Ring Bus Switch for Dynamic Data Path Reconfiguration
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Solution Overview
Problem
In a digital multi-function printer with a ring bus system, it is challenging to easily change the device configuration due to the fixed position of the function extension module on the ring bus, limiting flexibility and efficiency in data transfer.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of a first and second controller unit with a ring bus interface and a switch capable of switching the output destination of data, allowing for flexible connection control and efficient bandwidth allocation among image processing units.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a ring bus interface is provided to add a new image processing function, then the function can be extended, but the position of the function extension module on the ring bus becomes fixed
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a switch module that can dynamically change the connection order of modules on the ring bus. This allows the system to adapt to different configurations by switching between different connection sequences, resolving the contradiction between fixed position requirements for function extension and the need for configuration flexibility. The switch module enables the ring bus to transition from a static to a dynamic topology.
2Productivity
If image processing units are arranged on the ring bus to optimize bandwidth allocation, then data transfer efficiency is improved, but the device configuration becomes difficult to change
Solution Approach 1:
The switch module enables dynamic reconfiguration of the ring bus connection order, allowing the system to optimize bandwidth allocation for different operational scenarios while maintaining the ability to change configurations. This resolves the contradiction by making the optimized configuration adaptable rather than fixed.
Solution Approach 2:
The system segments the ring bus into controllable sections through the switch module, allowing independent optimization of different data transfer paths. This enables the configuration to be adjusted for specific functional requirements while maintaining overall system performance.
3Loss of energy
If the ring bus connection order is optimized for specific functions, then bandwidth utilization is improved, but the system loses flexibility in adapting to different operational modes
Solution Approach 1:
The switch module provides dynamic control over the ring bus connection order, allowing the system to switch between different optimized configurations based on operational requirements. This ensures high bandwidth utilization efficiency while maintaining adaptability to different operational modes.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the connection order parameter of the ring bus dynamically through the switch module, allowing optimization for different operational modes without sacrificing adaptability. This resolves the contradiction by making the optimization parameter adjustable rather than fixed.
Data Source
AI summary
Even in the case where a ring bus interface that is connected to an internal ring bus of an LSI is provided as an interface of the LSI in order to add a new image processing function, the position of a function extension module on the ring bus is fixed. An information processing apparatus including: a first controller unit having a plurality of modules and a ring bus that connects the plurality of modules in the form of a ring; and a second controller unit having a plurality of modules and a ring bus that connects the plurality of modules in the form of a ring, and the first controller unit having an interface that transmits data to the ring bus within the second controller unit and a switch capable of switching an output destination of data output from at least one of the plurality of modules of the first controller unit to the interface.