Reconfigurable Logic Blocks Using Nonvolatile Mode Storage
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing logic devices lack efficient configuration and reconfiguration capabilities to perform multiple functions, leading to limitations in flexibility and operational speed.
Innovation Solution
A logic device with a configuration block utilizing nonvolatile storage devices to store and manage configuration data, allowing for rapid switching between operation modes, and a controller to manage the configuration process, enabling efficient reconfiguration during runtime.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If logic devices use traditional configuration methods, then they can perform multiple functions, but the configuration and reconfiguration process is slow and consumes excessive time
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by pre-loading configuration data into nonvolatile storage devices before runtime reconfiguration is needed. The configuration data is prepared and stored in advance in the nonvolatile storage devices, allowing the logic device to quickly switch between functions without performing time-consuming configuration operations at the moment of switching. This resolves the contradiction by maintaining multi-function capability while dramatically reducing the time required for reconfiguration.
2Adaptability or versatility
If logic devices are reconfigured during runtime, then operational flexibility improves, but power consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the configuration data storage function from traditional volatile memory and places it in nonvolatile storage devices. This separation allows the logic device to maintain runtime reconfiguration capability while consuming less power, because nonvolatile storage devices retain configuration data without continuous power supply. The configuration data is taken out from the active configuration pathway and stored independently, enabling quick loading without sustained high power consumption.
3Speed
If logic devices use nonvolatile storage devices for configuration data, then reconfiguration speed improves, but hardware complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies universality by designing nonvolatile storage devices that serve multiple functions: storing configuration data, maintaining data persistence without power, and enabling rapid reconfiguration. This multi-functional approach improves reconfiguration speed while minimizing hardware complexity, as the same nonvolatile storage infrastructure supports multiple operational requirements rather than requiring separate dedicated components for each function.
4Duration of action of stationary object
If configuration data is stored in nonvolatile memory, then data retention without power improves, but access speed during operation decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the storage system into nonvolatile storage devices for persistent configuration data and maintains active configuration pathways for rapid access. The configuration data is divided between long-term storage in nonvolatile memory and active availability through the configuration block's internal buffers. This segmentation allows data to be retained without power in nonvolatile storage while providing fast access paths when configuration changes are needed, resolving the contradiction between retention duration and access speed.
Data Source
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AI summary
A logic device includes: a function block and a configuration block. The function block is configurable to perform operations associated with a plurality of operation modes. The configuration block is configured to configure the function block to perform an operation associated with any one of the plurality of operation modes. The logic device also includes a controller configured to control the configuration block so that the function block is configured to perform the operation.