Power Management Unit for Multi-Domain IC State Synchronization
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Solution Overview
Problem
Integrated circuits face challenges in managing power states across different power domains, where functional circuit blocks operate optimally under specific conditions, leading to independent power management and potential inefficiencies in communication and resource sharing.
Innovation Solution
A power management unit controls the power states of functional circuit blocks across multiple power domains, setting the power state of a shared block to match the closest available state of another block, optimizing bandwidth and power efficiency, and inhibiting further changes to stabilize performance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If functional circuit blocks operate independently in different power domains with independent power management, then each block can operate optimally under its specific conditions, but power efficiency deteriorates due to lack of coordination and potential inefficiencies in communication and resource sharing
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges power management control across multiple power domains by having a power management unit in one domain control the power states of shared functional blocks in other domains. This coordination allows the system to maintain operational flexibility while improving power efficiency by preventing redundant operations and optimizing resource sharing across domains.
2Productivity
If power states are frequently adjusted to optimize performance, then system performance improves, but stability deteriorates due to rapid changes and potential oscillations
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements periodic action by introducing a predetermined time interval after power state changes. When the power state of a functional block changes, the power management unit inhibits further changes to that block for a specified time period. This prevents rapid oscillations and maintains stability while still allowing performance optimization through controlled power state adjustments.
3Ease of operation
If power management is simplified with fewer control mechanisms, then ease of operation improves, but device complexity worsens due to inability to manage multiple power domains effectively
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a power management unit as an intermediary that handles the complex coordination between multiple power domains. This unit automatically monitors and controls power states of shared functional blocks based on the operational states of other blocks, simplifying the overall system operation while effectively managing the complexity of multi-domain power coordination.
Data Source
AI summary
An IC in which a power state of a circuit in one power domain is managed based at least in part on a power state of a circuit in another power domain is disclosed. In one embodiment, an IC includes first and second functional circuit blocks in first and second power domains, respectively. A third functional block shared by the first and second is also implemented in the first power domain. A power management unit may control power states of each of the first, second, and third functional circuit blocks. The power management circuit may, when the first functional circuit block is in a sleep state, set a power state of the third functional block in accordance with that of the second functional circuit block.