Processor Temperature Sensing via Resonance Frequency
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Solution Overview
Problem
The increasing transistor density in computer processors leads to high energy dissipation and potential overheating of voltage regulators, particularly due to high current passing through integrated inductors, which can result in failure or poor performance.
Innovation Solution
A temperature-sensing circuit with a temperature-dependent resonance frequency is integrated into the voltage regulator circuit to monitor and manage the temperature of the processor, allowing for real-time temperature determination and feedback to adjust operational characteristics, thereby preventing overheating.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If transistor density is increased to improve processing power, then productivity is improved, but energy dissipation increases causing overheating of voltage regulators
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements preliminary temperature monitoring by integrating a temperature-sensing circuit within the voltage regulator that continuously measures temperature before critical overheating occurs. This allows the system to take preventive actions (such as throttling processor frequency or shutting down) before the temperature reaches dangerous levels, thus resolving the contradiction between maintaining high processing power and preventing overheating.
2Power
If high current is passed through the inductor to supply power, then productivity is improved, but local heating increases causing potential failure
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs feedback by using the temperature-sensing circuit to continuously monitor the temperature of the inductor and voltage regulator components. The measured temperature information is fed back to the processor, which then adjusts its operation accordingly. This feedback mechanism allows the system to maintain high power delivery when temperatures are safe while preventing overheating by reducing power when temperature thresholds are approached, thus resolving the contradiction between power supply capability and temperature control.
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
This solution effectively prevents overheating by allowing for precise temperature monitoring and feedback mechanisms, ensuring the voltage regulator operates within a safe temperature range, thus extending its lifespan and maintaining processor performance.
Implementation Method 1
A temperature-sensing circuit with a temperature-dependent resonance frequency is integrated into the voltage regulator circuit to monitor and manage the temperature of the processor
Implementation Method 2
The presence of such high current can cause local heating at the inductor, and possibly overheating of the inductor resulting in failure of the voltage regulator or poor performance
Data Source
AI summary
A method and device for temperature measurement of a processor is disclosed. A temperature-sensing circuit of the processor may have an associated resonance frequency, wherein the resonance frequency depends on a temperature of the temperature-sensing circuit. A temperature of the temperature-sensing circuit may be determined by determining the resonance frequency of the temperature-sensing circuit.