Pulsed Voltage Regulator Circuit for Low-Current Memory Supply
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing voltage regulator circuits for memory devices, such as phase-change memory (PCM) devices, face challenges in providing fast response times, low standby and quiescent current consumption, and high current efficiency across a wide range of supply voltages and temperatures, especially in portable and battery-operated electronic devices.
Innovation Solution
A voltage regulator circuit with a feedback network that produces pulsed control signals and threshold signals to manage the input voltage and output voltage, utilizing a charge pump circuit and pass elements to adjust the supply voltage, and integrating dynamic comparators and level shifters to optimize voltage regulation, enabling efficient operation across varying conditions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Use of energy by stationary object
If a conventional LDO regulator is used to provide constant output voltage, then voltage regulation is achieved, but standby current and quiescent current consumption are high
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs periodic pulsed control signals generated by dynamic comparators to control the pass transistor gate. Instead of continuous analog control, the regulator uses periodic pulses whose width is modulated based on the error signal, converting the continuous regulation problem into a periodic switching control problem that reduces quiescent current while maintaining regulation stability through high-frequency operation
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the traditional analog continuous control mechanism with a digital-like pulsed control system using dynamic comparators. This substitution of analog continuous operation with digital periodic sampling and pulsing reduces the static power consumption of the control circuitry while maintaining effective voltage regulation through the pulsed modulation of the pass transistor
2Adaptability or versatility
If the supply voltage varies widely (1.6V to 3.6V), then adaptability is improved, but maintaining stable output voltage becomes more difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses dynamic comparators that are clocked at different phases to continuously monitor the output voltage and generate pulsed control signals. The pass transistor gate is dynamically controlled with pulsed signals whose width and timing adapt to the instantaneous voltage conditions, enabling the system to maintain stable output across wide input voltage variations through dynamic adaptation rather than static design
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements a feedback mechanism where dynamic comparators continuously compare the output voltage with a reference and generate pulsed control signals accordingly. The feedback is realized through the clocked comparators that sample the output voltage at different phases and adjust the pass transistor gate pulses to maintain regulation, ensuring output stability despite wide input voltage variations
3Speed
If fast response time is achieved through aggressive control, then response speed is improved, but current consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent achieves fast response by using high-frequency clocked dynamic comparators that operate periodically. The comparators are enabled only during specific clock phases when regulation action is needed, rather than continuously consuming power. This periodic operation at high frequency provides fast response capability while the clocked nature ensures power is consumed only during active comparison and control phases, not continuously
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs dynamic comparators with clocked operation that can rapidly respond to voltage changes when needed. The dynamic nature of the comparators, being able to switch states quickly in response to clock edges and voltage differences, provides fast response time. The dynamic enabling and disabling of the comparator circuits based on regulation needs reduces quiescent current while maintaining fast response capability when voltage adjustments are required
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
The solution achieves fast response times, reduced current consumption, and high current efficiency, ensuring reliable voltage regulation even at low supply voltages and varying temperatures, thus enhancing the performance of memory devices in portable electronics.
Implementation Method 1
a charge pump circuit configured to produce a supply voltage higher than the input voltage
Data Source
AI summary
A voltage regulator receives an input voltage and produces a regulated output voltage. A first feedback network compares a feedback signal to a reference signal to assert/de-assert a first pulsed control signal when the reference signal is higher/lower than the feedback signal. A second feedback network compares the output voltage to a threshold signal to assert/de-assert a second control signal when the threshold signal is higher/lower than the output voltage. A charge pump is enabled if the second control signal is de-asserted and is clocked by the first pulsed control signal to produce a supply voltage higher than the input voltage. A first pass element is enabled when the second control signal is asserted and is selectively activated when the first pulsed control signal is asserted. A second pass element is selectively activated when the second control signal is de-asserted.