Sensor system, switch mode power supply and electronic device

Abstract

Embodiments of the present disclosure relate to a sensor system, a switched mode power supply, and an electronic device. A sensor system is provided, which comprises a sensor capable of measuring a physical quantity. Further, the sensor system comprises a capacitive device for storing electrical energy. The capacitive device is coupled to the sensor. In addition, the sensor system comprises a power input for connecting the sensor system to a switched mode power supply and a switching circuit capable of selectively connecting the capacitive device to the power input. The sensor system comprises a control circuit configured to control the switching circuit to connect the capacitive device to the power input in order to charge the capacitive device when the sensor does not measure the physical quantity. The control circuit is further configured to control the switching circuit to disconnect the capacitive device from the power input in order to exclusively power the sensor by the capacitive device when the sensor measures the physical quantity.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to intelligent power supplies for sensors. In particular, it relates to examples of sensor systems, switch-mode power supplies (SMPS), and electronic devices. Background Technology

[0002] Modern electronic devices use various sensors to measure a wide range of physical quantities. For example, some electronic devices use radar sensors to measure distance or speed. Radar sensors in consumer electronics should be as inexpensive as possible. However, radar sensors require low-noise voltage power supplies. Furthermore, mobile applications demand high power efficiency.

[0003] Conventional power supplies use SMPS voltage and employ low-dropout (LDO) regulators to generate a low-noise voltage that is decoupled from SMPS noise. On one hand, SMPS generates excessive noise for common sensors, making it unsuitable for direct sensor power. On the other hand, LDO regulators are not highly efficient. Summary of the Invention

[0004] Therefore, an improved power supply for the sensor may be required.

[0005] The above requirements can be met by the subject matter of the appended claims.

[0006] One example relates to a sensor system. The sensor system includes a sensor capable of measuring a physical quantity. Furthermore, the sensor system includes a capacitor for storing electrical energy. The capacitor is coupled to the sensor. Additionally, the sensor system includes: a power input for connecting the sensor system to a switch-mode power supply; and a switching circuit capable of selectively connecting the capacitor to the power input. The sensor system includes control circuitry configured to control the switching circuitry to connect the capacitor to the power input to charge the capacitor when the sensor is not measuring a physical quantity. The control circuitry is also configured to control the switching circuitry to disconnect the capacitor from the power input when the sensor is measuring a physical quantity, so that the capacitor exclusively powers the sensor when the sensor is measuring a physical quantity.

[0007] Another example relates to a method for operating a sensor system including a sensor capable of measuring a physical quantity, a capacitor coupled to the sensor for storing electrical energy, a power input for connecting the sensor system to an SMPS (Sensitive Mode Power Supply), and a switching circuit capable of selectively connecting the capacitor to the power input. The method includes connecting the capacitor to the power input to charge the capacitor when the sensor is not measuring a physical quantity. Additionally, when the sensor is measuring a physical quantity, the capacitor is disconnected from the power input so that the capacitor exclusively powers the sensor when the sensor is measuring a physical quantity.

[0008] Another example involves an electronic device that includes a sensor system as described herein, and an SMPS connected to the power input of the sensor system.

[0009] One example relates to a Smart Power Supply System (SMPS) for a sensor. The SMPS includes a power output for connecting to and supplying electrical energy to the sensor. Furthermore, the SMPS includes a capacitor capable of storing electrical energy. This capacitor is coupled to the power output. Additionally, the SMPS includes a power circuit arrangement that includes a switching regulator for providing DC power. The SMPS includes a switching circuit capable of selectively connecting the capacitor to the power circuit arrangement. Furthermore, the SMPS includes control circuitry configured to receive a status signal indicating whether the sensor is measuring a physical quantity. If the status signal indicates that the sensor is not measuring a physical quantity, the control circuitry is configured to control the switching circuitry to connect the capacitor to the power circuit arrangement to charge the capacitor. If the status signal indicates that the sensor is measuring a physical quantity, the control circuitry is configured to control the switching circuitry to disconnect the capacitor from the power circuit, such that when the sensor is measuring a physical quantity, the electrical energy supplied to the sensor by the power output is exclusively derived from the capacitor.

[0010] Another example relates to a method of operating a SMPS for a sensor, wherein the SMPS includes a power output for connecting to and supplying electrical power to the sensor, a capacitor coupled to the power output capable of storing electrical energy, a power circuit arrangement including a switching regulator for providing DC power, and a switching circuit capable of selectively connecting the capacitor to the power circuit arrangement. The method includes receiving a status signal indicating whether the sensor is measuring a physical quantity. Furthermore, if the status signal indicates that the sensor is not measuring a physical quantity, the method includes controlling the switching circuit to connect the capacitor to the power circuit arrangement to charge the capacitor. If the status signal indicates that the sensor is measuring a physical quantity, the method includes controlling the switching circuit to disconnect the capacitor from the power circuit arrangement such that when the sensor is measuring a physical quantity, the electrical energy supplied to the sensor by the power output is exclusively derived from the capacitor.

[0011] Another example involves a sensor system that includes an SMPS as described herein and a sensor capable of measuring a physical quantity, wherein the sensor is connected to a power supply output.

[0012] Another example relates to an electronic device that includes an SMPS as described herein and a sensor capable of measuring a physical quantity, wherein the sensor is connected to a power output. Attached Figure Description

[0013] The following will describe some examples of the apparatus and / or method by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0014] Figure 1 An example of a sensor system is shown.

[0015] Figure 2 An example power supply voltage drop is shown;

[0016] Figure 3 An example of an electronic device is shown;

[0017] Figure 4 A flowchart illustrating an example of a method for operating a sensor system is shown;

[0018] Figure 5 An example of an SMPS used for a sensor is shown.

[0019] Figure 6 Another example of an electronic device is shown; and

[0020] Figure 7 A flowchart illustrating an example of operating the SMPS method for a sensor is shown. Detailed Implementation

[0021] The various examples will now be described more fully with reference to the accompanying drawings, which show some examples. In the drawings, the thickness of lines, layers, and / or regions may be magnified for clarity.

[0022] Accordingly, while other examples can have various modifications and alternative forms, some specific examples are shown in the accompanying drawings and will be described in detail thereafter. However, this detailed description does not limit the other examples to the specific forms described. Other examples can cover all modifications, equivalents, and alternative forms that fall within the scope of this disclosure. Throughout the description of the drawings, the same or similar reference numerals refer to the same or similar elements that, when providing the same or similar function, can be implemented in the same or similar form.

[0023] It is understood that when an element is referred to as being "connected" or "coupled" to another element, these elements can be directly connected or coupled via one or more intermediary elements. If two elements A and B are combined using "or," it should be understood that all possible combinations are disclosed (e.g., only A, only B, and A and B, unless otherwise expressly or implicitly defined). Alternative terms for the same combination are "at least one of A and B" or "A and / or B." Referring to the above, the same applies to combinations of more than two elements.

[0024] The terminology used to describe particular examples in this document is not intended to limit other examples. Whenever the singular forms such as “a,” “an,” and “the” are used without express or implied requirement for the use of a single element, other examples may use multiple elements to achieve the same functionality. Similarly, when a function is described as being achieved by using multiple elements, other examples may use a single element or processing entity to achieve the same functionality. It should be further understood that the terms “comprising,” “including,” etc., when used, describe the presence of features, entities, steps, operations, processes, actions, elements, and / or components, but do not exclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, entities, steps, operations, processes, actions, elements, components, and / or any combination thereof.

[0025] Unless otherwise defined, all terms (including technical and scientific terms) in this document are used in their ordinary sense in the field to which the example to which they belong.

[0026] Figure 1 A sensor system 100 for measuring (sensing) physical quantities is shown. The sensor system 100 includes a sensor 110 capable of measuring (sensing) physical quantities. The physical quantity can be any property of a material (solid, liquid, or gas) that can be quantified by measurement. For example, the physical quantity can be distance, velocity, electromagnetic field strength, etc. The sensor 110 includes corresponding measurement circuitry for measuring the physical quantity.

[0027] In addition, the sensor system 100 includes a capacitor 120 for storing electrical energy. The capacitor 120 is coupled to the sensor 110. The capacitor 120 serves as a power source for the sensor 110. The capacitor 120 displays a capacitance C. buffer .like Figure 1 As shown, capacitor 120 may include a single capacitor 121 for storing electrical energy. However, it should be noted that capacitor 120 is not limited thereto. Generally, capacitor 120 may include any number of N (N≥1) capacitive elements for storing electrical energy. One or more capacitive elements of capacitor 120 may be connected in parallel and / or in series coupled to provide the desired (target) capacitance C. buffer .

[0028] Additionally, the sensor system 100 includes a power input 130 for connecting the sensor system 100 to the SMPS. For example... Figure 1As shown, power input 130 may include two nodes (terminals) 131 and 132 for connecting to corresponding nodes (terminals) of the SMPS. However, it should be noted that power input 130 is not limited to this. Generally, power input 130 may include any number of M nodes (M≥1) for connecting to the SMPS. When sensor system 100 is connected to the SMPS, the SMPS can provide electrical energy to sensor system 100, for example, the SMPS can provide electrical energy to power input 130 of sensor circuit 100.

[0029] A switching circuit 140 is coupled between capacitor 120 and power input 130. The switching circuit 140 can selectively connect or disconnect capacitor 120 from power input 130. Figure 1 In the example, the switching circuit 140 includes a single switch 141 for selectively connecting or disconnecting the capacitor element 120 from the power input 130. However, it should be noted that the switching circuit 140 is not limited to this. Generally, the switching circuit 140 may include any number of K switches (K≥1) for connecting or disconnecting the capacitor element 120 from the power input 130. The switching circuit 140 may be a corresponding semiconductor switch, such as a transistor (e.g., a field-effect transistor, FET; a metal-oxide-semiconductor field-effect transistor, MOSFET, etc.), a bidirectional triode thyristor (also known as a TRIAC; for example, for high-voltage applications), a relay, or a solid-state relay (e.g., for low-frequency duty cycles).

[0030] from Figure 1 It can be seen that when capacitor 120 is disconnected (decoupled) from SMPS / power input 130 via switching circuit 140, sensor 110 is disconnected (decoupled) from SMPS / power input 130.

[0031] The operation of the switching circuit 140 is controlled by the control circuit 150. For example, the control circuit 150 may be a single dedicated processor, a single shared processor, or multiple separate processors, some or all of which may share a digital signal processor (DSP) hardware, an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC), or a field-programmable gate array (FPGA). The control circuit 150 may optionally be coupled to, for example, a read-only memory (ROM), random access memory (RAM), and / or non-volatile memory for storing software (e.g., control software for the control circuit 150).

[0032] Control circuit 150 is configured to connect (couple) capacitor 120 to power input 130 when sensor 110 is not measuring a physical quantity, so as to charge capacitor 120 with electrical energy supplied by SMPS. Furthermore, control circuit 150 is configured to disconnect (decouple) capacitor 120 from power input 130 when sensor 120 is measuring a physical quantity, so that the electrical energy stored in capacitor 120 can be used to exclusively power sensor 110 when sensor 110 is measuring a physical quantity.

[0033] In other words, when sensor 110 is not measuring a physical quantity, sensor 110 is only connected to the SMPS. In other words, when sensor 110 is measuring a physical quantity, sensor 110 is disconnected from the SMPS. Since sensor 110 is exclusively powered by the electrical energy stored in capacitor 120 when measuring a physical quantity, noise from the SMPS does not affect sensor 110. Sensor circuit 100 is essentially silent when sensor 110 is measuring a physical quantity. Therefore, sensor circuit 100 can exhibit a high power supply rejection ratio (PSRR) when sensor 110 is measuring a physical quantity. Capacitor 120 acts as a power buffer for sensor 110. Compared to conventional methods, sensor circuit 100 can use the SMPS to power the sensor without an LDO regulator. Compared to conventional methods using LDO regulators, sensor circuit 100 may have higher power efficiency, meeting the power efficiency requirements for use in mobile applications (devices).

[0034] According to some examples, control circuitry 150 can be configured to receive a status signal 151 indicating whether the sensor is (currently) measuring a physical quantity. Status signal 151 can be provided, for example, by the sensor 110 itself or by another entity (circuit device) controlling the operation of sensor 110. For example, when sensor 110 is measuring a physical quantity, the status signal can be displayed as a first logic level signal (e.g., logic high or logic 1), while when sensor 110 is not measuring a physical quantity, the status signal can be displayed as a different second logic level signal (e.g., logic low or logic 0).

[0035] Sensor 110 can be, for example, duty cycle-dependent. That is, sensor 110 can be activated during a portion of the time period used to measure a physical quantity and deactivated for the remainder of the time period, such that sensor 110 does not measure a physical quantity during the remaining time period. Accordingly, status signal 151 can indicate that when sensor 110 is activated, sensor 110 is measuring a physical quantity, and when sensor 110 is deactivated, sensor 110 is not measuring a physical quantity.

[0036] In some examples, when sensor 110 is activated, it can only measure physical quantities intermittently. For example, sensor 110 can be idle between two consecutive measurements of a physical quantity. Accordingly, status signal 151 can indicate that sensor 110 did not measure a physical quantity during the time period between two consecutive measurements of a physical quantity.

[0037] Sensor 110 can be, for example, a radar sensor capable of performing radar measurements. Radar sensors are highly susceptible to noise. The proposed sensor circuit 100 can protect the radar sensor from SMPS noise, allowing it to be powered via conventional SMPS without compromising radar performance.

[0038] For example, in mobile applications, radar sensors typically have a duty cycle. The peak current consumption of a radar sensor can be, for example, below 200mA. For instance, a radar sensor can be activated in less than 100μs (operating in on mode). When the radar sensor is deactivated (operating in off mode), its power consumption can be assumed to be close to zero.

[0039] According to the proposed technology, the capacitor 120 allows for buffering of the electrical energy supplied to the radar sensor by the SMPS. For example, since the radar sensor is less susceptible to SMPS noise during off-peak hours, the SMPS can charge the capacitor 120 during this period. During radar sensor on-peak hours, the power supply to the SMPS is cut off by the switching circuit 140, so that all the electrical energy required for radar sensor operation is supplied by the capacitor 120. During radar sensor on-peak hours, since there is no connection to the outside of the sensor system 100 (e.g., the SMPS), the proposed circuit is essentially silent and exhibits extremely high PSRR.

[0040] As generalized above for any sensor, a radar sensor can only perform radar measurements intermittently when activated. For example, because only low speeds need to be measured, the time interval between consecutive radio frequency (RF) transmissions (e.g., linear frequency modulated pulses) in a frame can be long. Accordingly, the radar sensor performs radar measurements only within a portion of a selected measurement frame. During the time interval between a previous RF transmission and the current RF transmission, capacitor 120 can buffer the energy required for a single RF transmission. Accordingly, during the time interval between two consecutive RF transmissions by the radar sensor, switching circuit 140 can be controlled to connect capacitor 120 to power input 130 (and thus to the SMPS), and during RF transmissions by the radar sensor, capacitor 120 can be disconnected from power input 130. For example, status signal 151 can indicate that the radar sensor did not perform radar measurements during the time interval between two consecutive RF transmissions (e.g., linear frequency modulated pulses) by the radar sensor.

[0041] Figure 2 It is also shown that different capacitances C are applied to capacitor element 120. buffer Three exemplary power supply voltage drops over time are provided by capacitor element 210. Figure 2 In the example, assume that sensor 110 requires a supply voltage of 1.8V and can operate at a maximum supply voltage of V. max =1.89V and minimum supply voltage V min It operates under conditions of 1.71V. Furthermore, it is assumed that sensor 110 continuously draws a current of 100mA.

[0042] Curve 210 represents the capacitance C. buffer The voltage drop across the power supply over time when the capacitance is 10μF. Curve 220 represents the capacitance C. buffer The voltage drop across the power supply over time when the capacitance is 100μF. Curve 230 represents the capacitance C. buffer The voltage drop of the power supply over time when the voltage is 1000μF.

[0043] from Figure 2 It can be seen that the power supply voltage is at capacitor C buffer =10μF, maintain for 18μs, at capacitor C buffer =100μF, maintain for 180μs, at capacitor C buffer It maintains its value for a longer period within the required range of 1000μF.

[0044] Therefore, capacitor C buffer =100μF is sufficient to power a typical sensor. However, it should be noted that larger capacitors (e.g., about 500μF) can also be used to power a sensor 110 that exhibits higher current consumption, or for powering the sensor 110 over a longer period of time. Similarly, smaller capacitors can be used for sensors with lower power consumption.

[0045] Figure 3 An exemplary electronic device 300 using sensor circuitry 100 according to the proposed concept is shown. Electronic device 300 includes an SMPS 320 connected to a power input 130 of sensor system 100. SMPS 320 receives power from a power supply 330 (e.g., DC or AC power) and supplies DC power to power input 130 of sensor system 100. Electronic device 300 enables the efficient supply of electrical power to sensor 110.

[0046] Electronic device 300 can be a fixed or mobile device. Similarly, power supply 330 can be coupled to the power grid or be a battery.

[0047] For example, electronic device 300 can be a mobile device, such as a smartphone, tablet computer, or other consumer product. For example, if sensor 110 is a radar sensor, the proposed technology enables radar functionality for mobile devices because the limited power of the mobile device's battery can efficiently power the radar sensor without compromising radar performance.

[0048] To further illustrate the above power supply technology, Figure 4 A flowchart of a method 400 for operating a sensor system is shown. As described above, the sensor system includes a sensor capable of measuring a physical quantity, a capacitor coupled to the sensor for storing electrical energy, a power input for connecting the sensor system to an SMPS, and a switching circuit capable of selectively connecting the capacitor to the power input. Method 400 includes a control switching circuit 402 that connects the capacitor to the power circuit to charge the capacitor when the sensor is not measuring a physical quantity. Additionally, method 400 includes a control switching circuit 404 that disconnects the capacitor from the power circuit when the sensor is measuring a physical quantity, so that the capacitor exclusively powers the sensor when the sensor is measuring a physical quantity.

[0049] Method 400 allows the sensor to be disconnected from the SMPS while the sensor is measuring a physical quantity, so that the noise of the SMPS does not affect the sensor.

[0050] Similar to the above, the switching circuit is controlled based on a state signal indicating whether the sensor is measuring a physical quantity. Therefore, in some examples, method 400 may also include receiving a state signal 406.

[0051] Further details and aspects of method 400, in conjunction with the proposed techniques and one or more of the above-described example embodiments (e.g. Figures 1 to 3 This will be explained. Method 400 may include one or more additional optional features corresponding to one or more aspects of the proposed technology or one or more of the examples above.

[0052] In the aforementioned example, a conventional SMPS was used, and the switching function was implemented externally to the SMPS. According to the proposed technology, the switching function could also be provided internally by the SMPS itself, as will be discussed in the following references. Figures 5 to 7 As stated above.

[0053] Figure 5 An example of an SMPS500 for a sensor capable of measuring (sensing) physical quantities is shown. The SMPS500 includes a power output 530 for connecting to and supplying electrical power (power) to the sensor. Figure 5As shown, the power output 530 may include two nodes (terminals) 531 and 532 for connecting to the corresponding node (terminal) of the sensor. However, it should be noted that the power output 530 is not limited to this. Generally, the power output 530 may contain any number R (R≥1) nodes for connecting to the sensor.

[0054] In addition, the SMPS500 includes a capacitor 520 for storing electrical energy. The capacitor 520 is coupled to a power output 530. The capacitor 520 displays a capacitance C. buffer And it can be implemented in a manner similar to the capacitor 120 described above.

[0055] Additionally, the SMPS 500 includes a power supply circuit 510 for providing DC power (e.g., a DC power signal). The SMPS includes a power input 560 for connecting to a power supply (e.g., a DC or AC power supply). The power supply circuit 510 is configured to receive electrical energy from the power supply via the power input 560 and convert it into a voltage that displays a desired (target) value. The power supply circuit 510 includes a switching regulator for power conversion and may include other circuitry such as an input rectifier, a filter, an output transformer, an output rectifier, etc.

[0056] A switching circuit 540 is coupled between the capacitor 520 and the power supply circuit 510. The switching circuit 540 can selectively connect and disconnect the capacitor 520 from the power supply circuit 510. Figure 5 In the example, the switching circuit 540 includes a single switch 541 for selectively connecting and disconnecting the capacitor 520 from the power supply circuit 510. However, it should be noted that the power switching circuit 540 is not limited to this. Generally, the switching circuit 540 may include any number T (T≥1) switches for connecting and disconnecting the capacitor 520 from the power supply circuit 510. The switching circuit 540 can be implemented in a manner similar to the switching circuit 140 described above.

[0057] from Figure 5 It can be seen that when the capacitor 520 is disconnected from the power supply circuit device 510 via the switching circuit 540 (decoupling), the power output 530 and the sensor are therefore disconnected from the power supply circuit device 510 (decoupling).

[0058] The operation of the switching circuit 540 is controlled by the control circuit 550. The control circuit 550 can be implemented in a manner similar to that of the control circuit 150 described above.

[0059] The control circuit 550 receives a status signal 551 indicating whether the sensor is measuring a physical quantity. Similarly, the status signal 551 may be provided by the sensor itself or by another entity (circuit device) that controls the operation of the sensor.

[0060] If the status signal indicates that the sensor is not measuring a physical quantity, the control circuit 550 is configured to control the switching circuit 540 to connect the capacitor 520 to the power supply circuit 510 so that the DC power supplied (output) by the power supply circuit 510 charges the capacitor 520. If the status signal indicates that the sensor is measuring a physical quantity, the control circuit 550 is configured to control the switching circuit 540 to disconnect the capacitor 520 from the power supply circuit 510, such that when the sensor is measuring a physical quantity, the electrical energy supplied to the sensor by the power supply output 530 is exclusively derived from the capacitor 520.

[0061] In other words, the sensor is only connected to the power supply circuit 510 when it is not measuring a physical quantity; conversely, the sensor is disconnected from the power supply circuit 510 when it is measuring a physical quantity. Since the sensor is exclusively powered by the electrical energy stored in the capacitor 520 when it is measuring a physical quantity, noise from the power supply circuit 510 will not affect the sensor. The capacitor 520 acts as a power buffer for the sensor. Compared to conventional SMPSs, the SMPS 500 can be directly coupled to the sensor without an LDO regulator. Therefore, the sensor system consisting of the SMPS 500 and the sensor can meet the power efficiency requirements used in mobile applications (devices).

[0062] Figure 6 An exemplary electronic device 600 using an SMPS500 is shown, based on the proposed concept. The electronic device 600 includes a sensor 610 connected to a power output 530 of the SMPS500. The sensor 610 and the SMPS500 form a sensor system 630.

[0063] The power supply circuit 510 of the SMPS500 receives electrical energy from the power supply 620 (e.g., DC or AC power) via the power input 560 and provides DC power to charge the capacitors 520 of the SMPS500. The SMPS500 enables the efficient provision of power to the sensor 610.

[0064] Electronic device 600 can be a fixed or mobile device. Similarly, power supply 620 can be coupled to the power grid or can be a battery.

[0065] For example, electronic device 600 can be a mobile device, such as a smartphone, tablet computer, or other consumer product. If sensor 610 is, for example, a radar sensor, the proposed technology enables radar functionality for mobile devices because the limited power of the mobile device's battery can efficiently power the radar sensor without compromising radar performance.

[0066] To further illustrate the above SMPS technology, Figure 7 A flowchart of a method 400 for operating a sensor SMPS is shown. As described above, the SMPS includes a power output for connecting to and supplying electrical energy to the sensor, a capacitor coupled to the power output capable of storing electrical energy, a power circuit arrangement including a switching regulator for providing DC power, and a switching circuit capable of selectively connecting the capacitor to the power circuit arrangement. Method 700 includes receiving a status signal indicating whether the sensor is measuring a physical quantity. Furthermore, if the status signal indicates that the sensor is not measuring a physical quantity, method 700 includes controlling switching circuit 704 to connect the capacitor to the power circuit arrangement to charge the capacitor. If the status signal indicates that the sensor is measuring a physical quantity, method 700 includes controlling switching circuit 706 to disconnect the capacitor from the power circuit arrangement so that when the sensor is measuring a physical quantity, the electrical energy supplied to the sensor by the power output is exclusively derived from the capacitor.

[0067] Method 700 allows the sensor to be disconnected from the SMPS power supply circuitry while the sensor is measuring a physical quantity, so that noise from the power supply circuitry does not affect the sensor.

[0068] Further details and aspects of method 700, in conjunction with the proposed technology and one or more of the above-described example embodiments (e.g. Figure 5 and Figure 6 This will be explained. Method 700 may include one or more additional optional features corresponding to one or more aspects of the proposed technology or one or more of the examples above.

[0069] The examples described in this article can be summarized as follows:

[0070] Some examples relate to sensor systems. These sensor systems include sensors capable of measuring physical quantities. Furthermore, the sensor system includes a capacitor for storing electrical energy. The capacitor is coupled to the sensor. Additionally, the sensor system includes: a power input for connecting the sensor system to an SMPS; and a switching circuit capable of selectively connecting the capacitor to the power input. The sensor system includes control circuitry configured to control the switching circuitry to connect the capacitor to the power input to charge the capacitor when the sensor is not measuring a physical quantity. The control circuitry is also configured to control the switching circuitry to disconnect the capacitor from the power input when the sensor is measuring a physical quantity, so that the capacitor exclusively powers the sensor when the sensor is measuring a physical quantity.

[0071] In some examples, the control circuit is configured to receive a status signal indicating whether a sensor is measuring a physical quantity, wherein the control circuit is configured to control the switching circuit based on the status signal.

[0072] According to some examples, the sensor is disconnected from the SMPS when the capacitor is disconnected from the SMPS via a switching circuit.

[0073] In some examples, the sensor is a radar sensor capable of performing radar measurements.

[0074] According to some examples, the status signal indicates that the radar sensor did not perform radar measurements during the time interval between two consecutive radio frequency transmissions by the radar sensor.

[0075] Other examples relate to methods of operating a sensor system including a sensor capable of measuring a physical quantity, a capacitor coupled to the sensor for storing electrical energy, a power input for connecting the sensor system to an SMPS (Sensitive Mode Power Supply), and a switching circuit capable of selectively connecting the capacitor to the power input. The method includes controlling the switching circuit to connect the capacitor to the power input to charge the capacitor when the sensor is not measuring a physical quantity. Additionally, when the sensor is measuring a physical quantity, controlling the switching circuit to disconnect the capacitor from the power input so that the capacitor exclusively powers the sensor when the sensor is measuring a physical quantity.

[0076] In some examples, the method also includes receiving a status signal indicating whether the sensor is measuring a physical quantity, and wherein the switching circuit is controlled based on the status signal.

[0077] According to some examples, the sensor is disconnected from the SMPS when the capacitor is disconnected from the SMPS via a switching circuit.

[0078] In some examples, the sensor is a radar sensor capable of performing radar measurements.

[0079] According to some examples, the status signal indicates that the radar sensor did not perform radar measurements during the time period between two consecutive radio frequency transmissions by the radar sensor.

[0080] Other examples relate to apparatus for operating a sensor system, which includes a sensor capable of measuring a physical quantity, a capacitor coupled to the sensor for storing electrical energy, a power input for connecting the sensor system to an SMPS (Sensitive Mode Power Supply), and a switching circuit capable of selectively connecting the capacitor to the power input. The apparatus includes means for controlling the switching circuit to connect the capacitor to the power input to charge the capacitor when the sensor is not measuring a physical quantity. Additionally, the apparatus includes means for controlling the switching circuit to disconnect the capacitor from the power input when the sensor is measuring a physical quantity, so that the capacitor exclusively powers the sensor when the sensor is measuring a physical quantity.

[0081] Other examples involve electronic devices, including the sensor system described herein and the SMPS connected to the power input of the sensor system.

[0082] In some examples, the electronic device may be a mobile device, wherein the mobile device includes a battery that serves as a power source for the SMPS.

[0083] Other examples relate to a Smart Power Supply System (SMPS) for a sensor. The SMPS includes a power output for connecting to and supplying electrical energy to the sensor. Furthermore, the SMPS includes a capacitor capable of storing electrical energy. The capacitor is coupled to the power output. Additionally, the SMPS includes a power circuit arrangement including a switching regulator for providing DC power. The SMPS includes a switching circuit capable of selectively connecting the capacitor to the power circuit arrangement. Additionally, the SMPS includes control circuitry configured to receive a status signal indicating whether the sensor is measuring a physical quantity. If the status signal indicates that the sensor is not measuring a physical quantity, the control circuitry is configured to control the switching circuitry to connect the capacitor to the power circuit arrangement to charge the capacitor. If the status signal indicates that the sensor is measuring a physical quantity, the control circuitry is configured to control the switching circuitry to disconnect the capacitor from the power circuit, such that when the sensor is measuring a physical quantity, the electrical energy supplied to the sensor by the power output is exclusively derived from the capacitor.

[0084] According to some examples, when the capacitor is disconnected from the power supply circuit via a switching circuit, the power supply circuit is disconnected from the power supply output.

[0085] Other examples relate to methods for operating a SMPS (Smart Module Power Supply) for a sensor, wherein the SMPS includes a power output for connecting to and supplying electrical energy to the sensor, a capacitor capable of storing electrical energy coupled to the power output, a power circuit arrangement including a switching regulator for providing DC power, and a switching circuit capable of selectively connecting the capacitor to the power circuit arrangement. The method includes receiving a status signal indicating whether the sensor is measuring a physical quantity. Furthermore, if the status signal indicates that the sensor is not measuring a physical quantity, the method includes controlling the switching circuit to connect the capacitor to the power circuit arrangement to charge the capacitor. If the status signal indicates that the sensor is measuring a physical quantity, the method includes controlling the switching circuit to disconnect the capacitor from the power circuit, such that when the sensor is measuring a physical quantity, the electrical energy supplied to the sensor by the power output is exclusively derived from the capacitor.

[0086] In some examples, the power supply circuit is disconnected from the power supply output when the capacitor is disconnected from the power supply circuit via a switching circuit.

[0087] Other examples relate to an apparatus for an SMPS (Smart Sensor Power Supply) for operating a sensor, wherein the SMPS includes a power output for connecting to and supplying electrical energy to the sensor, a capacitor capable of storing electrical energy coupled to the power output, a power circuit including a switching regulator for providing DC power, and a switching circuit capable of selectively connecting the capacitor to the power circuit. The apparatus includes means for receiving a status signal indicating whether the sensor is measuring a physical quantity. Furthermore, the apparatus includes means for controlling the switching circuit to connect the capacitor to the power input to charge the capacitor if the status signal indicates that the sensor is not measuring a physical quantity. The apparatus also includes means for controlling the switching circuit to disconnect the capacitor from the power input if the status signal indicates that the sensor is measuring a physical quantity, such that when the sensor is measuring a physical quantity, the electrical energy supplied to the sensor by the power output is exclusively derived from the capacitor.

[0088] Some examples involve sensor systems that include an SMPS as described herein and sensors capable of measuring physical quantities, wherein the sensors are connected to the power output of the SMPS.

[0089] In some examples, the sensor is a radar sensor capable of performing radar measurements.

[0090] Other examples involve electronic devices, including the SMPS described herein and sensors capable of measuring physical quantities, wherein the sensors are connected to the power output of the SMPS.

[0091] According to some examples, an electronic device can be a mobile device, wherein the mobile device includes a battery that serves as a power source for the SMPS.

[0092] In some examples, the sensor is a radar sensor capable of performing radar measurements.

[0093] Other examples involve non-transitory machine-readable media on which a program is stored, which, when executed on a processor or programmable hardware, has program code for performing one of the methods described herein.

[0094] Other examples involve programs that have program code that, when executed on a processor or programmable hardware, is used to perform one of the methods described herein.

[0095] The examples disclosed herein can provide intelligent switching power supplies in radar sensors.

[0096] Compared with one or more detailed examples and appendices previously Figure 1 The aspects and features mentioned and described can also be combined with one or more other examples to replace similar features in other examples or to introduce additional features to other examples.

[0097] When a computer program is executed on a computer or processor, the examples may also be or relate to a computer program having program code for performing one or more of the methods described above. The steps, operations, or processes of the various methods described above may be performed by a programmed computer or processor. The examples may also cover non-transitory program storage devices (e.g., digital data storage media) that are machine-, processor-, or computer-readable and translate machine-executable, processor-executable, or computer-executable instructions into code. The instructions execute or cause some or all of the actions of the methods described above to be performed. Program storage devices may include or may be, for example, digital memory, magnetic storage media (e.g., disks and tapes), hard disk drives, or optically readable digital data storage media. Further examples may also cover a computer, processor, or control unit programmed to perform the actions of the methods described above or an ASIC, (Field-Programmable Array of Logic) ((F)PLA), or (Field-Programmable Gate Array of Logic) ((F)PGA).

[0098] The specification and accompanying drawings illustrate only the principles of this disclosure. Furthermore, all examples listed herein are explicitly intended for illustrative purposes only to aid the reader in understanding the principles of this disclosure and the inventors' concepts for further development of the technology. All statements herein referencing principles, aspects, and examples of this disclosure, as well as specific examples thereof, are intended to cover their equivalents.

[0099] A function block labeled "equipment for..." that performs a specific function can refer to a circuit configured to perform a specific function. Therefore, "equipment for something" can be implemented as "equipment configured or adapted for something", such as a device or circuit configured or adapted for a specific task.

[0100] The functions of the various elements shown in the accompanying drawings, including any functional blocks labeled "equipment," "equipment for providing signals," "equipment for generating signals," etc., can be implemented in the form of dedicated hardware (e.g., "signal supplier," "signal processing unit," "processor," "controller," etc., and hardware capable of executing software in association with appropriate software). When provided by a processor, the functionality can be provided by a single dedicated processor, a single shared processor, or multiple separate processors, some or all of which may be shared. However, the terms "processor" or "controller" are not limited to hardware specifically capable of executing software; they can also include DSP hardware, network processors, ASICs, FPGAs, ROM, RAM, and non-volatile memory for storing software. Other conventional and / or custom hardware may also be included.

[0101] Block diagrams may, for example, illustrate high-level circuit diagrams that implement the principles of this disclosure. Similarly, flowcharts, state transition diagrams, pseudocode, etc., may represent various processes, operations, or steps, which may, for example, be presented substantially by a computer-readable medium and therefore executed by a computer or processor, whether or not the computer or processor is explicitly shown. The methods disclosed in the specification or claims may be implemented by a device having equipment for each of the corresponding actions for performing these methods.

[0102] It should be understood that multiple actions, processes, operations, steps, or functions disclosed in the specification or claims may not be construed as being in a particular order, unless otherwise expressly or implicitly stated, for example, for technical reasons. Therefore, the disclosure of multiple actions or functions will not limit them to a particular order unless these actions or functions are not interchangeable for technical reasons. Furthermore, in some examples, a single action, function, process, operation, or step may include or be decomposed into multiple corresponding sub-actions, sub-functions, sub-processes, sub-operations, or sub-steps. Unless expressly excluded, such sub-actions may be included within this disclosure and are part of the disclosure of a single action.

[0103] Furthermore, the following claims are hereby incorporated into the detailed description, wherein each claim may be an independent example. While each claim may be an independent example, it should be noted that—although dependent claims may refer in a claim to a particular combination of one or more other claims—other examples may also include combinations of dependent claims that have subject matter that is dependent or independent of each other. These combinations are expressly presented herein unless otherwise stated. Furthermore, it is intended that the features of a claim be included in any other independent claim, even if that claim does not directly depend on the independent claim.

Claims

1. A sensor system (100), comprising: A sensor (110) capable of measuring physical quantities; A capacitor (120) for storing electrical energy is coupled to the sensor (110). A power input (130) is provided for connecting the sensor system (100) to a switch-mode power supply. The switching circuit (140) is capable of selectively connecting the capacitor (120) to the power input (130). as well as The control circuit (150) is configured to control the switching circuit (140) to: When the sensor (110) is not measuring the physical quantity, the capacitor (120) is connected to the power input (130) to charge the capacitor (120); as well as When the sensor (110) measures the physical quantity, the capacitor (120) is disconnected from the power input (130) so that when the sensor (110) measures the physical quantity, the capacitor (120) powers the sensor (110) entirely.

2. The sensor system (100) of claim 1, wherein the control circuit (150) is configured to receive a status signal indicating whether the sensor (110) is measuring the physical quantity, and wherein the control circuit (150) is configured to control the switching circuit (140) based on the status signal.

3. The sensor system (100) of claim 1 or 2, wherein the sensor (110) is disconnected from the switch-mode power supply when the capacitor (120) is disconnected from the switch-mode power supply via the switch circuit (140).

4. The sensor system (100) of claim 1 or 2, wherein the sensor (110) is a radar sensor (110) capable of performing radar measurements.

5. The sensor system (100) of claim 2, wherein the sensor (110) is a radar sensor (110) capable of performing radar measurements, and wherein the status signal indicates that the radar sensor (110) did not perform radar measurements during a time period between two consecutive radio frequency transmissions by the radar sensor (110).

6. A method (400) for operating a sensor system, the sensor system including a sensor capable of measuring a physical quantity, a capacitor coupled to the sensor for storing electrical energy, a power input for connecting the sensor system to a switch-mode power supply, and a switching circuit capable of selectively connecting the capacitor to the power input, the method (400) comprising: When the sensor is not measuring the physical quantity, the switching circuit (402) is controlled to connect the capacitor to the power input so as to charge the capacitor; as well as When the sensor measures the physical quantity, the switching circuit (404) is controlled to disconnect the capacitor from the power input so that the sensor is powered entirely by the capacitor when the sensor measures the physical quantity.

7. The method (400) of claim 6, wherein the method (400) further comprises receiving (406) a state signal indicating whether the sensor is measuring the physical quantity, and wherein the switching circuit is controlled based on the state signal.

8. The method (400) of claim 6 or claim 7, wherein the sensor is a radar sensor capable of performing radar measurements.

9. A switch-mode power supply (500) for a sensor, the switch-mode power supply (500) comprising: A power output (530) is provided for connecting to the sensor and supplying electrical energy to the sensor. A capacitor (520) capable of storing electrical energy is coupled to the power output (530). The power supply circuit device (510) includes a switching regulator for providing DC power; The switching circuit (540) is capable of selectively connecting the capacitor (520) to the power supply circuit device (510). as well as The control circuit (550) is configured as follows: Receive a status signal indicating whether the sensor is measuring a physical quantity; If the status signal indicates that the sensor is not measuring the physical quantity, the switching circuit (540) is controlled to connect the capacitor (520) to the power supply circuit device (510) to charge the capacitor (520). as well as If the status signal indicates that the sensor is measuring the physical quantity, the switching circuit (540) is controlled to disconnect the capacitor (520) from the switching regulator, such that when the sensor is measuring the physical quantity, all the electrical energy supplied to the sensor by the power supply output (530) originates from the capacitor (520).

10. The switch-mode power supply of claim 9, wherein when the capacitor (520) is disconnected from the power supply circuit device (510) via the switch circuit (540), the power supply circuit device (510) is disconnected from the power supply output (530).

11. A method (700) for operating a switch-mode power supply for a sensor, wherein the switch-mode power supply includes a power output for connecting to and providing electrical energy to the sensor, a capacitor coupled to the power output and capable of storing electrical energy, a power circuit arrangement including a switching regulator for providing DC power, and a switching circuit capable of selectively connecting the capacitor to the power circuit arrangement, the method comprising: Receive (702) a status signal indicating whether the sensor is measuring a physical quantity; If the status signal indicates that the sensor is not measuring the physical quantity, then control (704) the switching circuit to connect the capacitor to the power supply circuit device to charge the capacitor; as well as If the status signal indicates that the sensor is measuring the physical quantity, then control (706) the switching circuit to disconnect the capacitor from the switching regulator, such that when the sensor is measuring the physical quantity, all the electrical energy supplied to the sensor by the power supply output originates from the capacitor.

12. A sensor system (630). include ： The switch-mode power supply (500) according to claim 9 or claim 10; and A sensor (610) capable of measuring physical quantities, wherein the sensor (610) is connected to the power output (530).

13. An electronic device (300), comprising: The sensor system (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 5; as well as A switch-mode power supply (320) is connected to the power input (130) of the sensor system (100).

14. The electronic device (300) of claim 13, wherein the electronic device (300) is a mobile device, and wherein the mobile device includes a battery for use as a power source (330) for a switch-mode power source (320).

15. An electronic device (600), comprising: The switch-mode power supply (500) according to claim 9 or 10. as well as A sensor (610) capable of measuring physical quantities, wherein the sensor (610) is connected to the power output (530).

16. The electronic device (600) of claim 15, wherein the electronic device (600) is a mobile device, and wherein the mobile device includes a battery for use as a power source (620) for a switch-mode power source (500).

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