CeRAM Latching Circuits That Eliminate Retention Power
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional data storage circuits, such as latches and flip-flops, are volatile and require redundant circuitry and additional power supplies to retain data when power is disconnected, leading to increased space and power consumption.
Innovation Solution
A latching circuitry utilizing a Correlated Electron Switch (CES) element, which is non-volatile and can store data without external power, by transitioning between conductive and insulative states based on applied voltage and current, allowing for data retention even when power is off.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional volatile latches and flip-flops are used for data storage, then data can be stored temporarily during power operation, but additional redundant circuitry and separate power supplies are required to retain data when power is switched off, increasing device complexity and power consumption
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the volatile latch circuit and non-volatile memory function into a single integrated structure. The latch circuit directly interfaces with the non-volatile memory cell, eliminating the need for separate retention circuits and reducing overall device complexity while maintaining data retention capability across power cycles
Solution Approach 2:
The latch circuit is designed to serve dual functions: operating as a standard volatile latch during powered operation and automatically transferring data to non-volatile storage when power is removed. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for dedicated retention circuitry while preserving data integrity
2Reliability
If conventional volatile latches and flip-flops are used for data storage, then data can be stored temporarily during power operation, but an additional separate power supply is required to retain data when power is switched off, increasing power consumption
Solution Approach 1:
The system operates in periodic cycles: during powered operation, data is maintained in the latch circuit for rapid access; when power is removed, data is automatically transferred to non-volatile storage. This periodic operation between volatile and non-volatile states enables data retention without requiring continuous power to retention circuits
Solution Approach 2:
The patent extracts the data retention function from the powered operational domain to the non-volatile memory domain. By transferring data to non-volatile storage when power is removed, the system eliminates the need for separate powered retention circuits, thereby reducing overall power consumption while maintaining data integrity
3Reliability
If conventional volatile latches and flip-flops are used for data storage, then data can be stored temporarily during power operation, but redundant circuitry is required which increases space in the integrated circuit
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the latch circuit and non-volatile memory cell into an integrated structure where the same physical components serve both volatile operation during powered states and non-volatile storage when powered down. This consolidation eliminates redundant retention circuitry and reduces the overall area required in the integrated circuit
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The CES element enables data storage without the need for redundant circuitry or additional power supplies, reducing space and power consumption while maintaining data integrity across power cycles.
Implementation Method 1
The impedance state of the correlated electron material may be switched between states by applying a voltage and current across the correlated electron material
Data Source
AI summary
According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, a device comprises a latching circuitry, where the latching circuitry comprises at least one correlated electron random access memory (CeRAM) element. The latching circuitry further comprises a control circuit coupled to the at least one CeRAM element. The control circuit is configured to receive at least one control signal. Based on the at least one control signal, perform at least one of storing data into the latching circuitry and outputting data from the latching circuitry.