Voltage Regulator Circuitry for EEPROM Power Optimization
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional voltage regulator circuits in EEPROMs face high power consumption and reliability issues due to the use of clamping diodes, which age over time and affect the accuracy of erase/write cycles.
Innovation Solution
A voltage regulator circuitry comprising a current comparing unit, a logic controller, and a programmable clock unit that adjusts the clock frequency based on comparison results between the output current and reference currents to maintain the output voltage within a predetermined range, reducing power consumption and improving reliability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a clamping diode is used to regulate voltage in a charge pump circuit, then the output voltage can be maintained within a safe range, but the power consumption increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the operating parameters of the charge pump by dynamically adjusting the clock frequency based on the actual voltage level. When voltage is high, frequency is reduced; when voltage is low, frequency is increased. This dynamic parameter adjustment replaces the static clamping diode approach, maintaining voltage stability without the continuous power dissipation of the diode.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements a feedback mechanism where the output voltage is continuously monitored and used to control the clock frequency of the charge pump. The control unit adjusts the frequency based on voltage levels, creating a closed-loop system that maintains voltage stability without requiring a clamping diode, thereby eliminating the associated power consumption.
2Reliability
If a clamping diode operates under high voltage and high power conditions, then voltage regulation is achieved, but the diode ages gradually leading to increased voltage and reduced reliability
Solution Approach 1:
The feedback mechanism continuously monitors output voltage and adjusts clock frequency in real-time, preventing the voltage from reaching levels that would stress the clamping diode. This active control eliminates the need for the diode to operate under high voltage conditions, thereby extending component lifespan and maintaining reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from a static voltage regulation approach (using a fixed clamping diode) to a dynamic approach where clock frequency is continuously adjusted based on voltage levels. This dynamic operation prevents sustained high voltage stress on components, reducing aging effects and extending system life.
3Measurement precision
If the clock signal frequency is increased to improve voltage regulation response, then voltage control accuracy improves, but power consumption increases proportionally
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic clock frequency adjustment where the frequency is varied based on the actual voltage level and regulation needs. The frequency is increased only when voltage drops require correction, and reduced when voltage is stable, optimizing the trade-off between response accuracy and power consumption rather than maintaining a constantly high frequency.
Solution Approach 2:
The control unit dynamically changes the clock frequency parameter based on voltage conditions. When voltage is within the acceptable range, frequency is reduced to minimize power consumption. When voltage deviates, frequency is increased to improve regulation response. This adaptive parameter change optimizes both accuracy and energy efficiency.
Data Source
AI summary
Various embodiments provide voltage regulator circuitry and devices. An exemplary voltage regulator circuitry can include a current comparing unit configured to convert an output voltage from a charge pump to a current and to compare the current with at least two different reference currents to generate a comparison result. A logic controller can be configured to generate a clock frequency adjustment signal based on the comparison result. A programmable clock unit can be configured to adjust a frequency of a clock signal according to the clock frequency adjustment signal to send the clock signal to the charge pump. Accordingly, the disclosed voltage regulator device can have reduced power consumption and improved reliability.