Dynamic Level Shifting Circuit for Short-Circuit Current Reduction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional level shifting circuits experience high power consumption due to short-circuit currents, which is inefficient and undesirable in electronic systems.
Innovation Solution
A level shifting circuit with dynamic control is introduced, featuring a dynamic controller and level shifter that adjusts current output based on the stability of the level-shifted data signals, using a dynamic voltage and bias current controller to minimize short-circuit current during unstable states.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Use of energy by moving object
If the conventional level shifting circuit uses a cross-coupled structure with PMOS transistors to shift voltage levels, then the voltage level shifting function is achieved, but large short-circuit current flows to ground through the transistors during state transitions, increasing power consumption
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by making the current output capability of the bias current controller variable rather than fixed. The controller dynamically adjusts between a first current-output capability (higher current) and a second current-output capability (lower current) based on the stability state of the level-shifted data signal. This dynamic adjustment resolves the contradiction by reducing power consumption during stable states while maintaining sufficient current capability during unstable states when voltage level shifting is actively occurring.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the parameter of current output capability based on the stability parameter of the level-shifted data signal. When the signal is stable, the bias current controller operates at a lower current-output capability; when the signal is unstable, it switches to a higher current-output capability. This parameter change approach allows the circuit to optimize power consumption while ensuring reliable voltage level shifting functionality.
2Reliability
If the bias current controller operates at high current-output capability continuously, then sufficient current is available for voltage level shifting during unstable states, but power consumption increases due to continuous high current flow
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements periodic action by switching the bias current controller between two operational modes based on the stability of the level-shifted data signal. The controller alternates between a first current-output capability (higher current for reliable voltage shifting) and a second current-output capability (lower current for power savings). This periodic switching resolves the contradiction by providing high current capability only when needed during unstable states, while reducing power consumption during stable states.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies partial action by providing high current-output capability only partially - specifically during unstable states when voltage level shifting is required - rather than continuously. During stable states, the controller operates at a reduced current-output capability. This partial application of high current resolves the contradiction by ensuring sufficient current for voltage level shifting when needed, while avoiding excessive current flow and associated power consumption during stable operation.
Data Source
AI summary
A level shifting circuit with dynamic control includes a dynamic controller and a level shifter. The dynamic controller outputs a dynamic voltage and an output data signal. The level shifter under control by the dynamic controller includes an input signal receiver, an output signal generator, and a bias current controller, which are coupled in series between a ground voltage and a high level voltage. The input signal receiver receives the output data signal of the dynamic controller and the output signal generator produces a level-shifted data signal according to the input data signal. The bias current controller controlled by the dynamic voltage is at a first current-output capability when the level-shifted data signal is at a stable stage and at a second current-output capability when the level-shifted data signal is at an unstable stage. The first current-output capability is greater than the second current-output capability.