Symmetric Multi-IC Modules via Hierarchical Port Reconfiguration
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Solution Overview
Problem
Creating a symmetric multi-IC phased array module with dual-axis symmetry is challenging due to physical ICs being unable to be flipped, requiring digital reconfiguration to achieve symmetry in both X and Y axes, which is difficult to implement with existing technologies.
Innovation Solution
A method involving hierarchical digital reconfiguration of ICs, where ports are reassigned to create mirror personalities and symmetrical interconnect routing, using digital reassigners and multiplexers to achieve symmetry, allowing for the creation of symmetric multi-IC modules with dual-axis symmetry.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Shape
If physical ICs are used without digital reconfiguration, then the device structure is simple, but dual-axis symmetry cannot be achieved
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic reconfiguration of IC ports through digital control signals, allowing the same physical IC to assume different logical configurations. Digital reassigners dynamically map physical ports to logical ports based on control signals, enabling the system to achieve dual-axis symmetry by virtually repositioning ports without physical movement or flipping of ICs.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates virtual mirror images of IC personalities through digital reconfiguration. By using digital reassigners to map ports symmetrically across both X and Y axes, the system generates virtual copies of the IC's port structure that reflect the desired dual-axis symmetry, even though the physical IC remains unchanged.
2Shape
If ICs are physically flipped to achieve symmetry, then symmetry is achieved, but physical ICs cannot be flipped
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical approach of physically flipping ICs with a digital reconfiguration system. Instead of mechanically rotating or flipping the physical IC chip, digital reassigners use control signals to remap port connections, achieving the same symmetry effect through logical reconfiguration rather than physical manipulation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the logical parameters of port assignments rather than physical parameters of IC orientation. By modifying digital control signals and port mapping relationships, the system achieves symmetry in the logical connection structure without altering the physical state or orientation of the IC chips.
3Shape
If digital reassigners are added to achieve symmetry, then dual-axis symmetry is achieved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent designs digital reassigners with multi-functional capabilities that perform multiple tasks: port mapping, symmetry enforcement, and configuration control. These universal components can handle various reconfiguration scenarios (X-axis symmetry, Y-axis symmetry, or both) using the same hardware structure, reducing the need for separate dedicated components for each symmetry type.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements a hierarchical reconfiguration approach where digital reassigners provide more symmetry capability than any single axis requires. The system can achieve X-axis symmetry, Y-axis symmetry, or dual-axis symmetry using the same infrastructure, allowing partial deployment for simpler applications while maintaining the capability for full dual-axis symmetry when needed.
Data Source
AI summary
A circuit comprises a set of ports of a first type arranged symmetrically about an axis of symmetry of the circuit, and a digital reassigner configured to reassign an original port of the set of ports to a reassigned port of the set of ports located on an opposite side of the axis of symmetry.