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 operation modes, limiting their flexibility and functionality in applications such as digital filters and video codecs.
Innovation Solution
Incorporating a function block and a configuration block with nonvolatile storage devices, controlled by a controller, allowing the logic device to be configured and reconfigured to perform various operation modes, including filter functions and arithmetic operations, using configurable data stored in nonvolatile memory.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If logic devices use traditional configuration methods, then device simplicity is maintained, but configuration efficiency and reconfiguration capability are insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by pre-storing configuration data for multiple operation modes in nonvolatile memory before the logic device needs to be reconfigured. The configuration block loads and prepares the appropriate configuration data in advance, enabling rapid switching between operation modes without time-consuming reconfiguration processes. This resolves the contradiction by improving configuration efficiency while maintaining acceptable device structure through systematic data preparation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements dynamics by making the logic device's configuration state changeable and adaptable. The configuration block can dynamically load different configuration data from nonvolatile memory to switch between operation modes, and the controller can manage these transitions. This dynamic reconfiguration capability improves productivity by enabling flexible adaptation to different operational requirements while the structured approach keeps device complexity manageable.
2Adaptability or versatility
If logic devices are designed to perform multiple operation modes, then adaptability is improved, but hardware resources increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies universality by designing a single logic device that can perform multiple operation modes through software-based reconfiguration rather than requiring separate hardware for each function. The configuration block loads different configuration data to enable the same physical hardware to universally handle various operations (e.g., different filter types, video processing modes). This resolves the contradiction by achieving high adaptability while minimizing hardware resource consumption through multi-functional design.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements parameter changes by modifying the operational parameters of the logic device through configuration data stored in nonvolatile memory. Instead of changing physical hardware, the system changes operational parameters (connection patterns, function block configurations) to achieve different operation modes. This approach improves adaptability while keeping hardware resources constant, as the same hardware is reconfigured through parameter modifications rather than physical additions.
3Reliability
If logic devices use volatile memory for configuration, then power consumption is reduced, but reconfiguration capability and data retention are insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by pre-storing configuration data in nonvolatile memory, which retains data without power. When the logic device needs to be configured or reconfigured, the configuration block loads the required data from nonvolatile memory in advance. This ensures reliable configuration retention while minimizing power consumption, as the nonvolatile memory does not require continuous power to maintain configuration state, and power is only consumed during active loading and operation.
Data Source
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.