Double-Swing Clock Generator for Charge Pump Efficiency
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Solution Overview
Problem
Single-swing clock generators in charge pumps suffer from decreased high voltage with advanced metal-oxide-semiconductor processes, leading to poor charge transfer characteristics, inefficient pumping cycles, and the need for specialized semiconductor devices and level shifters.
Innovation Solution
A double-swing clock generator utilizing a first clock and its inverse to produce first and second double-swing clocks, which are used to control a charge pump unit chain, maintaining charge transfer efficiency and eliminating the need for low threshold voltage devices and special semiconductor processes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If a single-swing clock generator is used in a charge pump, then the circuit structure is simple, but the charge transfer characteristic deteriorates as high voltage decreases with advanced semiconductor processes
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the dynamics principle by transitioning from a static single-swing clock signal to a dynamic double-swing clock signal that actively adapts to process variations. The double-swing clock generator dynamically adjusts the clock signal characteristics to maintain optimal charge transfer performance across different semiconductor process nodes, resolving the contradiction between circuit simplicity and charge transfer reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements parameter changes by modifying the clock signal voltage swing from single-swing to double-swing operation. This parameter change in the clock signal characteristics enables the charge pump to maintain effective charge transfer capability even as supply voltages decrease due to advanced semiconductor scaling, thereby preserving charge transfer characteristic without significantly increasing circuit complexity.
2Device complexity
If a single-swing clock generator is used, then the device count is reduced, but the pumping efficiency deteriorates during the first pumping cycle
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by implementing a precharge stage that prepares the charge pump nodes before the main pumping operation begins. This preliminary charging action ensures that the first pumping cycle achieves the same efficiency as subsequent cycles, eliminating the startup efficiency penalty while maintaining a compact device structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The double-swing clock generator dynamically controls the charging and discharging phases, enabling the charge pump to achieve consistent high efficiency from the first cycle onwards. The dynamic clock signal transitions ensure optimal timing and voltage levels during each pumping phase, maximizing productivity without requiring additional devices.
3Temperature
If a single-swing clock generator is applied, then the voltage swing is smaller, but the charge pump requires devices with low threshold voltage and wider width
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements parameter changes by doubling the voltage swing of the clock signal from single-swing to double-swing operation. This parameter change in voltage swing amplitude provides sufficient drive strength to control standard-threshold devices with normal width, eliminating the need for specialized low-threshold or wide-width devices while maintaining effective charge pump operation.
4Device complexity
If a single-swing clock generator is used, then the clock signal generation is simpler, but the charge pump requires level shifters and special semiconductor processes
Solution Approach 1:
The double-swing clock generator is designed to be universal and compatible with standard semiconductor manufacturing processes. The circuit uses conventional transistors and standard process technologies, eliminating the need for special semiconductor processes or level shifters. The multi-functional clock generator produces the necessary double-swing signals using only standard circuit elements, improving ease of manufacture.
Data Source
AI summary
A double-swing clock generator includes a first double-swing clock generation circuit and a second double-swing clock generation circuit. The first double-swing clock generation circuit is used for receiving a first voltage, a second voltage, a first clock, an inverse first clock, and a third voltage, and outputting a first double-swing clock. The second double-swing clock generation circuit is used for receiving a fourth voltage, the second voltage, the first clock, the inverse first clock, and the third voltage, and outputting a second double-swing clock.