Digital Sub-Regulators for Independent Voltage Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
In systems where multiple circuit blocks share a common supply rail, the supply voltage is often set to support the highest clock speed, leading to wasted energy in blocks with lower clock speeds, as the voltage cannot be independently adjusted to reduce energy consumption.
Innovation Solution
Implementing digital sub-regulators for each circuit block to allow independent setting of supply voltage below the common supply rail voltage, using a variable-impedance switch with a control circuit that compares the block voltage to a reference voltage and adjusts impedance based on sensed logic values to maintain optimal voltage levels.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a common supply rail voltage is used for all circuit blocks, then all blocks can operate with sufficient voltage to support the highest clock speed, but blocks with lower clock speeds consume more energy than necessary
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the power supply system by introducing individual sub-regulators for each circuit block. Each sub-regulator independently controls the supply voltage to its respective block, allowing voltage to be tailored to the specific clock speed and power requirements of each block rather than using a single common supply voltage for all blocks.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies local quality by enabling each circuit block to receive a customized supply voltage level matched to its specific performance requirements. Blocks with lower clock speeds receive lower voltages, while blocks requiring higher clock speeds receive higher voltages, optimizing energy consumption at the local level for each block.
2Speed
If the supply voltage is set to support the highest clock speed, then maximum performance is achieved, but energy is wasted in blocks operating at lower clock speeds
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic voltage control through sub-regulators that can adjust supply voltage levels in real-time based on the operational requirements of each circuit block. This dynamic adjustment allows the system to optimize energy consumption by matching voltage levels to actual clock speed requirements rather than maintaining a static high voltage for all blocks.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the voltage parameter independently for each circuit block through sub-regulators. By varying the supply voltage parameter according to the specific clock speed and performance needs of each block, the system achieves maximum performance where needed while minimizing energy waste in blocks with lower requirements.
3Use of energy by moving object
If independent voltage control is implemented for each circuit block, then energy consumption is reduced, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies universality by designing sub-regulators with standardized architectures that can be replicated across multiple circuit blocks. Each sub-regulator performs the same fundamental function of voltage regulation, allowing for modular design and implementation that reduces overall system complexity despite the increased number of components.
Data Source
AI summary
A method for offset calibration of a voltage comparator is disclosed according to certain aspects of the present disclosure. The method includes applying a first bias voltage to a gate of a first compensation transistor, wherein the first compensation transistor is coupled in series with a first input transistor of the voltage comparator. The method also includes applying a second bias voltage to a gate of a second compensation transistor, wherein the second compensation transistor is coupled in series with a second input transistor of the voltage comparator. The method further includes sensing a logic value at an output of the voltage comparator, and adjusting the first bias voltage and the second bias voltage based on the sensed logic value.