Time-division multiplexer with signal transition detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Time-division multiplexers face limitations in signal line reduction due to restrictions on the timing relationship between signal transitions of input signals, limiting flexibility and efficiency in multiplexing, especially in applications like CCD charge transfer units.
Innovation Solution
A time-division multiplexer design that includes signal transition detection sections, a time-division control section, and output switching sections to generate multiplexed signals, allowing for flexible timing relationships between input signals, with control pulses and a decode-clock generation section to prevent glitches and adjust phase for improved demultiplexing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Quantity of substance
If time-division multiplexing is used to reduce the number of signal lines, then the number of signal lines is reduced, but restrictions on timing relationship between signal transitions of input signals are imposed
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by detecting signal transitions in advance before multiplexing occurs. The signal transition detection sections monitor input signals and generate detection pulses that trigger the time-division control section to switch multiplexed signals accordingly, ensuring proper timing relationships are maintained proactively rather than reactively.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements feedback through detection pulses that are generated based on signal transitions and fed back to control the multiplexing process. The time-division control section uses these detection pulses to adjust the timing of control signals, creating a closed-loop system that automatically adapts to varying input signal timing relationships.
2Reliability
If strict timing relationships are enforced for multiplexing, then multiplexing reliability is improved, but the number of multiplexed signals is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by making the multiplexing system adaptable to varying timing relationships through the detection pulse mechanism. Instead of enforcing fixed timing constraints, the system dynamically adjusts control signal timing based on when signal transitions are detected, allowing flexible multiplexing of varying numbers of signals while maintaining reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the timing parameters of control signals dynamically based on detected signal transitions. The time-division control section modifies the timing of control pulses according to the detection pulses received, allowing the system to accommodate different numbers and types of input signals without compromising multiplexing reliability.
3Quantity of substance
If more signals are multiplexed to reduce signal lines further, then signal line reduction effect is improved, but timing conflicts between signals increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies segmentation by dividing the multiplexing control into separate functional sections: signal transition detection sections that monitor individual input signals, a time-division control section that manages the multiplexing logic, and output switching sections that handle signal routing. This segmented architecture simplifies timing control by localizing detection and control functions.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces detection pulses as an intermediary mechanism between input signals and the multiplexing control logic. These detection pulses serve as mediators that carry timing information from signal transitions to the time-division control section, simplifying the overall timing control complexity by providing a standardized interface.
Data Source
AI summary
Each of n signal transition detection sections detects a transition of the signal level of at least one of a first input signal or a second input signal corresponding to the signal transition detection section. A time-division control section outputs a control pulse according to a system clock when a signal transition is detected by at least one of the n signal transition detection sections. Each of n output switching sections outputs either the first or the second input signal corresponding to the output switching section as a multiplexed signal according to the control pulse.