SCRC Switch Segmentation for Lower Sub-Threshold Power Current
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Solution Overview
Problem
Sub-threshold current reduction circuit (SCRC) switches consume excessive power when all switches are activated, especially during lower operational modes, leading to increased peak and steady-state power supply current due to their wide configuration, which is not optimized for varying operational speeds.
Innovation Solution
Implementing a system with separate sets of SCRC switches and an SCRC switch gate driver to selectively activate and deactivate different sets of switches based on operational modes, staggering the activation of switches to reduce peak power supply current and optimizing switch placement for even power distribution.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Object-affected harmful factors
If all SCRC switches are activated to reduce sub-threshold leak current, then sub-threshold leak current is reduced, but power consumption increases excessively during lower operational modes
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the SCRC switches into multiple sets (first set, second set, etc.) that can be independently controlled. Each set can be selectively activated based on operational mode, allowing the system to reduce sub-threshold leak current in active regions while keeping power consumption low in inactive regions during lower-speed modes.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements dynamic control of SCRC switch activation based on operational mode. The system transitions from static activation (all switches always on) to dynamic activation (only necessary switches on), adapting the SCRC switch configuration to match the current operational requirements and thereby optimizing power consumption.
2Power
If wide SCRC switches are used to provide sufficient power delivery, then power delivery capability is improved, but peak and steady-state power supply current increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the wide SCRC switch configuration into multiple sets that can be activated selectively. This allows the system to provide sufficient power delivery capability when needed (by activating necessary sets) while reducing the total quantity of active switches during lower-speed modes, thereby reducing both peak and steady-state power supply current.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies local quality by activating SCRC switches only in the specific regions where power delivery is currently needed. Instead of uniformly activating all switches across the entire circuit, the system selectively enables switches in local regions corresponding to active circuit blocks, optimizing the balance between power delivery and current consumption.
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.


