Flip-Flop Standard Cell Layout for Shared Bit Write and Hold
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Solution Overview
Problem
In electronic design automation for integrated circuits, the use of standard flip flop cells in memory arrays often requires additional circuitry for bit write and hold functions, leading to increased power usage and space requirements due to the need for external clock and scan enable signal generation in each cell, which limits area density and efficiency.
Innovation Solution
A flip flop standard cell is designed with integrated bit write and hold functionalities, sharing clock and scan enable signals among cells, reducing the need for external circuitry and optimizing transistor usage, thereby enhancing cell utilization and power efficiency.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If additional external circuitry is added to each flip flop cell for bit write and hold functions, then the functionality is improved, but the area density and power efficiency deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the bit write circuit and hold circuit functionalities within the existing flip flop cell structure, merging multiple functions into a single integrated unit. This eliminates the need for separate external circuitry for each cell, thereby reducing cell area while maintaining full functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The flip flop cell is designed to perform multiple functions (data latching, bit write, and hold operations) within a single universal structure. This multi-functional design allows the same cell to handle various operations without requiring additional dedicated circuitry for each function, optimizing area utilization.
2Adaptability or versatility
If additional external circuitry is added to each flip flop cell for bit write and hold functions, then the functionality is improved, but the power consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
By merging the bit write and hold circuits into the flip flop cell structure, the patent reduces the total number of separate circuits in the memory array. This consolidation reduces overall power consumption by eliminating redundant circuitry and reducing the total transistor count required across the array.
3Adaptability or versatility
If more transistors are used per cell for external signal generation, then the functionality is improved, but the cell utilization efficiency deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates signal generation capabilities directly into the flip flop cell, merging multiple functions (data input, clocking, bit write control, and hold control) into a single compact structure. This reduces the number of transistors required per cell compared to having separate external circuitry, thereby improving cell utilization efficiency.
4Adaptability or versatility
If external clock and scan enable signal generation is implemented in each cell, then the functionality is improved, but the area density deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines clock signal reception and scan enable signal reception within the flip flop cell structure, eliminating the need for separate external signal generation circuitry. This integration reduces the area required per cell while maintaining full signal generation and control capabilities.
Data Source
AI summary
A flip flop standard cell that includes a data input terminal configured to receive a data signal, clock input terminal configured to receive a clock signal, a data output terminal, and a latch. A bit write circuit is configured to receive a bit write signal. The received data signal is latched and provided at the output terminal in response to the bit write signal and the clock signal. A hold circuit is configured to receive a hold signal, and the received data signal is not latched and provided at the data output terminal in response to the hold signal and the clock signal.