Internal Voltage Generation Circuit Dynamic Charge Pumping
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Solution Overview
Problem
Semiconductor apparatuses face challenges in reducing current consumption during standby mode while maintaining stable internal voltage generation, especially when power supply voltages are unstable, and require techniques to minimize current usage for generating boosted voltages.
Innovation Solution
An internal voltage generation circuit comprising a voltage detection unit, operation control signal generation unit, periodic pulse signal generation unit, and charge pumping unit, which selectively activates and controls the charge pumping operation based on target voltage levels and normal operation signals to optimize voltage generation and reduce current consumption.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Power
If charge pumping operation is performed to generate internal voltage higher than power supply voltage, then voltage level is improved, but current consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic control of the charge pumping operation by adjusting the operating frequency based on the required internal voltage level. When high current is needed to reach target voltage quickly, the frequency is increased; when voltage maintenance is sufficient, frequency is reduced to minimize current consumption. This dynamic adaptation resolves the contradiction between achieving high voltage and minimizing energy use.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the operating parameters of the charge pumping circuit, specifically the switching frequency and duty cycle, to optimize the balance between voltage generation efficiency and current consumption. By adjusting these parameters based on operational mode (standby vs. active), the system achieves high voltage output when needed while minimizing power consumption during normal operation.
2Reliability
If charge pumping operation is continuously performed to maintain internal voltage, then voltage stability is improved, but current consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs periodic charge pumping operations instead of continuous operation. The system monitors the internal voltage level and activates the charge pumping circuit only when the voltage drops below a threshold, then operates it periodically to restore the voltage to the target level. This periodic action maintains voltage stability while significantly reducing average current consumption compared to continuous operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements a feedback control mechanism where the internal voltage level is continuously monitored and compared against target levels. Based on this feedback, the charge pumping operation is selectively activated or deactivated, and its frequency is adjusted. This closed-loop control ensures voltage stability is maintained only when necessary, minimizing current consumption during stable operation.
3Reliability
If internal voltage is quickly raised to target level, then operation stability is improved, but current consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by pre-charging capacitors and preparing the charge pumping circuit before full operation begins. This allows the system to quickly reach target voltage levels when needed without requiring sustained high current. The preliminary charging phase establishes a head start that reduces the duration and intensity of subsequent charge pumping operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses dynamic frequency modulation of the charge pumping operation, starting with high frequency to quickly raise internal voltage to target levels when stability is critical, then transitioning to lower frequency once the target is reached. This dynamic adjustment allows rapid voltage establishment when needed while minimizing current consumption during maintenance phases.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The solution effectively reduces current consumption in standby mode and stabilizes internal voltage generation in normal mode by quickly raising the internal voltage to target levels, improving operation stability and reducing unnecessary current usage.
Implementation Method 1
a charge pumping unit configured to generate the internal voltage by performing a charge pumping operation according to control of the periodic pulse signal
Data Source
AI summary
An internal voltage generation circuit includes a voltage detection unit configured to generate a voltage detection signal that indicates whether a voltage level of an internal voltage is a first target voltage level or a second target voltage level higher than the first target voltage level, according to control of a normal operation signal. The internal voltage generation circuit also includes an operation control signal generation unit configured to selectively activate an operation control signal in response to the normal operation signal and the voltage detection signal, a periodic pulse signal generation unit configured to generate a periodic pulse signal in response to the operation control signal and the normal operation signal, and a charge pumping unit configured to generate an internal voltage by performing a charge pumping operation according to control of the periodic pulse signal.