Asynchronous Intermittent Control Circuit for Sensor Power Optimization
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing circuit devices that include sensors and amplifier circuits for power control struggle with high power consumption due to continuous operation of circuits beyond the sensor, and there is a need for efficient intermittent operation to reduce energy usage, particularly in systems where the pulse signal generation is synchronized with a system clock, making it difficult to adjust pulse width accurately and consider settling times for stable output.
Innovation Solution
A circuit device with a control circuit that generates asynchronous intermittent operation control signals for both sensors and amplifier circuits, allowing for independent power management through separate control signals and a pulse generating circuit using a constant current source, capacitor, and comparator to adjust pulse width and timing, enabling asynchronous operation and reducing power consumption.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of energy
If the sensor and amplifier circuit are operated intermittently to reduce power consumption, then power consumption is reduced, but the pulse width control becomes difficult when synchronized with system clock
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies periodic action by using intermittent operation of the sensor and amplifier circuit through pulse signals. The control circuit generates pulse signals with specific widths to activate circuits only when needed, reducing power consumption while maintaining measurement functionality. The pulse-based intermittent operation allows energy savings without completely disabling the measurement capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements dynamics by making the pulse width adjustable and independent from the system clock frequency. The control circuit can dynamically adjust the pulse width parameter to optimize between power consumption and measurement requirements, providing flexibility in operation mode without being constrained by fixed clock synchronization.
2Loss of energy
If the pulse width is reduced to increase power consumption reduction effect, then power consumption is reduced, but settling time requirements cannot be met
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by ensuring the amplifier circuit is activated before the sensor in the intermittent operation sequence. This timing arrangement allows the amplifier to settle and stabilize its output before the sensor begins measurement, ensuring reliable and stable readings while maintaining short overall operation periods for power consumption reduction.
Solution Approach 2:
The control circuit uses periodic pulse signals with carefully designed widths and intervals to manage the intermittent operation. The pulse width is set to be sufficient for the amplifier settling time while keeping the overall activation period short, achieving a balance between power consumption reduction and output stability requirements through periodic activation patterns.
3Loss of energy
If separate intermittent operation control signals are used for sensor and amplifier circuit, then power consumption is reduced, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The control circuit achieves multi-functionality by generating multiple intermittent operation control signals from a single control unit. The control circuit can produce differentiated pulse signals for the sensor and amplifier circuit using the same basic control logic and pulse generation mechanism, reducing the need for separate complex control circuits while maintaining independent control capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies segmentation by dividing the control function into distinct control signals for different circuits (sensor and amplifier). The control circuit generates separate intermittent operation control signals tailored to each circuit's specific requirements, allowing independent optimization of each component's operation timing while maintaining a unified control architecture.
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 configuration allows for reduced power consumption by optimizing the operation timing of sensors and amplifier circuits, improving power efficiency and accommodating manufacturing variations and settling times, while enabling accurate measurement and stable output.
Implementation Method 1
a capacitor which is charged with electric charge by the electric current from the constant current source
Implementation Method 2
a comparator which outputs a pulse signal on the basis of a result obtained by comparing a voltage based on the electric charge charged in the capacitor with a reference voltage
Data Source
AI summary
A circuit device includes an amplifier circuit to which a signal from a sensor is input and a control circuit which controls the sensor and the amplifier circuit. An intermittent operation of the sensor and an intermittent operation of the amplifier circuit are controlled by an intermittent operation control signal output from the control circuit.