Resonator Spine-Rib Clock Network for Uniform Signal Amplitude
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing clock distribution systems in CMOS and RQL circuits suffer from amplitude variations and frequency mode deviations due to fabrication process variations, leading to non-uniformity and inefficiencies in clock signal propagation.
Innovation Solution
A clock distribution system utilizing a resonator spine and rib configuration with resonant transmission lines, resonator spines, and resonator ribs, where the resonator ribs are conductively coupled to resonator spines at specific intervals to propagate clock signals uniformly, suppressing amplitude variations and frequency mode deviations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional clock distribution systems are used in CMOS and RQL circuits, then clock signals can be propagated to multiple devices, but amplitude variations and frequency mode deviations occur due to fabrication process variations
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies resonant oscillation principles to clock distribution spines and ribs, causing them to vibrate at specific resonant frequencies. This mechanical vibration approach transforms the clock signal distribution into a resonant system where the spine and rib structures naturally oscillate at predetermined frequencies, suppressing amplitude variations and frequency deviations caused by fabrication variations
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the physical parameters of the distribution network by introducing resonant spines and ribs with specific lengths and configurations. By adjusting the resonant frequency parameters of these structures, the system compensates for fabrication variations and maintains uniform clock signal distribution across different devices
2Reliability
If clock signals are distributed to multiple devices, then timing synchronization is achieved, but amplitude variations occur along the distribution path
Solution Approach 1:
The resonant spine and rib structures are designed to vibrate at specific frequencies, creating standing wave patterns that maintain uniform amplitude distribution. The resonant vibration ensures that clock signals propagate with consistent amplitude along the distribution path, preventing the amplitude variations that typically occur in conventional systems
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates an equipotential-like condition for clock signal amplitude by using resonant structures that maintain constant energy distribution. The resonant spines and ribs ensure that all connected devices receive clock signals with equal amplitude, achieving uniformity analogous to equipotential surfaces in electrical fields
3Reliability
If resonator spine and rib configuration is implemented, then amplitude variations are suppressed and uniformity is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the clock distribution system into modular segments consisting of spines and ribs. Each segment is a self-contained resonant structure that can be independently designed and analyzed. This segmentation allows complex uniformity requirements to be met through repeated, standardized modular units rather than a single complex structure
Solution Approach 2:
The resonant spine and rib structures serve multiple functions simultaneously: they distribute clock signals, filter frequency deviations, suppress amplitude variations, and provide timing synchronization. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate components, thereby managing complexity while achieving multiple performance goals
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 achieves uniform amplitude and reduced amplitude variations of clock signals across the length of resonator spines, enhancing timing accuracy and reducing circuit complexity and cost by mitigating fabrication-related frequency mismatches.
Implementation Method 1
Each of the first and second sets of resonant transmission lines can have a quantity greater than one and can be configured to propagate a clock signal
Implementation Method 2
a first resonator spine conductively coupled to the first set of resonant transmission lines, such that the first resonator spine propagates the clock signal
Implementation Method 3
at least one resonator rib conductively coupled to each of the first and second resonator spines. Each of the at least one resonator rib can be arranged as a standing wave resonator to propagate the clock signal
Data Source
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AI summary
One example includes a clock distribution system. The system includes a resonator feed network comprising a plurality of resonant transmission lines that each propagate a clock signal. The system also includes at least one resonator spine. Each of the at least one resonator spine can be conductively coupled to at least one of the resonant transmission lines, such that each of the at least one resonator spine propagates the clock signal. The system further includes at least one resonator rib conductively coupled to at least one of the at least one resonator spine. Each of the at least one resonator rib can be arranged as a standing wave resonator to propagate the clock signal.