# How to Split Computer Tasks Between Different Types of Processors

> A system that uses a physical backplane to connect two different types of computer processors—one for general tasks and one for real-time tasks—to improve efficiency.

- **Patent:** US 9477524
- **Original title:** Partitioning processes across clusters by process type to optimize use of cluster specific configurations
- **Owner:** NEODANA Inc
- **Granted:** 2016
- **Status:** Active
- **Times cited:** 11
- **Field:** semiconductors, telecommunications, mechanical

## What it does

This patent describes a hardware setup where two distinct groups of processors live inside the same machine. One group runs a standard multitasking operating system, while the other runs a specialized real-time operating system. When the first group encounters a task that needs real-time precision, it sends that request across a physical hardware backplane to the second group. The second group handles the task using its own dedicated software agents and sends the result back to the first group.

## What it does NOT cover

- Does not cover systems that rely solely on software-based task scheduling without a physical hardware backplane connection.
- Does not cover setups where both processor clusters run the exact same type of operating system.
- Does not cover cloud-based distribution where the clusters are located on different physical servers connected via standard internet protocols.

## The clever bit

The system uses a hardware backplane to bridge two different operating system environments, allowing them to communicate as if they were part of a single, unified machine despite having different instruction sets.

## Real-world examples

1. Industrial automation controllers
2. High-performance embedded computing systems
3. Specialized server hardware for low-latency financial trading

## Why it matters

This approach addresses the challenge of balancing general-purpose computing with the strict timing requirements of real-time applications. By physically isolating these workloads, it prevents general tasks from interfering with time-sensitive operations, which is critical for industrial control systems or high-frequency data processing.

## Frequently asked questions

### What does How to Split Computer Tasks Between Different Types of Processors cover?

A system that uses a physical backplane to connect two different types of computer processors—one for general tasks and one for real-time tasks—to improve efficiency.

### Who owns patent US 9477524?

NEODANA Inc owns this patent, granted in 2016.

### When does this patent expire?

This patent is expected to expire on October 25, 2036, when the invention enters the public domain.

### What is patent US 9477524 cited by?

This patent has been cited by 11 later patents that build on its ideas.

### What problem does this patent solve?

This approach addresses the challenge of balancing general-purpose computing with the strict timing requirements of real-time applications. By physically isolating these workloads, it prevents general tasks from interfering with time-sensitive operations, which is critical for industrial control systems or high-frequency data processing.

### What does this patent NOT cover?

Does not cover systems that rely solely on software-based task scheduling without a physical hardware backplane connection.

**Full plain-English explainer:** https://patentbrief.org/patent/us/9477524/aws-cloudformation

**Original patent:** https://patents.google.com/patent/US9477524

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_Source: PatentBrief — https://patentbrief.org. Patent facts are from public records; the plain-English explanation is PatentBrief's._