Polysynchronous Stochastic Circuits for Clock Distribution

The patent divides the system into multiple independent clock domains, each with its own local clock signal. Instead of using a single global clock distribution network, the system segments the clocking function across multiple domains. Each clock domain operates independently with locally generated clock signals, eliminating the need for extensive global clock routing while maintaining synchronization within each domain.

The patent implements local clock generation within each clock domain using ring oscillators. Each domain has its own local clock signal source that generates clock signals tailored to its specific timing requirements. This local approach eliminates the need for distant global clock distribution, reducing area consumption and power usage while maintaining adequate timing synchronization within each domain.

The patent segments the clock distribution function into multiple independent clock domains, each with its own local clock source. This segmentation eliminates the need for power-intensive global clock routing across the entire chip. Each local clock domain consumes power only for its own operations rather than supporting the entire system through a global network.

Each clock domain is self-sufficient with its own local ring oscillator that generates clock signals independently. The local clock generators serve their respective domains without requiring power from a centralized global clock source. This self-service approach significantly reduces overall power consumption by eliminating redundant clock signal distribution across the entire system.

The patent changes the fundamental parameter representation from deterministic binary values to stochastic bit streams. In this stochastic domain, computational units process probabilistic information where the exact timing alignment becomes less critical. The system tolerates clock skew by design, as the stochastic computation model inherently handles timing variations through statistical processing rather than requiring precise synchronous alignment.

The patent uses simple ring oscillator circuits as local clock sources, which are much cheaper and simpler than global clock distribution infrastructure. These local oscillators accept some degree of skew and misalignment as tolerable trade-offs for the significant reductions in area and power consumption. The stochastic processing units are designed to be robust against timing variations, making the system resilient to clock imperfections.