Flip-Flop Memory Interface for Single-Cycle Multi-Pumping
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing memory devices face challenges in efficiently performing read and write operations within a single clock cycle due to hold racing, which increases cycle time and power consumption, particularly in multi-pumping memory systems.
Innovation Solution
Implementing a flip-flop interface with low-through and high-through latches (LL and HL) to manage signal propagation and storage, replacing hold racing with setup racing, thereby reducing cycle time and power consumption.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If hold racing is used to manage signal propagation in multi-pumping memory systems, then read and write operations can be performed, but cycle time increases and power consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the fundamental parameter of signal propagation control from hold racing to setup racing. By transitioning to setup racing with flip-flop interfaces, the system achieves the same signal propagation management function with reduced cycle time, directly resolving the technical contradiction between operational efficiency and time loss
Solution Approach 2:
The patent substitutes the hold racing mechanism with a flip-flop interface mechanism. This replacement introduces clocked latches that control signal propagation through setup racing instead of hold racing, fundamentally changing the operational mechanism to achieve both read and write operations within a single clock cycle without the penalties of increased cycle time
2Productivity
If hold racing is used to manage signal propagation in multi-pumping memory systems, then read and write operations can be performed, but power consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the fundamental parameter of signal propagation control from hold racing to setup racing. By transitioning to setup racing with flip-flop interfaces, the system achieves the same signal propagation management function with reduced power consumption, directly resolving the technical contradiction between operational efficiency and energy consumption
Solution Approach 2:
The patent substitutes the hold racing mechanism with a flip-flop interface mechanism. This replacement introduces clocked latches that control signal propagation through setup racing instead of hold racing, fundamentally changing the operational mechanism to achieve both read and write operations within a single clock cycle with reduced power consumption
3Productivity
If a single clock cycle is used for read and write operations, then productivity improves, but hold racing increases cycle time and power consumption
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces flip-flop interfaces as intermediary elements between the input pins and the memory array. These flip-flops act as mediators that manage signal propagation through clocked latches, enabling single-clock-cycle read and write operations while avoiding the complexities and penalties of hold racing through their setup racing mechanism
Data Source
AI summary
A memory circuit includes a memory array comprising a plurality of memory cells. The memory circuit includes a low-through latch (LL) coupled to a pin and a control line, wherein the control line carries a clock signal. The memory circuit includes a high-through latch (HL) coupled to the LL, the control line, and the memory array. The HL is configured to propagate signals when the clock signal is high and stop propagation of the signals when the clock signal is low. The LL is configured to propagate signals when the clock signal is low and stop propagation of the signals when the clock signal is high.