Programmable Resistance Elements for Reconfigurable Latch Circuits

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Solution Overview

Problem

Integrated circuits lack efficient programmable impedance elements that can store configuration data in a nonvolatile manner, limiting their reconfigurability and flexibility in responding to changing operational requirements.

Innovation Solution

Incorporating programmable resistance elements, such as solid-state ion conductor materials and programmable metallization cells, into latch circuits and memory cells, which can be programmed between different resistance states to store configuration data and alter circuit functions based on stored values.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If conventional memory cells are used to store configuration data, then the data can be stored nonvolatilely, but the circuits cannot be reconfigured dynamically

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvecircuit reconfigurabilityVSAvoidconfiguration data storage

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines memory cell functionality with latch circuit functionality into a single integrated structure. The memory cell's programmable resistance element is directly coupled to the latch circuit, allowing the same hardware to serve both as configuration storage and as circuit state element, enabling nonvolatile storage with reconfigurability.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent introduces dynamically reconfigurable circuit paths that can alter their connectivity based on the resistance state of programmable elements. The latch circuit can be programmed to different states, and these states can be changed dynamically to reconfigure the circuit's logical function while maintaining nonvolatile storage of the configuration.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

2Adaptability or versatility

If programmable resistance elements are added to enable reconfigurability, then circuit flexibility improves, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvecircuit reconfigurabilityVSAvoidcircuit structure

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent designs the latch circuit and memory cell to serve multiple functions simultaneously. The programmable resistance element functions as both the memory storage mechanism and the configuration control element for the latch circuit. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate dedicated configuration memory, thereby limiting the increase in device complexity.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent segments the circuit into modular latch units, each with its own programmable resistance element. This segmentation allows for scalable reconfigurability where complexity is distributed across independent modules rather than concentrated in a single complex configuration system, making the overall device complexity more manageable.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

3Manufacturing precision

If multiple programmable impedance elements are used per latch circuit, then configuration precision improves, but manufacturing complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveconfiguration data accuracyVSAvoidfabrication process

Core Design Contradiction:

Manufacturing precisionVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements different resistance states within the programmable resistance element to encode configuration data. By utilizing local variations in resistance properties at different states (e.g., high resistance vs. low resistance), the system achieves precise configuration storage without requiring multiple physically separate elements, thereby simplifying the fabrication process.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #3Local quality

Solution Approach 2:

The patent programs the resistance element to different resistance states as a means of encoding configuration information. By changing the electrical parameter (resistance) of a single element rather than adding multiple elements, the system achieves configuration precision while avoiding the manufacturing complexity of assembling and aligning multiple precise components.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #35Parameter changes

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

Enables nonvolatile storage of configuration data, allowing for reconfigurable circuits that can adapt their functions dynamically, improving the efficiency and flexibility of integrated circuit operations.

Implementation Method 1

program a resistance element (e.g., a programmable metallization cell) with a first resistance value... application of voltages between bit lines and word lines to a memory array

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectIon migration: Ion Exchange

Data Source

PatentUS8947913B1Circuits and methods having programmable impedance elements

Publication Date: 2015.02.03 GLOBALFOUNDRIES US INC

AI summary

Integrated circuit (IC) devices are disclosed that include programmable impedance elements (elements) as data storage element. In some embodiments, IC devices can include latch circuit with one or more elements that establish a function of an associated circuit. In other embodiments, IC devices can include elements arranged in a cross-point array connected to control terminals of access devices. In still other embodiments, a memory device can include a programmable address decoder. Corresponding methods are also disclosed.