Sequencer Chaining Circuitry for Continuous Multi-Channel Timing
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional sequencers have a limited number of output channels, making it difficult to sequence multiple components in electronic systems that require more channels, especially in power sequencing where strict timing is necessary, and there is no direct way to sequence continuously from one sequencer to another.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of sequencer chaining circuitry that connects separate sequencers in a feed-forward and/or feed-backward manner to ensure proper timing during sequencing, allowing for the scaling of sequencer output requirements and enabling continuous sequencing in both forward and reverse orders.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If conventional sequencers are used with limited output channels, then device complexity is reduced, but the ability to sequence multiple components with strict timing requirements cannot be met
Solution Approach 1:
The system divides the sequencing function into multiple separate sequencer units, each handling a subset of output channels. This segmentation allows the system to scale sequencing capability by adding more units while keeping each individual unit simple and manageable.
Solution Approach 2:
Multiple sequencer units are combined through chaining circuitry that connects them in series. The chaining mechanism merges the output of one sequencer with the input of the next, creating a unified sequencing system that maintains strict timing across all channels while using multiple modular components.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple separate sequencers are employed to provide required output channels, then sequencing coverage is improved, but continuous sequencing from one sequencer to another cannot be maintained
Solution Approach 1:
The chaining circuitry implements feedback mechanisms where the output state of one sequencer unit is fed back to control the operation of the next unit. This feedback ensures that sequencing continues continuously across all units without timing disruptions, maintaining reliability while expanding output capacity.
Solution Approach 2:
Chaining circuitry acts as an intermediary between separate sequencer units, mediating the transition of sequencing signals from one unit to the next. This intermediary ensures smooth, continuous operation across the entire sequencer chain while allowing each unit to operate independently with its designated output channels.
3Adaptability or versatility
If sequencer output requirements are scaled up, then component coverage is improved, but the ability to maintain strict timing requirements becomes more difficult
Solution Approach 1:
By segmenting the large sequencing task into smaller subsets handled by individual units, each unit can maintain precise timing control over its smaller channel group. This segmentation makes it easier to achieve and verify timing precision while still covering all required components through the combined system.
Solution Approach 2:
The chaining circuitry merges multiple precision-timed sequencer units into a unified system where timing requirements are maintained across the entire chain. Each unit contributes its precisely-timed output to the overall sequence, and the chaining mechanism ensures that the combined system maintains strict timing throughout.
Data Source
AI summary
A system can include a plurality of sequencers each configured to provide a number of sequenced output signals responsive to assertion of a respective sequencer enable signal provided thereto. The system can include chaining circuitry coupled to the plurality of sequencers. The chaining circuitry can comprise logic to: responsive to assertion of a primary enable signal received thereby, assert respective sequencer enable signals provided to the plurality of sequencers in accordance with a first sequence; and responsive to deassertion of the primary enable signal, assert the respective sequencer enable signals provided to the plurality of sequencers in accordance with a second sequence.