Refresh Period Signal Generation Using Digital Temperature Feedback
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Solution Overview
Problem
Semiconductor memory devices face challenges in generating accurate refresh period signals for self-refresh operations, particularly at varying temperatures, leading to errors and inefficiencies, as existing technologies lack effective digital temperature information generation and control mechanisms.
Innovation Solution
A refresh period signal generator with a digital temperature information generation function that uses a combination of temperature-dependent and temperature-independent period signals, dividing these signals to produce digital temperature information, and selecting the appropriate signal for efficient and stable refresh operations, thereby preventing period signal extension at low temperatures.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If a TCSR oscillator is used to vary the refresh signal period according to temperature, then self refresh efficiency is improved, but the period becomes excessively increased at low temperatures causing self refresh operation failure
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a feedback mechanism where the period signal generator continuously monitors the actual refresh operation status and adjusts the period signal accordingly. When the refresh operation fails to execute properly (detected through operation status signals), the system feedback-controls the period signal to prevent excessive period extension, thereby maintaining reliable self refresh operation across temperature variations
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs dynamic adjustment of the refresh period signal based on real-time operation status. The period signal generator dynamically modifies the period duration according to detected refresh operation outcomes, allowing the system to adaptively respond to temperature-induced variations while preventing pathological period extensions that would cause operation failure
2Stability of the object's composition
If digital temperature information generation function is added to control refresh period, then refresh operation stability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The period signal generator is designed to perform multiple functions: it generates the refresh period signal, detects refresh operation status, and implements feedback control based on detected outcomes. By integrating these functions into a single multi-functional block, the patent achieves stable refresh operations without proportionally increasing overall device complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The patent combines the temperature information generation function with the period signal generation function into an integrated system. The temperature information generator and period signal generator work as a unified system where temperature data directly influences period signal characteristics, eliminating the need for separate independent control circuits and reducing overall system complexity
Data Source
AI summary
A refresh period signal generator with a digital temperature information generation function includes a temperature information generating part configured to generate temperature information by using a first period signal and a second period signal, a refresh period signal generating part configured to output a refresh period signal by selecting one signal having a shorter period between the first period signal and the second period signal, and an operation timing control part operating the temperature information generating part and the refresh period signal generating part at a predetermined timing.