Memory Cell Power Node Separation for Fault-Tolerant Read Access
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Solution Overview
Problem
The high voltage supply node in fluidic dies is prone to electrical damage due to failed fluid actuation devices, making it difficult to access and diagnose non-volatile memory data, which is crucial for failure analysis and data integrity in inkjet printing systems.
Innovation Solution
A dual output voltage regulator circuit generates a memory-write voltage from a first high voltage power supply and a memory-read voltage from a second low voltage power supply, allowing independent reading of memory cells even if the high voltage supply is damaged, and reducing the risk of data corruption.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a single high voltage power supply node is used for writing memory cells, then the writing function is achieved, but the system becomes vulnerable to electrical damage and data becomes inaccessible when the high voltage supply fails
Solution Approach 1:
The power supply system is segmented into two independent power supply nodes: a first power supply node for writing operations and a second power supply node for reading operations. This segmentation isolates the vulnerable high voltage writing path from the safe low voltage reading path, allowing memory data to be accessed even when the high voltage supply is damaged.
Solution Approach 2:
A voltage regulator circuit acts as an intermediary between the first high voltage power supply node and the memory cells during write operations, and between the second low voltage power supply node and the memory cells during read operations. This intermediary protects the memory cells from direct exposure to harmful high voltage while enabling reliable data access.
2Ease of operation
If the high voltage power supply is always active for memory writing, then writing capability is maintained, but the risk of data corruption increases when the high voltage supply is damaged
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically switches between different power supply nodes based on the operation type: the first high voltage power supply node is activated for writing operations, while the second low voltage power supply node is activated for reading operations. This dynamic power management ensures writing capability when needed while protecting against data corruption during reading operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The system prepares a safe low voltage reading path in advance through the second power supply node, so that if the high voltage writing supply fails, data can still be read without corruption. This pre-established safe path cushions against the potential harm of high voltage supply failure.
3Reliability
If a dual power supply system is implemented for independent reading and writing, then data integrity and diagnostic capability are improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The second low voltage power supply node serves multiple functions: it enables safe reading operations, provides a diagnostic path when the high voltage supply fails, and can potentially support other low-power operations. This multi-functionality justifies the added complexity by providing both data integrity and enhanced diagnostic capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the voltage parameter of the power supply based on the operation mode: high voltage for writing, low voltage for reading. This parameter change allows the same memory cells to be accessed through different voltage levels, achieving both data integrity and diagnostic capability without requiring entirely separate memory structures.
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 robust reading of memory cells independent of the high power supply, ensuring data integrity and facilitating efficient diagnosis of fluidic dies, thereby improving the reliability of inkjet printing systems.
Implementation Method 1
A first power supply node (104) is to supply power to the plurality of memory cells (102) to write data to the plurality of memory cells (102)
Implementation Method 2
A second power supply node (106) is to supply power to the plurality of memory cells (102) to read data from the plurality of memory cells (102)
Data Source
Figure 1A~1B
Figure 2
Figure 3A~3D
AI summary
A print cartridge circuitry component comprising an integrated circuit for association with a plurality of fluid actuation devices and comprising input signal contacts to receive input signals from a host printer. The integrated circuit includes a plurality of memory cells, a first power supply node, and a second power supply node. The first power supply node is to supply power to the plurality of memory cells to write data to the plurality of memory cells. The second power supply node is to supply power to the plurality of memory cells to read data from the plurality of memory cells.