Logic Circuit Reset Synchronization for Dynamic D Flip-Flops

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing logic circuits, such as those using ring counters with D flip-flops, face challenges in achieving high-speed operation while minimizing malfunctions, particularly due to issues with clock signal synchronization and data retention in dynamic D flip-flops.

Innovation Solution

A logic circuit design incorporating a reset synchronization unit with static D flip-flops and a frequency dividing unit with dynamic D flip-flops, where the static D flip-flops synchronize the reset signal with the clock signal to ensure proper initialization and reduce the risk of malfunctions caused by charge leakage.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Speed

If dynamic D flip-flops are used for high-speed operation, then operation speed is improved, but malfunction risk increases due to charge leakage when clock signals are held at high or low levels

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveoperation speedVSAvoidmalfunction risk
Core Design Contradiction:
SpeedVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The circuit is divided into two distinct units: a frequency dividing unit using dynamic D flip-flops for high-speed operation, and a reset synchronization unit using static D flip-flops for reliable reset signal generation. This segmentation allows each unit to optimize for its specific function while mitigating the weaknesses of the other approach.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The reset synchronization unit acts as an intermediary between the external reset signal and the frequency dividing unit. It synchronizes the reset signal with the clock signal using static D flip-flops, which are immune to charge leakage issues, thereby providing a reliable initialization signal to the dynamic D flip-flops without exposing them to the harmful effects of prolonged clock holding.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Device complexity

If reset signal is not synchronized with clock signal, then circuit complexity is reduced, but data retention stability deteriorates due to improper initialization timing

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecircuit complexityVSAvoiddata retention stability
Core Design Contradiction:
Device complexityVSStability of the object's composition

Solution Approach 1:

The reset synchronization unit performs preliminary action by pre-synchronizing the reset signal with the clock signal before it reaches the frequency dividing unit. The static D flip-flops in the reset synchronization unit advance the reset signal timing to align with clock edges, ensuring that the dynamic D flip-flops are properly initialized at the correct moment without requiring complex synchronization logic throughout the entire circuit.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Data Source

PatentUS11923854B2Logic circuit
Publication Date: 2024.03.05 CANON KK
  • US11923854B2 patent drawing
  • US11923854B2 patent drawing
  • US11923854B2 patent drawing

AI summary

Provided is a logic circuit including a first circuit including a static D flip-flop and a second circuit including a dynamic D flip-flop. The first circuit receives a clock signal and a first reset signal. The first circuit outputs a second reset signal generated by synchronizing the first reset signal with the clock signal. The second circuit receives the clock signal and a signal based on the second reset signal.