Maximum Voltage Source Selector Circuit Design
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional maximum voltage source selectors require multiple power voltage signal paths based on the enable/disable state of semiconductor devices, leading to increased size and complexity.
Innovation Solution
A maximum voltage source selector design that uses a reduced number of gate transistors to select and output the maximum voltage regardless of the semiconductor device's operating state, employing PMOS and NMOS transistors and a selection unit to generate selection signals for determining the higher input voltage, thereby simplifying the circuit and reducing size.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple power voltage signal paths are used based on enable/disable state, then the maximum voltage source selector can properly select voltages in different operating states, but the overall area occupied by the circuit increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the previously separate power voltage signal paths for enable and disable states into a single unified path. The first and second gate transistors are both coupled to the same output node, eliminating the need for separate paths and reducing circuit area while maintaining the ability to select maximum voltage across different operating states.
Solution Approach 2:
The gate transistors are designed to perform multiple functions: they operate in linear region during enable state for precise voltage selection, and in saturation region during disable state for stable voltage output. This multi-functionality allows a single transistor configuration to handle different operating states without requiring separate dedicated paths.
2Area of stationary object
If a reduced number of gate transistors are used, then the circuit size is reduced, but the ability to maintain stable operation across different states must be preserved
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs dynamic operation of the gate transistors, switching between linear region and saturation region based on the enable/disable state. During enable state, transistors operate in linear region for precise voltage selection; during disable state, they operate in saturation region for stable voltage output. This dynamic adaptation maintains reliability while using fewer transistors.
Solution Approach 2:
The operating parameters of the gate transistors are changed based on the device state: in enable state, the transistors are biased to operate in linear region with specific voltage conditions; in disable state, they transition to saturation region operation. These parameter changes allow the same transistor to provide stable operation across different states without increasing transistor count.
Data Source
AI summary
A maximum voltage source selector adapted for use in a semiconductor device operative in a disable state or an enable state is disclosed. The maximum voltage source selector includes an output unit having an output node providing a maximum voltage selected from a first input voltage and a second input voltage. First and second gate transistors are commonly coupled to the output node and are respectively configured to select and provide the greater of the first and second input voltages to the output node in response to first and second selection signals without regard to whether the semiconductor device is in the disable state or the enable state. A selection unit generates the first and second selection signals in response to the first and second input voltages.