Reconfigurable Trace Data Compression for Fast Program Changes
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing trace data compression methods require a significant test operation period to analyze and adapt to changes in program operation trends, leading to inefficiencies in compressing trace data when program changes occur frequently, especially in multi-controller scenarios.
Innovation Solution
A system that includes a reconfigurable compression circuit using a programmable logic device (PLD) like an FPGA, which performs simulation and analysis to dynamically select an appropriate compression method based on trace data trends, allowing for real-time adaptation and efficient compression of trace data.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If trace information is analyzed in real time during the test operation period, then the compression method can adapt to trace data trends, but a considerable amount of time is required to cope with program changes
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs simulation of the monitoring target circuit before actual operation to analyze trace information trends in advance. This preliminary analysis allows the system to determine an appropriate compression method before real operation begins, eliminating the time delay associated with real-time analysis during actual program execution.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a simulation model that copies the functionality of the monitoring target circuit. By analyzing trace information in the simulation environment rather than during actual operation, the system can determine compression methods without interfering with or delaying real program execution.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple compression circuits are used to handle different trace data trends, then compression effectiveness is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses a reconfigurable compression circuit that can dynamically change its compression method based on the analyzed trace data trends. Rather than having multiple fixed compression circuits, the system employs a single circuit that can be reconfigured to match different data patterns, reducing hardware complexity while maintaining adaptability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the operational parameters of the compression circuit based on simulation results. By adjusting compression parameters and methods according to pre-analyzed trace information characteristics, the system achieves effective compression for different data trends without requiring multiple physical circuits.
Data Source
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AI summary
A compression circuit compresses the trace data by a compression method selected from multiple compression methods. A compression circuit optimization section operates a program to be operated in the MCU, and generates the result of execution of the program and the result of trace data simulation. The compression circuit optimization section analyzes the result of execution of the program and analyzes the result of trace data simulation. The compression circuit optimization section determines the compression method of the compression circuit in accordance with the result of analysis of the result of execution of the program and with the result of trace data simulation. Further, the compression circuit optimization section generates compression circuit data for operating the compression circuit as a circuit that compresses the trace data by the determined compression method.