Power Supply Control Circuit Temperature Sensor Integration

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Solution Overview

Problem

In solid-state drives (SSDs) with non-volatile semiconductor memory, the existing temperature sensing and power supply control systems require separate wiring patterns, leading to increased complexity and size due to the need for independent connections between the controller, temperature sensor, and power supply circuit, which complicates miniaturization and increases manufacturing costs.

Innovation Solution

Integration of a temperature sensor element within the power supply circuit, utilizing a serial communication standard like I2C for data transmission, allowing the controller to receive temperature data and adjust power supply voltages, thereby eliminating the need for additional signal lines and reducing the component mounting area.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If separate wiring patterns are provided for temperature sensor and power supply circuit, then independent control is achieved, but device complexity and substrate area increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveindependent controlVSAvoidwiring pattern complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The temperature sensor and power supply circuit are integrated into a single integrated circuit chip, merging previously separate components. This reduces wiring complexity on the substrate while maintaining independent control capabilities through internal circuit architecture.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The integrated circuit performs multiple functions including temperature sensing, power supply voltage generation, and serial communication, all within a single component. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate dedicated components and their associated wiring.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Ease of operation

If separate wiring patterns are provided for temperature sensor and power supply circuit, then independent control is achieved, but mounting area increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveindependent controlVSAvoidcomponent mounting area
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSArea of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

The temperature sensor and power supply circuit are merged into a single integrated circuit chip, significantly reducing the total mounting area required on the substrate compared to housing them as separate components with independent connections.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

3Adaptability or versatility

If multiple independent components are used, then functional separation is achieved, but manufacturing cost increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvefunctional separationVSAvoidmanufacturing cost
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

Integrating multiple functions into a single chip reduces the total component count, assembly steps, and testing requirements, thereby lowering manufacturing costs despite maintaining functional separation through internal circuit design.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The integrated circuit is designed with segmented functional blocks for temperature sensing, power supply, and communication that can be independently controlled and tested, maintaining functional separation benefits while achieving manufacturing efficiency through integration.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Data Source

PatentUS10679711B2Memory system including power supply control circuit and temperature sensor, and control method thereof
Publication Date: 2020.06.09 KIOXIA CORP
  • US10679711B2 patent drawing
  • US10679711B2 patent drawing
  • US10679711B2 patent drawing

AI summary

According to one embodiment, a memory system includes first, second, and third ICs. The first IC includes a non-volatile semiconductor memory. The second IC includes a controller configured to control the non-volatile semiconductor memory. The third IC is configured to receive an external first power supply voltage and generate a second power supply voltage. The third IC is connected to the second IC via an interface according to a serial communication standard. A temperature sensor element is connected to the third IC.