Self-Training Voltage Regulator for Internal Voltage Optimization
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Solution Overview
Problem
Semiconductor memory devices require precise voltage regulation to maintain operation, but existing voltage regulators struggle with optimizing output voltage and are costly, with analog measuring apparatuses being expensive and difficult to evaluate undershoot and overshoot values effectively.
Innovation Solution
A voltage regulator with a voltage regulation unit and optimization control unit that adjusts bias current, drivability, and output capacitance using control signals, allowing for real-time optimization and digital output measurement, enabling self-training and reduced costs.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If analog measuring apparatuses are used to evaluate voltage regulators, then measurement capability is provided, but cost increases and evaluation becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a digital copy of the voltage regulator's output characteristics by generating test patterns and capturing output signals through a digital interface. Instead of using expensive analog measuring apparatuses, the system digitally replicates the evaluation process by converting the voltage regulator's analog output into digital domain through pattern generation and signal capture, thereby reducing cost while maintaining measurement capability
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical/analog measuring system with a digital evaluation system. The voltage regulator is evaluated by generating digital test patterns, capturing output signals through digital interfaces, and processing the data digitally. This substitution of analog measurement with digital measurement methods reduces cost and simplifies the evaluation process while maintaining measurement precision
2Reliability
If optimization processes are performed externally, then voltage regulation can be tested, but time and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements self-service by integrating the optimization functionality directly into the voltage regulator circuit itself. The voltage regulator contains internal logic that automatically performs optimization processes without requiring external testing equipment or manual intervention. The system generates its own test patterns, captures its own output signals, and adjusts its parameters autonomously, thereby eliminating the need for external optimization processes and reducing both time and cost
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges the optimization function with the voltage regulator circuit by integrating the test pattern generation, signal capture, and parameter adjustment logic within the same device. This consolidation of multiple functions (voltage regulation, test generation, signal capture, and optimization) into a single integrated system eliminates the need for separate external optimization equipment and processes, thereby reducing time and cost while maintaining reliability
Data Source
AI summary
A voltage regulator includes a voltage regulation unit that regulates an external power supply voltage and outputs an internal voltage, and an optimization control unit that adjusts a bias current, drivability, and output capacitance of the voltage regulation unit in response to a training enable signal and optimizes the internal voltage to a predetermined value.