Mode Buffer Sequencing for Low-Power Semiconductor Wake-Up

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional semiconductor devices consume power for multiple buffer elements even in max power down mode, which contradicts the goal of minimizing power consumption.

Innovation Solution

A semiconductor device design that enables the max power down mode exit operation using only a minimal number of buffer elements by strategically controlling the enablement of buffer elements, specifically enabling a second buffer element in response to a first mode signal to perform the exit operation, thereby reducing power consumption.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If multiple buffer elements are kept enabled to allow exit from max power down mode, then the device can exit the mode reliably, but power consumption increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvemax power down mode exit operationVSAvoidpower consumption

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSUse of energy by moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The buffer elements are dynamically controlled - enabled during normal operation and disabled during max power down mode, except for the first buffer element that remains enabled to detect exit conditions. This dynamic switching resolves the contradiction by adapting buffer availability to operational needs.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The patent extracts the essential function of buffer elements needed for max power down mode exit, keeping only the first buffer element enabled while disabling others. This selective extraction maintains the necessary exit capability while eliminating unnecessary power consumption from other buffers.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #2Taking out (Extraction)

2Use of energy by moving object

If all buffer elements are disabled in max power down mode, then power consumption is minimized, but the device cannot exit the mode

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvepower consumptionVSAvoidmax power down mode exit operation

Core Design Contradiction:

Use of energy by moving objectVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The first buffer element acts as an intermediary that remains enabled to receive and process the first mode signal indicating exit conditions. This intermediary buffer enables the exit operation while other buffers remain disabled to minimize power consumption.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The buffer elements are segmented into two groups: the first buffer element that remains enabled for exit detection, and other buffer elements that are disabled for power savings. This segmentation allows differentiated power management based on functional necessity.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

3Use of energy by moving object

If a minimal number of buffer elements are used for max power down mode exit, then power consumption is reduced, but the exit operation may fail

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvepower consumptionVSAvoidmax power down mode exit operation

Core Design Contradiction:

Use of energy by moving objectVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The first buffer element is strategically positioned to receive the first mode signal that indicates max power down mode exit conditions. This single buffer element suffices to trigger the exit sequence, making the system self-sufficient with minimal components while maintaining reliability.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

Data Source

PatentUS20120025871A1Semiconductor device and method for operating the same

Publication Date: 2012.02.02 SK HYNIX INC

AI summary

A semiconductor device includes a first buffer element configured to buffer a first mode signal inputted from the outside of the semiconductor device, and a second buffer element configured to buffer a second mode signal inputted from the outside by being enabled in response to an output signal of the first buffer element.