Adaptive Demodulator Filter Gain for PVT-Stable Data Links

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing data communication systems in electrical systems face challenges in maintaining consistent frequency response and power efficiency due to process, voltage, and temperature (PVT) variations, leading to distortion in signal transmission between IC chips and devices.

Innovation Solution

A communication system that includes a demodulator with a filter and a gain adjusting circuit, where the gain of the filter is automatically controlled by a set of control signals based on the voltage of the filtered signal, effectively compensating for PVT variations and maintaining consistent frequency response.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If traditional fixed-gain filter design is used, then the device complexity is low, but the frequency response becomes inconsistent under PVT variations

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvefrequency response consistencyVSAvoidfilter control circuit complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements an automatic gain control circuit that continuously monitors the filtered signal voltage and dynamically adjusts the filter gain through feedback control. This closed-loop system compensates for PVT variations by comparing the actual signal level against a reference and automatically adjusting the gain to maintain consistent frequency response across varying process, voltage, and temperature conditions.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

Solution Approach 2:

The patent transitions from a static fixed-gain filter design to a dynamic adaptive filter system. The filter gain is no longer fixed but dynamically adjusted based on real-time signal conditions and PVT variations. This dynamic approach allows the system to adapt to changing environmental conditions while maintaining optimal frequency response characteristics.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

2Reliability

If higher power is consumed for signal transmission, then the communication range is extended, but the power efficiency deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedata communication reliabilityVSAvoidpower consumption
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSUse of energy by moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent dynamically changes the filter gain parameter based on signal conditions and PVT variations to optimize power efficiency. By automatically adjusting the gain to match actual communication needs rather than using a fixed high-gain design, the system reduces unnecessary power consumption while maintaining reliable data communication under varying operating conditions.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

Data Source

PatentUS11528053B2Communication system and method of data communications
Publication Date: 2022.12.13 TAIWAN SEMICONDUCTOR MANUFACTURING CO LTD
  • US11528053B2 patent drawing
  • US11528053B2 patent drawing
  • US11528053B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A communication system includes a transmitter configured to transmit a modulated signal, a transmission line configured to carry the modulated signal, and a receiver coupled to the transmitter by the transmission line, and configured to receive the modulated signal. The transmitter includes a modulator configured to generate the modulated signal responsive to a data signal and a carrier signal. The receiver includes a demodulator configured to demodulate the modulated signal responsive to a first carrier signal. The demodulator includes a filter and a gain adjusting circuit configured to adjust a gain of the filter, and to generate the set of control signals based on a voltage of the filtered first signal and a voltage of the first signal. The gain adjusting circuit includes a first peak detector coupled to the filter, and configured to detect a peak value of the voltage of the filtered first signal.