Multi-Phase Clock Generation With PVT-Stable Phase Synchronization
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing clock generation circuits in integrated circuits, such as semiconductor apparatuses, face challenges in maintaining consistent duty ratios and transition times of multi-phase clock signals due to variations in Process, Voltage, and Temperature (PVT), which affects the reliability of these signals.
Innovation Solution
A clock generation circuit comprising a control clock generation circuit, first and second clock synchronization circuits, and a pumping circuit, where the control clock generation circuit compares reference voltages with feedback clock signals to generate control clock signals, and the synchronization circuits synchronize feedback clock signals to produce phase clock signals, thereby ensuring consistent phase differences and reducing PVT influence.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If a ring oscillator including a plurality of inverting gates is used to generate multi-phase clock signals, then the clock generation circuit can be implemented with a chain coupling structure, but variation of PVT has a great influence on the inverting gates causing intended duty ratios and transition time points to be unguaranteed
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements feedback mechanisms where the generated multi-phase clock signals are fed back to the inverting gates. This feedback allows the system to automatically adjust and compensate for PVT variations, ensuring that duty ratios and transition time points remain stable despite process, voltage, and temperature changes. The feedback loop continuously monitors signal characteristics and corrects deviations, resolving the contradiction between ease of manufacture and reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs parameter changes by dynamically adjusting the operating parameters of the inverting gates in response to PVT variations. Through controlled modification of voltage levels, current biases, or timing parameters, the system compensates for environmental changes and maintains consistent clock signal characteristics. This approach allows the circuit to adapt to different conditions while preserving signal integrity and timing accuracy.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the clock generation circuit uses inverting gates with chain coupling structure, then the circuit can generate multi-phase clock signals, but the duty ratios and transition time points cannot be guaranteed due to PVT variation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces dynamic adjustment mechanisms that allow the inverting gates to adapt their characteristics in real-time based on operating conditions. The circuit transitions from a static chain coupling structure to a dynamic system that can modify its behavior to compensate for PVT variations. This dynamic approach enables the circuit to maintain precise duty ratios and transition times while preserving the adaptability of the multi-phase clock generation function.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements preliminary calibration or pre-adjustment mechanisms that prepare the inverting gates for optimal operation before actual clock signal generation begins. By pre-configuring the gates to account for expected PVT variations, the system establishes accurate duty ratios and transition time points from the start, ensuring manufacturing precision is maintained throughout operation while preserving circuit adaptability.
Data Source
AI summary
A clock generation circuit includes a control clock generation circuit and first and second clock synchronization circuits. The control clock generation circuit compares a reference voltage with first and second feedback clock signals to generate first and second control clock signals. The first clock synchronization circuit makes the first and second feedback clock signals transit in synchronization with the first and second control clock signals. The second clock synchronization circuit generates first and second phase clock signals in synchronization with the first feedback clock signal and the second feedback clock signal.