Variable-Resistance Logic Circuit for Multi-Level Data Storage

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional logic circuits require a large number of flip-flops or latches to process multi-bit signals, leading to increased size and power consumption, especially when handling signals like 3-bit or 4-bit inputs, which complicates the circuit structure and consumes more power.

Innovation Solution

Incorporating a variable resistance device that adjusts its resistance value based on input signal voltage and current, allowing for multi-level data storage and processing without the need for multiple latches or converters, thereby simplifying the circuit structure and reducing power consumption.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Speed

If a large number of flip-flops or latches are used to process multi-bit signals, then the operating speed is improved and synchronization is achieved, but the circuit size and power consumption increase

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveoperating speedVSAvoidcircuit size

Core Design Contradiction:

SpeedVSArea of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines multiple binary data bits into a single multi-valued signal that is processed by one variable resistance device instead of requiring separate flip-flops for each bit. This merging approach reduces the number of circuit components while maintaining the ability to process multi-bit information through analog resistance states.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The invention changes the parameter representation from discrete binary states (0 or 1) to continuous analog resistance values. By using a variable resistance device that can assume multiple resistance states corresponding to different multi-bit values, the circuit achieves higher information density per component, reducing overall circuit size.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #35Parameter changes

2Reliability

If a large number of flip-flops or latches are used to process multi-bit signals, then the synchronization capability is improved, but the power consumption increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvesynchronization capabilityVSAvoidpower consumption

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSUse of energy by stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent merges the functionality of multiple synchronized flip-flops into a single variable resistance device that processes multi-valued signals. This consolidation reduces the total number of active components that consume power, while the device maintains synchronization capability through its ability to store multi-bit information in analog resistance states.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The invention replaces the mechanical/electrical switching mechanism of traditional flip-flops with an analog resistance-based storage mechanism. This substitution eliminates the need for continuous power supply to maintain binary states, as the variable resistance device can retain its resistance value without power, significantly reducing static power consumption.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

3Adaptability or versatility

If multiple latches and converters are used to handle multi-bit signals, then the data processing capability is improved, but the device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvedata processing capabilityVSAvoidcircuit structure

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The variable resistance device serves multiple functions simultaneously: it stores multi-bit data, processes analog signals, and provides synchronization capability all in a single component. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate latches, converters, and other auxiliary circuits, thereby reducing device complexity while maintaining versatile data processing capability.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

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 approach enables efficient processing of multi-bit signals with reduced circuit size and power consumption, eliminating the need for additional converters and latches, and allows the circuit to function as non-volatile flip-flops by retaining resistance values even during power cutoffs.

Implementation Method 1

at least one variable resistance device configured such that a resistance value of the at least one variable resistance device varies according to at least one selected value, the selected value being selected from among a voltage and a current of an input signal

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectVariable resistance: Electrical Resistance

Implementation Method 2

the at least one variable resistance device being configured to memorize the resistance value

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectMemory effect:

Data Source

PatentUS8604827B2Logic circuit, integrated circuit including the logic circuit, and method of operating the integrated circuit

Publication Date: 2013.12.10 SAMSUNG ELECTRONICS CO LTD

AI summary

The logic circuit includes at least one variable resistance device configured such that a resistance value of the at least one variable resistance device varies according to at least one selected value. The selected value is selected from among a voltage and a current of an input signal, and the at least one variable resistance device is configured to memorize the resistance value. The logic circuit is configured to store multi-level data by setting the memorized resistance value.