SCRC Switch Segmentation for Lower Peak and Leakage Current
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing electronic circuits face issues with excessive sub-threshold leak current and inefficient power consumption due to the use of SCRC switches, particularly when operating in different modes requiring varying speeds and activation levels.
Innovation Solution
Implementing separate sets of SCRC switches and a gate driver to control these switches independently, activating only the necessary sets based on operational modes and staggering their activation times to reduce power consumption.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If all SCRC switches are activated simultaneously to ensure power supply to electronic circuits, then reliability of power supply is improved, but peak power supply current increases excessively
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the SCRC switches into multiple sets (first set and second set) that are controlled independently. The gate driver activates different sets at different times based on operational modes, preventing simultaneous activation of all switches. This segmentation reduces peak current while maintaining power supply reliability through staged activation.
2Duration of action of stationary object
If SCRC switches are kept on continuously to maintain power supply to electronic circuits, then power supply continuity is improved, but steady-state power consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic control of SCRC switches by transitioning between different operational modes (first operational mode and second operational mode). The gate driver selectively activates specific sets of switches based on current operational requirements, allowing the system to adapt power consumption to actual needs rather than maintaining continuous full-power operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes operational parameters by switching between different operational modes that require different numbers of SCRC switches. In the first operational mode, more switches are activated compared to the second operational mode, allowing optimization of power consumption based on computational workload and circuit requirements.
3Adaptability or versatility
If more SCRC switches are activated to provide power to more circuit elements, then functionality of electronic circuit is improved, but power supply current consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments SCRC switches into multiple controllable sets that can be independently activated. This allows selective power distribution to different portions of the electronic circuit based on operational mode, enabling full functionality when needed while reducing power consumption during partial operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The system applies partial action by activating only the necessary number of SCRC switches for each operational mode. Rather than always activating all switches, the gate driver determines the minimal required set for current operations, reducing unnecessary power consumption while maintaining adequate functionality.
Data Source
AI summary
Sub-threshold current reduction circuit (SCRC) switches and related apparatuses and methods are disclosed. An apparatus includes a first set of SCRC switches and a second set of SCRC switches electrically connected between power supply lines and power reception lines. The first set of SCRC switches is configured to electrically connect the power supply lines to the power reception lines in the first operational mode and the second operational mode. The second set of SCRC switches is configured to electrically connect the power supply lines to the power reception lines in the first operational mode and electrically isolate the power supply lines from the power reception lines in the second operational mode. Activation of the first set of SCRC switches is staggered in time with activation of the second set of SCRC switches. The second set of SCRC switches is spaced among the first set of SCRC switches.