Latch-Based Clock Delay Control for PVT-Stable Timing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing clock delay circuits are sensitive to variations in process, frequency, voltage, and temperature, affecting the accuracy of the clock delay across a desired operating range.
Innovation Solution
A clock delay circuit that uses a latch and a delay control circuit with a charging state rate control mechanism, where the delay between the input and output clock signals is dependent on the duty cycle of a third clock signal, allowing for adjustable delay and improved stability across varying conditions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If traditional delay elements are used to introduce delay to clock signals, then the circuit structure is simple, but the delay accuracy deteriorates due to sensitivity to process, frequency, voltage, and temperature variations
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs feedback mechanisms where the delay control circuit continuously monitors the actual delay introduced to the clock signal and adjusts the duty cycle of the third clock signal accordingly. This closed-loop feedback system compensates for variations in process, frequency, voltage, and temperature, maintaining accurate delay despite environmental changes.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the duty cycle parameter of the third clock signal to control the delay amount. By varying this parameter dynamically through the delay control circuit, the system achieves precise delay adjustment while compensating for environmental variations, resolving the contradiction between accuracy and complexity.
2Measurement precision
If the duty cycle of the third clock signal is adjusted to change delay, then the delay accuracy is improved, but the sensitivity to process, frequency, voltage, and temperature variations increases
Solution Approach 1:
The feedback mechanism in the delay control circuit continuously monitors environmental conditions and the actual delay performance, then adjusts the duty cycle of the third clock signal to compensate for process, frequency, voltage, and temperature variations. This maintains both accuracy and reliability simultaneously.
Solution Approach 2:
The delay control circuit performs self-adjustment by automatically modifying the duty cycle in response to detected variations, enabling the system to maintain stable and accurate delay without external intervention, thus improving both precision and reliability.
3Adaptability or versatility
If a latch is used with duty cycle control to achieve adjustable delay, then the adaptability is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The latch circuit serves multiple functions: it stores the delayed clock signal, enables duty cycle-based delay control, and works within the feedback loop for automatic adjustment. This multi-functionality provides wide adaptability while managing circuit complexity efficiently.
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically adjusts the duty cycle of the third clock signal to achieve variable delay amounts. This dynamic control mechanism provides adaptability across different delay requirements while using a manageable circuit structure through integrated control.
Data Source
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AI summary
A clock delay circuit includes an output to provide an output clock signal which is a delayed version of an input clock signal. The clock delay circuit includes a latch whose output provides the output clock signal. A delay control circuit provides a third clock signal. The latch includes a first input to receive the input clock signal and a second input to receive the third clock signal. The amount of delay provided by the latch is dependent upon the duty cycle of the third clock signal.