A generic MP-SoC design methodology for the fast prototyping of embedded image processing

This article proposes an original methodology for the fast prototyping of image processing on a generic MP-SoC (Multi-Processors System on Chip) architecture. To define a processors network adapted to a particular application is critical and design-time consuming in order to achieve high-performance customized solutions. The effectiveness of such approaches largely depends on the availability of an ad hoc design methodology. This paper illustrates a new methodology that enables to instantiate a generic Homogeneous Network of Communicating Processors (called HNCP) tailored for a targeted application. The HNCP is generated with a tool that avoids fastidious manual editing operations for the designer. Specific lightweight communication functions have been developed to fasten the programming of the MP-SoC network. A case study (image texture analyzes) is presented to illustrate the proposed MP-SoC design methodology and enables to focus on architecture exploration, instantiated scheme of parallelization and timing performance.