Bidirectional ring-based interconnection networks having a cross bar for multiprocessors
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing interconnection networks in multiprocessors face challenges in minimizing message passing overhead due to network topology and routing strategies, leading to inefficiencies in command execution and response times.
Innovation Solution
A bidirectional ring-based interconnection network with clockwise and counterclockwise rings and cross bars is employed, allowing for command execution via unidirectional or bidirectional paths based on command type and network congestion, with cross bars connecting non-adjacent nodes to optimize traffic flow.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If a unidirectional ring network is used for interconnection, then the network topology is simple, but the command execution time is long and network throughput is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The ring network is segmented into multiple paths by introducing crossbar switches at strategic nodes. This allows the network to divide command routing into parallel segments (clockwise and counterclockwise paths), enabling simultaneous message transmission along different routes and reducing overall execution time without fundamentally changing the ring topology structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent adds a dimensional element to the traditional two-dimensional ring network by introducing crossbar connections that create shortcuts across the ring. This transforms the network from a single-loop structure into a multi-path topology, adding routing dimensions that allow commands to bypass congested segments and reach destinations faster.
2Device complexity
If a unidirectional ring network is used, then the network structure is simple, but the network throughput is low
Solution Approach 1:
The network dynamically selects routing paths based on real-time congestion conditions. Ring stations and crossbar switches monitor network load and adaptively route commands through clockwise or counterclockwise paths, or through crossbar shortcuts when beneficial. This dynamic routing increases throughput by preventing bottlenecks from forming in any single path.
Solution Approach 2:
Crossbar switches act as intermediary nodes that facilitate efficient command transmission between non-adjacent ring stations. These intermediaries provide alternative transmission paths that bypass congested ring segments, effectively increasing network throughput by distributing traffic load across multiple routing options.
3Loss of time
If cross bars are added to connect non-adjacent nodes, then command execution time is reduced, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Crossbar switches are designed with multi-functionality, serving both as routing intermediaries for shortcut connections and as regular ring stations for clockwise and counterclockwise message transmission. This universal design reduces the need for additional dedicated components, mitigating the increase in device complexity while maintaining the time-saving benefits of direct crossbar connections.
4Productivity
If bidirectional paths are used for command transmission, then network throughput is enhanced, but routing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The network implements feedback mechanisms where ring stations and crossbar switches monitor traffic load, command types, and network congestion levels in real-time. This feedback information is used to dynamically adjust routing decisions, allowing the system to optimize throughput by selecting the most efficient path (clockwise, counterclockwise, or crossbar) based on current network conditions rather than following fixed complex routing rules.
Data Source
AI summary
Embodiments include processing commands on multiprocessor chip having a plurality of nodes that are interconnected via a clockwise ring network and a counterclockwise ring network. Aspects include receiving, by a first ring station associated with a first node of the plurality of nodes, the command for execution and transmitting, by the first ring station via one or more of the clockwise ring network and the counterclockwise ring network, the command for execution. Aspects also include receiving, by a second ring station associated with a second node of the plurality of nodes, the command for execution, wherein the second ring station is connected to a third ring station associated with a third node of the plurality of nodes via a first cross bar of the one or more cross bars and transmitting, by the second ring station to the third ring station via the first cross bar, the command for execution.