RXW Code Sequence Optimization for Programmable Chip Memory Access
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for optimizing programmable chip design from high-level language code are limited, particularly in efficiently handling memory access operations, leading to inefficiencies such as non-sequential memory accesses and difficulties in determining pointer overlap, which hinder the implementation of bulk memory operations.
Innovation Solution
The conversion of high-level language code sequences into separate read, transform, and write processes with buffer-based flow control allows for arbitrary sequential reads and writes, enabling more efficient bulk memory operations by separating memory access operations into distinct processes that can be optimized for specific memory types.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If high-level language code is converted to HDL using conventional synthesis tools, then the design can be implemented on programmable chips, but memory access operations become inefficient due to non-sequential access patterns
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments memory access operations into separate read and write processes, allowing independent optimization of each access pattern. This segmentation enables sequential access patterns in generated HDL code while maintaining the high-level language abstraction, directly improving memory access efficiency without requiring complete redesign of the synthesis toolchain.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent performs preliminary analysis of memory access patterns during the compilation stage, identifying sequential access opportunities before HDL generation. This preliminary action allows the compiler to restructure memory operations in advance, transforming inefficient non-sequential accesses into optimized sequential patterns in the generated code.
2Productivity
If separate read and write processes are implemented, then bulk memory operations can be performed efficiently, but the device complexity increases due to additional process circuitry
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the read and write processes into a unified transformation framework that operates on the high-level language code. Rather than implementing completely separate hardware processes, the compiler generates optimized HDL code that combines memory operations where possible, reducing hardware complexity while maintaining the performance benefits of separate process handling.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a universal transformation process that handles both read and write operations through a single code generation framework. This multi-functional approach allows the same compilation infrastructure to optimize various memory access patterns (sequential, interleaved, burst) without requiring separate specialized circuitry for each operation type.
3Adaptability or versatility
If buffer-based flow control is used between processes, then arbitrary sequential reads and writes can occur, but the difficulty of detecting and measuring pointer overlap increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements feedback mechanisms in the form of compiler analysis that tracks pointer relationships and buffer states throughout the transformation process. This feedback allows the compilation system to detect pointer overlaps and adjust the generated HDL code accordingly, ensuring correct handling of concurrent read/write operations while maintaining flexibility in access patterns.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces buffer management as an intermediary layer between the high-level language code and the underlying memory hardware. This intermediary handles the complexity of pointer overlap detection and resolution, providing a simplified interface to the programmer while managing the detailed synchronization and flow control requirements through automated compiler logic.
Data Source
AI summary
Methods and apparatus are provided for implementing a programmable chip using a high-level language. Code sequences such as high-level language software critical loops are converted into read/transform/write (RXW) processes with buffer based flow control between the processes. Having separate read and write processes allows an arbitrary number of sequential reads/writes to occur in any order, subject to buffer size, allowing bursting/sequential transactions that are more efficient than random accesses.