Data processing apparatus for segmental processing of input data, systems using the apparatus and methods for data transmittal

摘要

There is provided a data processing apparatus for segmental processing of input data. The apparatus includes a plurality of data processors connected in a series configuration, the plurality of data processors being able to transmit discrete data packets over a video bus to one another, with the plurality of data processors being divided into a plurality of data processing sets; and a central controller coupled to the plurality of data processors for controlling allocation of the input data to the plurality of data processing sets, the central controller being also for controlling transmission of output data from the apparatus. The apparatus incorporates several varying methods for data transmittal amongst data processors and has several applications which will be described.

主权项

1. A data processing apparatus for segmental processing of input data, the apparatus including:
a plurality of data processing sets, each of the plurality of data processing sets comprising a plurality of data processors, a data processor from a data processing set being coupled in a series to a corresponding data processor from another data processing set in a manner such that discrete data packets are passed from a data processor from a data processing set to a corresponding data processor in another data processing set; and a central controller configurable to control allocation of the input data to the plurality of data processing sets so as to determine which segment of the input data is to be processed by which data processing set of the plurality of data processing sets, the central controller being also for controlling transmission of output data from the apparatus; wherein each of the plurality of data processing sets is for processing at least one segment of the input data and wherein each of the plurality of data processing sets includes a set controller which is designated by the central controller, the set controller being one of the plurality of data processors in the data processing set, the set controller being designated for either a permanent or temporary basis and being configured to receive instructions from the central controller for controlling the data processing set which the set controller is part of.