Multi-Phase Clock Generator for Stable Voltage Generation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing voltage generation circuits face issues with accurate generation of operation voltages at desired levels when multiple circuits are activated simultaneously, leading to electromagnetic interference (EMI) due to the use of a single clock signal with the same phase.
Innovation Solution
A clock generator that generates multiple clock signals with different phases, combined with a voltage generation circuit that uses these signals to produce operation voltages, ensuring stable voltage generation by distributing operations across multiple circuits.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If multiple voltage generation circuits are simultaneously activated by one clock signal having the same phase, then the voltage generation circuits can operate concurrently to generate different levels of operation voltages, but the voltage generation circuits cannot accurately generate the operation voltage at a desired target level and electromagnetic interference (EMI) issues occur
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the single clock signal into multiple clock signals with different phases (e.g., CLK1, CLK2, CLK3 with 0°, 120°, 240° phases). Each voltage generation circuit receives a different phased clock signal, segmenting the simultaneous operation into phase-staggered operations. This segmentation allows concurrent operation while preventing the EMI and accuracy issues caused by identical-phase synchronization.
2Productivity
If multiple voltage generation circuits are simultaneously activated by one clock signal having the same phase, then the voltage generation circuits can operate concurrently to generate different levels of operation voltages, but electromagnetic interference (EMI) issues occur
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements periodic action by using clock signals with different phases (e.g., 0°, 120°, 240°) to drive the voltage generation circuits. Each circuit operates periodically but with a phase offset, creating a distributed periodic operation pattern. This approach maintains high productivity through concurrent operation while reducing EMI by avoiding simultaneous switching of all circuits.
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
The solution effectively mitigates EMI and ensures stable operation voltage generation by utilizing multiple clock signals with distinct phases, allowing for precise voltage control without interference.
Implementation Method 1
a voltage supply circuit configured to perform charging of a first current, and thus generate a control voltage in which a voltage level increases during an activation period of a control signal
Implementation Method 2
a plurality of clock output circuits configured to generate a plurality of comparison signals by comparing each of a plurality of reference voltages having different levels with the control voltage
Data Source
AI summary
A clock generator includes a voltage supply circuit configured to generate a control voltage based on a first current and a control signal. The clock generator also includes a first clock output circuit configured to output the control signal by comparing a first reference voltage with the control voltage, and to output a first clock signal by comparing a third reference voltage having a different voltage level from the first reference voltage with the control voltage. clock generator further includes a second clock output circuit configured to compare a second reference voltage with the control voltage, to compare a fourth reference voltage having a different voltage level from the second reference voltage with the control voltage, and to generate a second clock signal having a phase different from that of the first clock signal.