Memory Power Supply Control Circuit Voltage Transition
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Solution Overview
Problem
Electronic circuits, particularly memory devices like SRAM, face challenges in efficiently switching between different voltage levels to conserve power without inducing 'dead zones' or excessive current flow, which can lead to data loss and power wastage.
Innovation Solution
A semiconductor memory device with a power supply control circuit that selectively connects to two source voltage levels using sequenced switches to minimize peak currents, ensuring sufficient current flow and data integrity during voltage changes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Use of energy by moving object
If the memory device switches between different voltage levels to conserve power, then power consumption is reduced, but data loss may occur due to dead zones during voltage transitions
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by pre-charging bit lines to a specific voltage level before voltage transitions and maintaining a minimum current flow through the memory array during switching. This preparatory current flow prevents dead zones that would cause data loss, allowing safe voltage level changes while preserving data integrity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses an intermediary approach by introducing a controlled minimum current path that acts as a mediator during voltage transitions. This current path ensures continuous power delivery to the memory array during switching between voltage levels, preventing data loss while enabling power savings.
2Use of energy by moving object
If switches are used to connect different source voltages to the memory array, then power consumption is reduced at lower voltages, but excessive peak currents may flow during switching
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by pre-charging bit lines to the higher voltage level before switching occurs. This preparation ensures that when the voltage transition happens, the bit lines are already at the appropriate potential, minimizing the voltage differential and resulting peak current during the switching event.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses parameter changes by dynamically adjusting the timing and sequence of switch operations based on the voltage transition requirements. The control circuit modifies switching parameters to ensure smooth transitions that minimize peak currents while maintaining the ability to operate at reduced power levels.
3Use of energy by moving object
If voltage level switching is implemented for power savings, then energy efficiency improves, but the complexity of the power supply control circuit increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies universality by designing the power supply control circuit to perform multiple functions: voltage level switching, bit line pre-charging, and minimum current flow maintenance. This multi-functional approach consolidates what could be separate complex circuits into a unified control mechanism, managing complexity while enabling power savings.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses self-service by implementing control logic that automatically manages the voltage switching sequence and timing based on operational conditions. The control circuit autonomously determines when to switch voltages and how to maintain minimum current flow, reducing the need for external complex control mechanisms.
Data Source
AI summary
A memory device includes a controller connected to first, second, third and fourth switches and configured to selectively operate the switches to connect first and second source voltage input terminals to a memory based on a desired current level required for the memory array.