Clock Frequency Control for Aging-Induced Delay Faults
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing signal processing devices in critical applications like automobiles face challenges in preventing malfunctions due to aging deterioration, as current detection methods either require costly duplication or premature component replacement, leading to increased costs and potential safety risks.
Innovation Solution
A signal processing device comprising an oscillation circuit, a protection target circuit, a delay time detection circuit, and a clock control circuit that generates a frequency control signal to decrease the clock signal frequency in response to increasing delay times, thereby preventing malfunctions without the need for duplication or premature replacement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a delay fault detection circuit is provided to detect aging deterioration, then reliability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The delay fault detection circuit is merged with the normal operation circuit by using the same circuit elements (logic gates, wires) for both detection and functional purposes. The test circuit element group reflects the configuration of the protection target circuit, allowing simultaneous detection and operation without adding separate duplicate circuits.
Solution Approach 2:
The circuit elements in the protection target circuit serve dual functions: they perform the normal logical operations required for device functionality and simultaneously exhibit delay characteristics that reveal aging deterioration when monitored by the delay fault detection circuit. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate detection circuits.
2Reliability
If device duplication is implemented to prevent malfunction, then reliability is improved, but cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The delay fault detection circuit continuously monitors aging deterioration in advance before it causes actual malfunction. By detecting delay time changes that indicate aging, the system can take preliminary protective actions (such as adjusting operating parameters or alerting for maintenance) before the device fails, eliminating the need for duplicate standby devices.
3Reliability
If component replacement is requested at early stage, then reliability is improved, but productivity decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The delay fault detection circuit provides continuous feedback on the actual aging state of the circuit elements by measuring delay times. This feedback allows for condition-based maintenance decisions rather than premature replacement, extending product life while maintaining safety by replacing components only when actual deterioration thresholds are reached.
Data Source
AI summary
A signal processing device includes an oscillation circuit, a protection target circuit, a delay time detection circuit, and a clock control circuit. The oscillation circuit receives the frequency control signal and generates a clock signal having a frequency corresponding to the frequency control signal. According to the above-mentioned configuration, even when a delay failure due to aging occurs in the signal processing device, it is possible to prevent a malfunction.