speed

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSSpeed

Solution Approach 1:

The processing circuit is divided into multiple independent reconfiguration regions, each capable of being configured for different processing functions. This segmentation allows selective reconfiguration of only the necessary regions while maintaining other regions in their current state, thereby reducing reconfiguration overhead and preserving processing speed while still providing adaptability.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

Multiple circuit configuration information sets are prepared in advance for different processing functions. When a function change is required, the pre-prepared configuration information is quickly loaded and applied, minimizing the reconfiguration time and reducing the impact on processing speed while maintaining high adaptability.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #10Preliminary action

2Device complexity

If multiple processing functions are implemented in a single processing circuit, then device complexity is reduced, but processing performance may deteriorate due to function switching overhead

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvecircuit structure complexityVSAvoidprocessing performance

Core Design Contradiction:

Device complexityVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The processing circuit is segmented into multiple reconfiguration regions that can be independently configured. Each region can be optimized for a specific processing function, allowing multiple functions to coexist without significant performance degradation. The segmentation enables parallel operation of different functions in different regions, maintaining high processing performance while reducing overall device complexity.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The processing circuit incorporates dynamic reconfiguration capability that allows the circuit structure to change based on the required processing function. This dynamic nature enables the circuit to be optimized for the current task while maintaining the ability to switch to other functions, thereby preserving processing performance while implementing multiple functions in a single circuit.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

3Adaptability or versatility

If partial reconfiguration regions are used to support selective processing functions, then adaptability is improved, but circuit configuration complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveprocessing function selectivityVSAvoidcircuit configuration complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The circuit is divided into standardized reconfiguration regions with defined interfaces and configuration protocols. This segmentation, combined with a systematic configuration management approach, allows selective configuration of regions while maintaining overall system simplicity. The modular structure enables adaptability without proportionally increasing configuration complexity.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The reconfiguration regions are designed with universal configuration interfaces and standardized structures that can support multiple processing functions. This universality reduces the overall configuration complexity by using a common framework for all regions, while still enabling selective configuration for different functions, thereby improving adaptability without linearly increasing complexity.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Data Source

PatentUS20250306817A1Image processing apparatus, image processing method, and non-transitory computer readable medium

Publication Date: 2025.10.02 FUJIFILM BUSINESS INNOVATION CORP

AI summary

An image processing apparatus includes a processor that performs an image process configured by a circuit reconfiguration device whose circuit configuration is reconfigurable, the processor being configured to: acquire circuit configuration information on a processing circuit that executes a predetermined processing function; and arrange a processing circuit that executes a processing function required for a print job in a static region and reconfigure plural partial reconfiguration regions into plural split circuits that execute plural processing functions that are selectively available for the print job.