Internal Voltage Generation Circuit Temperature Compensation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Semiconductor devices face challenges in generating internal voltages such as core, boost, and back-bias voltages efficiently, as existing charge pump circuits are temperature-dependent and lack precise control mechanisms.
Innovation Solution
An internal voltage generation circuit that includes a voltage generator producing temperature, division, and selection reference voltage signals, with a detection voltage generator controlling a pumping operation based on these signals to maintain stable internal voltage levels across varying temperatures.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If charge pump circuits are used to generate internal voltages, then internal voltages (core, boost, back-bias) can be generated, but the circuits become temperature-dependent and lack precise control
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a feedback mechanism where a detection voltage generator continuously monitors the internal voltage signal level and compares it against reference voltages. The comparison result feeds back to control the charge pump operation, ensuring the internal voltage remains stable despite temperature variations. This closed-loop control system automatically adjusts the pumping operation to maintain precise voltage levels.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces temperature compensation by generating a temperature reference voltage signal that varies with temperature. This temperature-dependent parameter is used to adjust the detection threshold dynamically, compensating for temperature effects on the charge pump circuit. By changing the reference parameter based on temperature, the system maintains stable operation across different thermal conditions.
2Ease of operation
If existing charge pump circuits are used, then internal voltages can be generated, but precise control mechanisms are lacking
Solution Approach 1:
The control circuit is segmented into distinct functional modules: a voltage generator that produces multiple reference voltage signals (division reference and temperature reference), a detection voltage generator that compares these references against the internal voltage, and a control unit that adjusts the charge pump based on comparison results. This modular segmentation provides precise control while organizing complexity into manageable, independent blocks.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces intermediary reference voltage signals that mediate between the raw internal voltage and the control decision. The division reference voltage and temperature reference voltage act as intermediaries, allowing the system to compare and evaluate the internal voltage state without direct complex control logic. These intermediary signals simplify the control mechanism while maintaining precision.
3Reliability
If temperature compensation is implemented, then temperature independence is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the temperature compensation function with the existing reference voltage generation circuitry. The temperature reference voltage is generated using the same voltage generator block that produces the division reference voltage, combining multiple functions into a single integrated unit. This merging approach provides temperature stability while avoiding the need for separate, additional temperature sensing and compensation circuits.
Data Source
AI summary
An internal voltage generation circuit including a voltage generator and a detection voltage generator. The voltage generator generates a temperature reference voltage signal whose level depends on an internal temperature, a division reference voltage signal whose level is constant regardless of the internal temperature, and a selection reference voltage signal obtained by detecting a level of an internal voltage signal. The detection voltage generator compares the division reference voltage signal and the selection reference voltage signal in response to the temperature reference voltage signal to generate a detection voltage signal controlling a pumping operation of the internal voltage signal.