Dual-Oscillator Clock Circuit for Fast Frequency Switching
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing communication systems face challenges in accelerating communication speeds due to the time-consuming process of changing signal frequencies, which limits the maximum communicable frequency and requires increased data storage capacity to prevent overflow.
Innovation Solution
A semiconductor integrated circuit with a clock generation circuit that uses a feedback loop for stable frequency generation and an additional oscillator without a feedback loop to rapidly change output frequencies, allowing for quick adjustments without disturbing the feedback loop, thereby enabling faster frequency changes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Speed
If signal frequency is changed to accelerate communication speed, then communication speed is improved, but frequency change time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the frequency generation system into two independent oscillators: a first oscillator configured to generate a stable frequency through a feedback loop, and a second oscillator configured to generate variable frequencies without a feedback loop. This segmentation allows the second oscillator to change frequencies rapidly without disturbing the stable feedback loop of the first oscillator, thus reducing frequency change time while maintaining communication speed acceleration
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a frequency selection circuit as an intermediary that selects between the first oscillator's stable frequency and the second oscillator's variable frequency. This intermediary mechanism enables smooth frequency transitions without directly disturbing the feedback loop, resolving the contradiction between fast frequency changing and communication stability
2Adaptability or versatility
If frequency is made variable to maximize communicable frequency, then communication flexibility is improved, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the frequency generation function into two independent oscillators with distinct roles: one dedicated to stability and the other to variability. This clear functional segmentation simplifies the control logic compared to a single complex oscillator, as each oscillator can be optimized independently for its specific function without interfering with the other
Solution Approach 2:
The patent makes the second oscillator universally applicable for various frequency requirements without requiring separate feedback control circuits for each frequency. The ability to rapidly switch between different frequencies using the second oscillator provides multi-functionality in frequency generation, reducing overall system complexity while maintaining adaptability
Data Source
AI summary
A semiconductor integrated circuit includes a first oscillator configured to generate a first signal with a first frequency based on a control signal and output the first signal to a path. The semiconductor integrated circuit includes a control signal generation circuit operatively coupled to the first oscillator via the path, and configured to receive the first signal from the first oscillator via the path and generate the control signal. The semiconductor integrated circuit includes a second oscillator configured to generate a second signal with a second frequency based on the control signal and output the second signal to an output terminal outside the path.