Logic State Retention Circuit for Fast Low-Power Voltage Switching
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Solution Overview
Problem
Complex microcontrollers and systems-on-a-chip devices face challenges in utilizing low power modes due to high latency times associated with entering and exiting these modes, which negatively impact performance and power consumption.
Innovation Solution
A power management system is implemented with a second voltage regulator in series with a first voltage regulator, using an external capacitor to provide a reduced voltage during low power modes, allowing quick voltage transitions and reducing power consumption by decoupling the logic circuit from the first regulator.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Use of energy by moving object
If low power modes are implemented to extend battery life, then power consumption is reduced, but latency times increase negatively impacting performance
Solution Approach 1:
The voltage regulation system is segmented into two independent regulators: a first voltage regulator for normal operation and a second voltage regulator for low power mode. This segmentation allows each regulator to be optimized for its specific function, enabling fast transitions without compromising performance or power efficiency.
Solution Approach 2:
The second voltage regulator is pre-configured and ready to operate independently when low power mode is activated. By having the second regulator already in place and capable of immediate operation, the system avoids the latency associated with initializing voltage regulation circuitry during mode transitions.
2Device complexity
If a single voltage regulator is used to provide operating voltage, then device complexity is reduced, but transition time between power modes increases
Solution Approach 1:
The voltage regulation function is divided between two regulators operating in parallel but selective modes. The first regulator handles normal operation while the second regulator handles low power mode, allowing each to be optimized for its specific operating conditions and enabling fast transitions.
Solution Approach 2:
Both voltage regulators are designed to provide voltage to the same logic circuit, making them universally compatible with the load. This multi-functionality allows seamless switching between regulators without requiring additional circuitry or complex transition management.
3Use of energy by moving object
If the first voltage regulator is disabled during low power mode to save power, then power consumption is reduced, but voltage stability may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The second voltage regulator acts as an intermediary power source during low power mode. It independently provides the necessary voltage to the logic circuit, decoupling the load from the first regulator and ensuring voltage stability without requiring the first regulator to remain active.
Solution Approach 2:
The second voltage regulator is designed to replicate the voltage output function of the first regulator but optimized for low power operation. This copying approach ensures that the logic circuit receives stable voltage during low power mode just as it would during normal operation, maintaining reliability while reducing power consumption.
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
This solution enables efficient use of low power modes by reducing latency and extending battery life through quick voltage transitions and reduced power consumption during low power modes.
Implementation Method 1
The second regulator uses energy stored in the external capacitor to provide the reduced voltage and leakage current to the logic circuit during the low power mode
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3
AI summary
A power management system is provided. The power management system includes a first voltage regulator having an input coupled to a first voltage supply terminal and an output. The first voltage regulator is configured to provide an operating voltage at the output. A second voltage regulator has an input coupled to the output of the first voltage regulator. The second voltage regulator is configured to provide at an output a retention voltage based on a control signal. A control circuit is coupled to the second voltage regulator and configured to provide the control signal to the second voltage regulator.