Programmable Logic Circuit Shifter Blocks for Defect Bypass
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Solution Overview
Problem
Programmable logic integrated circuits face issues with waste in circuit configuration due to unused spare circuits when no defects occur, and difficulties in creating configuration data to bypass defective elements, leading to inefficiencies in resource usage and quality variation.
Innovation Solution
A programmable logic integrated circuit with a switch block using non-volatile switching elements to connect row and column wiring, and a shifter block with redundant wiring and non-volatile switching elements to control connections, allowing for effective use of spare circuits and flexible circuit configuration.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a spare circuit is provided in preparation for defective elements, then reliability is improved, but device complexity and chip area increase
Solution Approach 1:
The shifter block is designed to perform multiple functions: normal circuit operation and defective element bypass. By making the shifter block universal, the patent eliminates the need for separate spare circuits, reducing device complexity while maintaining reliability through configuration data that adapts to defective elements
2Reliability
If a spare circuit is provided in preparation for defective elements, then reliability is improved, but chip area increases
Solution Approach 1:
The shifter block serves dual purposes as both a normal circuit component and a bypass mechanism for defective elements. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for dedicated spare circuit area, maintaining reliability without increasing chip area
3Reliability
If configuration data is created to bypass defective elements, then reliability is improved, but productivity decreases due to configuration creation difficulties
Solution Approach 1:
The shifter block is pre-configured with switching elements positioned to enable bypass paths before defects are known. Configuration data is designed in advance to utilize these pre-positioned shifters, eliminating the need for complex post-manufacturing configuration creation and improving productivity
4Device complexity
If wiring is crowded due to high usage rate, then device complexity is reduced, but reliability decreases when bypassing defective elements becomes impossible
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the wiring structure by introducing dedicated shifter blocks at strategic positions. These shifters create localized bypass paths that segment the overall wiring complexity, allowing reliable defect avoidance even when other wiring regions are crowded and cannot accommodate additional bypass routes
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
Enables efficient operation and effective use of circuit resources even with defective elements, maintaining quality and allowing for more varied logic configurations.
Implementation Method 1
a switch block which switches connection between row wiring and column wiring by a non-volatile switching element for switching
Implementation Method 2
provided with a non-volatile switching element for shifting to control connection of each wiring included in the redundant wiring and the row wiring
Data Source
AI summary
In a programmable logic integrated circuit, providing a spare circuit in preparation for the occurrence of a defective element results in a redundant circuit configuration. A programmable logic integrated circuit according to the present invention has: a plurality of logic blocks; a switch block for switching the connections between row and column wires by nonvolatile switch elements for switching; and a shifter block for connecting an input/output wire to said switch block. The shifter block includes a redundant wire and is equipped with nonvolatile switch elements for shifting that control the connections of the wires constituting said redundant wire and said row wires.