Resonator Clock Distribution Layout for Magnetic Field Cancellation

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing clock distribution systems in CMOS and RQL circuits suffer from spurious magnetic fields that cause errors and cross-talk, leading to inefficiencies and potential interference with external circuits.

Innovation Solution

A current distribution system utilizing resonator spines and ribs configured as standing-wave resonators with odd-numbered bends, coupled with inductive lines to distribute sinusoidal currents uniformly while mitigating spurious magnetic fields.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If conventional clock distribution systems are used in CMOS and RQL circuits, then data synchronization can be achieved, but spurious magnetic fields are generated that cause errors and cross-talk

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedata synchronization reliabilityVSAvoidspurious magnetic fields
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSObject-generated harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The clock distribution network is segmented into multiple resonator ribs, each terminated with appropriate impedance matching networks. This segmentation isolates magnetic field generation to localized regions and prevents cumulative interference across the entire circuit board.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent converts the harmful spurious magnetic fields into beneficial standing wave patterns by using resonator structures tuned to the clock frequency. The magnetic fields that would normally cause interference are instead confined within resonator lobes, creating controlled electromagnetic patterns that do not radiate interference to adjacent circuits.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #22Blessing in disguise (Convert harm into benefit)

2Reliability

If clock signals are distributed across multiple circuits, then synchronization is maintained, but interference and cross-talk between circuits increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveclock synchronizationVSAvoidcross-talk interference
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

Resonator ribs act as intermediary structures between the clock source and individual circuits. Each resonator rib is designed with specific impedance characteristics that mediate the clock signal distribution, allowing synchronized clock delivery while isolating circuits from each other's electromagnetic interference through controlled impedance matching and resonator lobe confinement.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

3Productivity

If traditional clock distribution methods are used, then circuit operation is maintained, but performance and efficiency are reduced due to errors and interference

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecircuit operation efficiencyVSAvoiderror rate
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent employs resonator structures that utilize electromagnetic vibration at the clock frequency to distribute timing signals. The resonator ribs are tuned to resonate at the specific clock frequency, creating standing wave patterns that efficiently transmit the clock signal while the resonant confinement prevents energy leakage and reduces errors in circuit operation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #18Mechanical vibration

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 system effectively cancels spurious magnetic fields, ensuring uniform current distribution and reducing interference, thereby enhancing the performance and reliability of CMOS and RQL circuits.

Implementation Method 1

at least one resonator rib conductively coupled to the at least one resonator spine and arranged as a standing wave resonator with respect to the sinusoidal current

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectStanding wave resonance: Resonance

Implementation Method 2

The system effectively cancels spurious magnetic fields, ensuring uniform current distribution and reducing interference

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElectromagnetic field cancellation: Electromagnetic Induction

Data Source

PatentUS20260044176A1Current distribution system
Publication Date: 2026.02.12 NORTHROP GRUMMAN SYSTEMS CORP
  • US20260044176A1 patent drawing
  • US20260044176A1 patent drawing
  • US20260044176A1 patent drawing

AI summary

One example includes a current distribution system. The system includes at least one resonator spine that propagates a sinusoidal current. The system also includes at least one resonator rib conductively coupled to the at least one resonator spine and arranged as a standing wave resonator with respect to the sinusoidal current. Each of the at least one resonator rib can have a length from a first end corresponding to the conductive coupling to a second end that corresponds to a half wavelength of the sinusoidal current.