Address Counter Circuit With Configurable Reset and Clock Synchronization
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional high-speed counters are limited in their ability to input random data values and control clock signals, leading to operational errors due to fixed reset states and potential synchronization issues, especially when constructing larger counting circuits.
Innovation Solution
A counting circuit design that includes multiple flip-flops and logic operation units, allowing for arbitrary initial value setting and synchronized clock signal control, using OR and AND gates to generate counting and control signals, and multiplexers to manage address signals, enabling flexible operation and error prevention.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If conventional high-speed counters use fixed reset states, then the counter structure is simple, but the ability to input random data values is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by making the reset state configurable rather than fixed. The counter can be set to different initial values through control signals, allowing it to adapt between fixed reset mode and random data input mode. This dynamic configuration capability resolves the contradiction by enabling versatility without permanently increasing structural complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the parameter of the reset state from a fixed value to a configurable value. By allowing the reset state to be set to different values (including random data values) through control signals, the counter gains adaptability while maintaining a relatively simple structure. This parameter change approach directly addresses the technical contradiction.
2Productivity
If multiple high-speed counters are coupled to construct larger counting circuits, then the counting capability is improved, but synchronization issues and operational errors increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements feedback mechanisms through control signals that monitor the state of coupled counters and adjust their operation accordingly. The control signals ensure that each counter in the coupled configuration operates in synchronization, preventing operational errors while maintaining enhanced counting capability. This feedback approach resolves the contradiction between productivity and reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a universal counter design that can function both as a standalone high-speed counter and as part of a coupled counting circuit. The same counter structure with configurable reset states and control signal interfaces can be universally applied in different configurations, ensuring consistent synchronization behavior whether used individually or in multi-counter arrangements. This universality resolves the synchronization issues while maintaining counting capability.
3Ease of operation
If the counter always starts from fixed value 0, then the reset control is simple, but the flexibility to use randomly input values is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The patent enables the counter to serve itself by automatically configuring its reset state based on control signals. The counter can operate in self-service mode with fixed reset for simple applications, or accept externally provided random data values when needed. This self-service capability maintains ease of operation while gaining adaptability, as the counter adapts its behavior without requiring complex external control logic.
Data Source
AI summary
A counting circuit includes first to fifth flip-flops (FFs) and a logic operation unit. Each of the first to fourth FFs has an initial value based on a preset control signal input through a 4-bit set terminal. Each of the first to fourth FFs receives a signal at a corresponding input terminal. And each of the first to fourth FFs outputs a signal at a corresponding output terminal according to a clock signal. The fifth FF is coupled to the output terminal of the fourth FF and is configured to output the output signal of the fourth FF synchronously with the clock signal. The logic operation unit logically combines the output signals of the second to fourth FFs and outputs first and second counting signals.