Adjustable Frequency Source for High-Resolution RC Sensing

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing frequency sources with fixed frequencies limit the accuracy and sensitivity in measuring changes in resistance and capacitance values, constraining the resolution and sensitivity of capacitive and resistive sensing technologies.

Innovation Solution

A frequency source with an adjustable frequency, utilizing a Time-Average-Frequency Direct Period Synthesis (TAF-DPS) clock generator, allows for precise frequency measurement and fast frequency switching, enabling higher sensitivity in detecting changes in resistance and capacitance values by generating any frequency and adjusting the control word F to match the measured capacitance or resistance values.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If a fixed frequency source is used to measure the relaxation oscillator, then the measurement system is simple, but the measurement precision and sensitivity are limited

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvefrequency measurement precisionVSAvoidfrequency source complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements a dynamic frequency source that can adjust its output frequency based on the measured signal characteristics. The frequency source transitions from a fixed frequency design to a variable frequency design, allowing it to adapt to different measurement requirements and improve precision without excessive complexity

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The patent changes the frequency parameter of the frequency source dynamically during measurement. By adjusting the frequency parameter according to the relaxation oscillator's characteristics, the system achieves higher measurement precision while maintaining manageable complexity through controlled parameter variation

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

2Measurement precision

If a fixed frequency source is used, then the device structure is simple, but the sensitivity in detecting resistance and capacitance changes is insufficient

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveresistance and capacitance detection sensitivityVSAvoidfrequency source structure
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements a feedback mechanism where the frequency source adjusts its output frequency based on the measured signal from the relaxation oscillator. This feedback loop enables the system to detect subtle changes in resistance and capacitance values by continuously adapting the measurement frequency, thereby improving sensitivity

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

Solution Approach 2:

The frequency source is designed to dynamically adjust its frequency based on real-time measurement conditions. This dynamic capability allows the system to enhance sensitivity to resistance and capacitance changes without requiring a completely complex device structure, as the adjustment is performed through controlled frequency variation

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

3Measurement precision

If a fixed frequency clock generator is used, then the system is easy to implement, but the resolution in measuring capacitance and resistance values is constrained

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecapacitance and resistance measurement resolutionVSAvoidclock generator complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The clock generator is designed to vary its frequency parameter based on the measured signal characteristics. By changing the frequency parameter dynamically, the system achieves higher resolution in capacitance and resistance measurements. The implementation maintains reasonable complexity by using controlled parameter changes rather than complete system redesign

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

Data Source

PatentUS10558238B2Frequency source with an adjustable frequency and related system, method and electronic device
Publication Date: 2020.02.11 BOE TECHNOLOGY GROUP CO LTD
  • US10558238B2 patent drawing
  • US10558238B2 patent drawing
  • US10558238B2 patent drawing

AI summary

The present disclosure relates to a frequency source with an adjustable frequency, and related system, method and electronic device, in particular to a frequency source with an adjustable frequency comprising an input terminal for receiving an input voltage signal, wherein the frequency source identifies a frequency of the input voltage signal. The present disclosure relates to a system comprising the frequency source, a method for identifying the frequency of the voltage signal, and an electronic device comprising the frequency source.