Time-Multiplexed Analog Signal Distribution Controller
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Solution Overview
Problem
Integrated circuit devices face challenges in efficiently generating and distributing analog signals, leading to increased area and power consumption due to the need for multiple analog reference voltages.
Innovation Solution
An analog signal distribution system that includes an analog signal controller generating and transmitting control signals, such as tokens, to restrict access to the analog signal, allowing multiple devices to share the signal without interference or distortion, using a token-ring protocol, peer-to-peer communications, or timing signals.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If multiple analog reference voltages are provided for ADCs, then conversion accuracy is maintained, but SoC area and power consumption increase
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple analog reference voltage generators are merged into a single shared resource. The patent implements a time-multiplexed architecture where one analog reference voltage generator serves multiple ADCs sequentially, combining what would traditionally be separate dedicated generators into a single shared component, thereby reducing SoC area while maintaining conversion accuracy through controlled access mechanisms
Solution Approach 2:
The analog reference voltage is provided to different ADCs in periodic time slots rather than continuously to all ADCs simultaneously. The system uses periodic time-multiplexing where the reference voltage generator alternates between serving different ADCs in a cyclic manner, ensuring each ADC receives the reference voltage it needs for accurate conversion while the generator itself operates periodically rather than requiring multiple parallel instances
2Measurement precision
If multiple analog reference voltages are provided for ADCs, then conversion accuracy is maintained, but power consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple power-consuming analog reference voltage generators are merged into a single shared generator that serves multiple ADCs. By consolidating what would be multiple separate power-hungry components into one, the system reduces total power consumption while maintaining the functional capability of providing reference voltages to all ADCs through time-multiplexed access
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of having multiple generators operating continuously (high power consumption), the system uses a single generator operating periodically to serve different ADCs in turn. This periodic operation mode significantly reduces average power consumption compared to having multiple generators running simultaneously, while still ensuring each ADC receives accurate reference voltages when needed for conversion
3Area of stationary object
If a single analog signal is shared among multiple devices, then area efficiency is improved, but signal interference and distortion may occur
Solution Approach 1:
The shared analog signal is distributed to multiple devices in periodic time slots rather than being simultaneously available to all devices. The system implements time-multiplexed signal distribution where each device receives the analog signal during its assigned time window, preventing signal interference and distortion that would occur from simultaneous access while maintaining area efficiency through single signal path sharing
Solution Approach 2:
A signal controller acts as an intermediary between the single shared analog signal source and multiple receiving devices. This intermediary component manages the time-multiplexed distribution, controlling when the signal is routed to which device, thereby preventing direct interference between devices while enabling efficient signal sharing across the system
Data Source
AI summary
Method and apparatus for sharing an analog signal for use by a plurality of devices are disclosed. In some implementations, the analog signal may be generated by a controller. The controller also may generate a control signal to determine when other devices use the analog signal. In one implementation, the control signal may be a token that may be transmitted and received by the other devices. If a device possess the token, then the device may use the analog signal. If the device does not possess the token, then the device may not use the analog signal. In another implementation, the controller may transmit a peer-to-peer message to a selected device. When the selected device receives the peer-to-peer message, then the selected device may use the analog signal. In this manner, the controller ensures that only one device at a time may use the analog signal.