Signal Control Unit Masks Reset Signals for Power Saving
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Solution Overview
Problem
Information processing devices face higher power consumption when shifting to an operation stop state due to the input of a reset signal, whereas power saving modes consume less power without such signals, necessitating a method to prevent reset signal input during power saving states.
Innovation Solution
Incorporating a signal control unit that masks the operation stop signal to peripheral devices like eMMC, allowing the device to shift to a power saving mode with reduced power consumption by preventing reset signal input during power saving states, and a restart unit to manage device restarts based on specified conditions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Use of energy by stationary object
If a reset signal is input to peripheral devices when the information processing device shifts to a power saving state, then the operation of peripheral devices is stopped, but the power consumption is higher than when the device shifts to an electric power saving mode without the reset signal
Solution Approach 1:
A mask circuit is introduced as an intermediary component between the reset signal source and the peripheral device. This mask circuit selectively blocks the reset signal from reaching the peripheral device during power saving state transitions, while still allowing the reset signal to function normally during actual device restarts. The mask circuit thus mediates between the power management system and the peripheral device, preventing harmful reset signal input when not needed.
2Use of energy by stationary object
If a mask circuit is used to prevent reset signal input to peripheral devices during power saving state, then power consumption is reduced, but the device cannot be properly restarted if the reset signal source fails
Solution Approach 1:
A detection circuit is implemented to monitor the operational status of the reset signal source (such as the CPU). When the detection circuit identifies that the reset signal source has failed or is not functioning properly, it provides feedback to control the mask circuit to allow the reset signal to pass through. This feedback mechanism ensures that the system can adapt to failure conditions and maintain restart functionality despite the presence of the mask circuit.
Solution Approach 2:
The mask circuit's operation is made dynamic rather than static. It automatically adjusts its blocking behavior based on real-time system conditions: blocking the reset signal during normal power saving transitions, but allowing it through when a failure is detected. This dynamic adaptation resolves the contradiction between power saving and restart functionality.
Data Source
AI summary
An information processing device shifts to first and second power states and includes an output unit to output an operation stop signal, and a device to receive the operation stop signal and to shift to an operation stop state based on the operation stop signal, and to shift to an electric power saving mode where less power is consumed than in the operation stop state on condition that the operation stop signal has not been input. A signal control unit provides control that prevents the operation stop signal from being input to the device when the information processing device shifts to the second power state. The signal control unit controls the operation stop signal when a restart unit restarts the information processing device.