Standby IC Transition Logic With Negative Ground Bus
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Solution Overview
Problem
Modern integrated circuits face challenges in reducing power consumption during low power standby mode due to the need for a high power supply voltage in the transition layer between the core logic and I/O sections, which prevents a significant decrease in operating supply voltage.
Innovation Solution
A regulated negative charge pump is introduced to create a special ground bus within the transition logic layer, allowing the core logic section to operate at a reduced voltage of +0.6V, while maintaining deterministic operation by ensuring the transition logic section receives an adequate voltage drop of +0.9V, enabling power reduction without compromising functionality.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Use of energy by moving object
If the operating supply voltage of the core logic section is reduced to lower power consumption, then power consumption decreases, but the transition layer cannot maintain deterministic operation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the power supply system into separate domains: the core logic section operates at a reduced voltage (+0.6V) while the transition layer is provided with a dedicated higher voltage supply (+1.5V). This segmentation allows each section to operate at its optimal voltage level, enabling power reduction in the core logic without compromising the transition layer's deterministic operation requirements.
Solution Approach 2:
Different voltage levels are applied to different sections of the integrated circuit based on their specific operational requirements. The core logic section receives a lower voltage for power efficiency, while the transition layer receives a higher voltage to maintain signal integrity and deterministic operation. This local quality approach ensures that each section has the appropriate electrical characteristics for its function.
2Use of energy by moving object
If the supply voltage is reduced by 50% to reduce power draw, then power consumption decreases to 25% of original, but the transition layer requires relatively high power supply voltage to remain operational
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediate voltage supply system that acts as a mediator between the reduced voltage core logic and the higher voltage requirements of the transition layer. Multiple voltage domains are established with appropriate voltage translation and regulation mechanisms, allowing the core logic to operate at lower voltage while the transition layer maintains its operational voltage requirements through dedicated power supply paths.
3Use of energy by moving object
If clock frequency is reduced to 10% of normal operating rate for standby mode, then power consumption decreases, but I/O circuits must remain deterministically operational for quick response to external events
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic voltage scaling where the transition layer voltage can be adjusted based on operational mode. During standby mode, the transition layer receives reduced voltage to match the lower power state, but can quickly transition to full voltage when external events require deterministic operation. This dynamic adjustment allows the system to balance power consumption with response requirements.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This solution significantly reduces power consumption by lowering the core logic section's voltage from +1.2V to +0.6V, achieving a 75% decrease in meta-state power draw and extending battery life without affecting deterministic operation during low power standby mode.
Implementation Method 1
A regulated negative charge pump is introduced to create a special ground bus within the transition logic layer
Data Source
AI summary
In one embodiment, a core logic section of an integrated circuit is switched to be powered by a standby mode power voltage lower than a normal mode power voltage when the circuit is switched into a standby mode. The standby mode power voltage, however, is too low relative to normal ground to drive a transition logic section of the circuit. A special ground bus is provided in the transition logic section. The special ground bus is pulled down to a voltage below normal ground (i.e., a negative voltage) when the circuit is switched to the standby mode.