Configurable Temperature Dependent Reference Voltage Generator
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional bandgap voltage references are inefficient in providing stable supply voltages due to process corner variations in semiconductor fabrication, especially at sub-10 nm levels, leading to inadequate power efficiency and operating speed requirements in mobile and battery-powered applications.
Innovation Solution
A configurable temperature dependent reference voltage generator that adjusts reference voltage based on temperature data from a sensor, allowing selection between CTAT, PTAT, or flat temperature dependence, and clipping options to balance power consumption and speed specifications, using a temperature slope generator, control logic, and bandgap voltage generator.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional bandgap voltage references are used, then temperature independent reference voltage is provided, but power consumption efficiency deteriorates due to process corner variations
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a configurable reference voltage generator that dynamically adjusts its temperature dependence characteristics (CTAT, PTAT, or flat) based on process corner variations. The system uses control logic to select different operating modes that optimize power consumption efficiency while maintaining reference voltage stability across different fabrication processes.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the temperature dependence parameter of the reference voltage generator to adapt to different process corners. By trimming and clipping reference voltages according to process corners, the system optimizes power consumption efficiency while maintaining stability, directly addressing the contradiction between reliability and energy efficiency.
2Use of energy by stationary object
If supply voltage is decreased to below 1V, then power consumption is reduced, but operating speed deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent adjusts the reference voltage temperature dependence parameters to optimize the balance between power consumption and operating speed. By selecting appropriate temperature dependence modes (CTAT, PTAT, or flat), the system maintains stable reference voltages at low supply levels (below 1V) while compensating for speed deterioration through optimized voltage characteristics.
3Use of energy by moving object
If reference voltage is trimmed and clipped according to process corners, then power consumption efficiency is optimized, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the reference voltage generator into distinct functional blocks: temperature sensing unit, control logic, and trimming/clipping circuits. This segmentation allows independent optimization of each component, achieving power consumption efficiency through process corner-specific adjustments while managing overall device complexity through modular design.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements a universal reference voltage generator that can operate in multiple modes (CTAT, PTAT, or flat temperature dependence) to serve different process corners. This multi-functionality allows a single device to optimize power consumption across various fabrication processes without requiring separate dedicated circuits for each process corner.
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 solution provides a stable and adjustable reference voltage that optimizes power consumption and operating speed by trimming and clipping reference voltages according to process corners, ensuring efficient power management in semiconductor devices.
Implementation Method 1
temperature data from a temperature sensor
Implementation Method 2
bandgap voltage references are utilized to provide a stable, temperature independent, direct current (DC) reference voltage
Data Source
AI summary
Systems and apparatuses for a configurable, temperature dependent reference voltage generator are provided. An example apparatus includes control logic configured receive temperature data, and produce a signal, based on the temperature data, indicative of the temperature data, a temperature dependence and a temperature slope. The apparatus may also include a temperature slope reference generator configured to produce a reference voltage having the temperature dependence and the temperature slope, based on the signal from the control logic.