Clock Tree Frequency Feedback for Stable Output Timing

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Solution Overview

Problem

As operating frequencies of clock signal generating circuits increase, data output time stability is compromised, and stabilizing the voltage of the clock tree is essential to address this issue.

Innovation Solution

A clock signal generating circuit with a voltage detector that transmits a clock signal to a clock tree circuit and adjusts the frequency of the clock signal based on the voltage of the clock tree circuit to maintain the voltage within a specified range, using thresholds to regulate energy consumption.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Productivity

If the operating frequency of the clock signal generating circuit is increased, then the productivity is improved, but the data output time stability deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveoperating frequencyVSAvoiddata output time stability
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements a feedback mechanism where the voltage detector continuously monitors the voltage of the clock tree circuit and feeds this information back to the voltage controller. The voltage controller adjusts the clock signal frequency based on the detected voltage to maintain stability within a threshold range, thereby resolving the contradiction between high operating frequency and data output time stability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

Solution Approach 2:

The patent dynamically changes the frequency parameter of the clock signal based on the detected voltage conditions. When voltage exceeds the upper threshold, the frequency is reduced; when voltage is below the lower threshold, the frequency is increased. This parameter adjustment maintains voltage stability and ensures reliable data output timing even at high operating frequencies.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

2Reliability

If the frequency of the clock signal is adjusted to maintain voltage stability, then the reliability is improved, but the productivity may be reduced

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvevoltage stabilityVSAvoidoperating frequency
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent employs dynamic frequency adjustment rather than a fixed frequency. The voltage controller dynamically modifies the clock signal frequency in real-time based on voltage detector feedback, allowing the system to operate at the highest possible frequency while maintaining voltage stability within acceptable thresholds.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The voltage controller automatically adjusts the clock frequency in response to voltage conditions without external intervention. The system self-regulates by detecting voltage deviations and autonomously modifying the operating frequency to maintain stability, eliminating the need for manual frequency tuning.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

3Ease of operation

If the voltage of the clock tree circuit fluctuates, then the ease of operation is maintained, but the data output time stability deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvevoltage fluctuation toleranceVSAvoiddata output time stability
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The voltage detector provides continuous feedback on the clock tree circuit voltage to the voltage controller. This feedback mechanism enables the system to detect voltage fluctuations and respond by adjusting the clock frequency, thereby maintaining data output time stability even when voltage conditions vary.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

Solution Approach 2:

The patent replaces traditional voltage regulation mechanisms with a frequency-based control approach. Instead of mechanically adjusting voltage through complex regulation circuits, the system substitutes a simpler frequency adjustment mechanism that achieves the same stability goal more efficiently.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Data Source

PatentUS10310549B1Clock signal generating circuit and operating method thereof
Publication Date: 2019.06.04 NAN YA TECH
  • US10310549B1 patent drawing
  • US10310549B1 patent drawing
  • US10310549B1 patent drawing

AI summary

An operating method of a clock signal generating circuit includes the following operations: transmitting a clock signal to a clock tree circuit by a voltage detector; and adjusting a frequency of the clock signal according to a voltage of the clock tree circuit so as to maintain the voltage within a voltage range.