Reconfigurable Logic with On-Chip Nonvolatile Configuration Memory
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing reconfigurable logic devices require external memory for real-time reconfiguration, which limits their speed and increases the size and manufacturing costs of electronic circuit modules.
Innovation Solution
Incorporating reconfigurable non-volatile memory devices within the logic device to store and manage configuration information, allowing for real-time reconfiguration without the need for external memory, by using a combination of functional blocks and interconnection units that select and perform operations based on configuration information.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If external memory is used for real-time reconfiguration, then reconfiguration capability is achieved, but reconfiguration speed is limited and device size increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the configuration memory into the logic device itself, combining the functional blocks and non-volatile memory devices into a single integrated device. This eliminates the need for external memory and enables faster reconfiguration since the configuration information is stored internally and can be accessed immediately without external communication overhead.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent extracts the configuration memory from the external environment and places it inside the logic device. By taking out the external memory dependency and incorporating non-volatile memory devices within the device structure, the system achieves faster reconfiguration speeds while maintaining adaptability.
2Adaptability or versatility
If external memory is used for real-time reconfiguration, then reconfiguration capability is achieved, but device size and manufacturing cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the configuration memory into the logic device itself, combining the functional blocks and non-volatile memory devices into a single integrated device. This eliminates the need for external memory and enables faster reconfiguration since the configuration information is stored internally and can be accessed immediately without external communication overhead.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple functional blocks are integrated, then functionality is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements multi-functionality by designing functional blocks that can perform different operations based on configuration information. Each functional block is equipped with multiple non-volatile memory devices that store different operation information, allowing the same hardware structure to execute multiple different functions by simply changing the configuration, thereby reducing overall device complexity while maintaining high adaptability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces dynamic reconfigurability where the device structure and functionality can be changed in real-time based on configuration information. The functional blocks can dynamically switch between different operations and the interconnection units can dynamically reconfigure signal routing paths, allowing the device to adapt its structure and behavior to different operational requirements without physical reconfiguration.
Data Source
AI summary
According to example embodiments, a logic device includes a first functional block configured to perform a first operation according to first operation information and a second operation according to second operation information, and a second functional block configured to perform a third operation according to the first operation information and a fourth operation according to the second operation information. The first functional block is configured to receive configuration information, to select one of the first operation information and the second operation information based on the configuration information, and to perform the first or second operation based on the selected first or second operation information. The second functional block is configured to receive the configuration information, to select one of the first operation information and the second operation information based on the configuration information, and to perform the third or fourth operation based on the selected first or second operation information.