Signal Processing Device Parallel Processor Malfunction Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Signal processing devices with multiple processors face challenges in performing determination tasks during normal operation, as existing methods may not efficiently utilize parallel processing for failure detection and image processing in imaging apparatuses.
Innovation Solution
A signal processing device and method that includes multiple first processors, a controller, selection sections, and a comparison section to select and compare signals processed by these processors, allowing for determination during normal operation by generating and comparing signals in parallel.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If multiple processors are used to perform processes in parallel, then productivity is improved, but reliability deteriorates due to difficulty in performing determination tasks during normal operation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a copy of the first signal through the second processor to generate a third signal, which is then compared with the second signal from the first processor. This copying mechanism enables determination during normal operation without interrupting parallel processing, thus maintaining both productivity and reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces selection sections and comparison sections as intermediary components that facilitate the determination process. These intermediaries select appropriate signals and compare them without disrupting the main parallel processing flow, resolving the contradiction between productivity and reliability.
2Reliability
If determination processes are performed during normal operation, then reliability is improved, but device complexity increases due to additional selection and comparison sections
Solution Approach 1:
The second processor serves multiple functions: it processes the first signal to generate the third signal for determination purposes, while also potentially contributing to overall system processing. This multi-functionality reduces the need for dedicated determination-only components, thereby limiting the increase in device complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges the determination function into the existing parallel processing architecture by having the second processor work alongside the first processor. The selection sections and comparison sections are integrated into the signal flow rather than being separate add-on components, which minimizes the increase in device complexity.
Data Source
AI summary
In one example, a signal processing device includes first processors, a controller, a first selection section, a second processor, a second selection section, and a first comparison section. The first processors are associated with first signals. The first processors perform a predetermined process on the basis of an associated first signal to generate a second signal. The controller generates a selection control signal. The first selection section selects the first signal to be supplied to a selected first processor on the basis of the selection control signal. The second processor performs the predetermined process on the basis of the selected first signal to generate a third signal. The second selection section selects the second signal generated by the selected first processor. The first comparison section compares the third signal and the second signal selected by the second selection section of the second signals with each other.