Semiconductor Power Node Current Management
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing semiconductor devices experience voltage drops and inherent delays in clock signals due to changes in internal currents, which are typically addressed using complex delay-locked loop (DLL) circuits, but a simpler solution is desired to stabilize internal currents and minimize voltage drops across power supply lines.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of a power management system that adjusts the load on the power source by providing internal currents as external currents to an electrical device during low power consumption periods, stabilizing the internal current and maintaining consistent voltage drops across different operational modes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a voltage regulator or delay-locked loop (DLL) circuit is used to prevent inherent delays, then timing signal stability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the power consumption fluctuation problem from the timing signal stability issue. By separating the power management function into a distinct load adjustment mechanism, the solution addresses the root cause of current fluctuations without requiring complex DLL circuits, thus maintaining timing stability while reducing device complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the load parameter dynamically based on power consumption levels. By adjusting the load on the power source according to internal power usage, the system maintains stable current flow and prevents voltage drops that would otherwise require complex timing correction circuits
2Adaptability or versatility
If internal currents are allowed to fluctuate with different internal operations, then power consumption adaptability is improved, but voltage drops and timing delays increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies a counterbalancing mechanism where an adjustable load compensates for internal current fluctuations. When internal power consumption changes, the load adjustment mechanism counteracts these changes by modifying the external load, thereby maintaining stable total current and preventing voltage drops that would affect timing signals
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements a feedback mechanism where power consumption levels are monitored and used to control load adjustments. This closed-loop approach ensures that load changes are precisely matched to internal power usage, maintaining electrical stability while allowing adaptability in power consumption patterns
3Reliability
If load adjustment is implemented to stabilize internal currents, then power management complexity increases, but timing signal stability improves
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the power management function with the existing power distribution infrastructure. By integrating load adjustment capabilities into the existing power supply path rather than adding separate complex control systems, the solution achieves current stabilization with minimal increase in overall device complexity
Data Source
AI summary
Apparatuses and methods for controlling internal current are disclosed herein, An example apparatus includes a semiconductor device including a power node. The semiconductor device receives power as an internal current, and further operates in a first mode and a second mode. The semiconductor device consumes more power in the second mode than in the first mode. The semiconductor device consumes a first portion of the internal current and provides a second portion of the internal current as an external current at the power node during the first mode. The semiconductor device consumes a third portion of the internal current that is greater than the first portion of the internal current during the second mode.