Clock Distribution Circuit for Detecting Clock Signal Abnormalities
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional techniques fail to detect errors caused by abnormalities in clock signals, which can lead to system failures in processing devices with multiplexed operation units.
Innovation Solution
A processing device is configured with operation circuits, a distribution circuit that branches clock signals, and a detection circuit that compares outputs to identify errors, utilizing conversion circuits like phase locked loops (PLLs) to convert clock signals and detect abnormalities.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Extent of automation
If conventional clock signal comparison techniques are used, then clock signal selection is automated, but error detection capability is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The system segments the clock signal path by introducing conversion circuits that process clock signals through different transformation paths. Each path converts the clock signal differently (e.g., phase shifts, frequency divisions), creating distinct signal characteristics that enable error detection when comparing outputs from multiple operation circuits.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention changes parameters of the clock signal by using conversion circuits to modify phase, frequency, or timing characteristics. These parameter changes create detectable differences in operation circuit outputs when clock signal abnormalities occur, enabling error detection while maintaining automated operation.
2Reliability
If conversion circuits are added to detect clock abnormalities, then error detection capability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The conversion circuits are designed to serve multiple functions: they transform clock signals for normal operation while simultaneously enabling error detection capabilities. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate dedicated error detection circuits, thereby limiting the increase in device complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The conversion circuits act as intermediaries between the clock generation circuit and operation circuits. By placing these conversion circuits in the signal path, the system enables error detection without requiring direct modification of the operation circuits themselves, thus containing the complexity increase to specific intermediary components.
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 device effectively detects errors caused by clock signal abnormalities with a simple circuit configuration, reducing manufacturing costs and failure probabilities.
Implementation Method 1
utilizing conversion circuits like phase locked loops (PLLs) to convert clock signals and detect abnormalities
Data Source
AI summary
A processing device comprises: operation circuits that operate based on a clock signal supplied from a clock generation circuit; a distribution circuit that branches the clock signal and outputs branched clock signals to the operation circuits; and a detection circuit that compares outputs of the operation circuits and detects an error. At least one of the operation circuits is coupled to the distribution circuit via at least one conversion circuit that converts the clock signal into a clock signal capable of detecting an abnormality in the clock signal when an abnormality occurs in the clock signal.