Body-Biased Voltage Translation Circuit for Low-Voltage Linearity
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Solution Overview
Problem
Voltage translation circuits face limitations in achieving a linear translation function across the entire input voltage range due to non-linear transistor operating characteristics and leakage current, which reduces the effective translation range, especially at lower voltage levels.
Innovation Solution
Incorporating a current path parallel to the input transistor with a variable body bias voltage to provide additional current to the circuit node, increasing the effective translation range by ensuring the input transistor operates in a conductive state even at lower voltage levels and reducing the impact of leakage current.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a voltage translation circuit uses a standard input transistor configuration, then the circuit structure is simple, but the translation range is limited due to non-linear transistor characteristics and leakage current at lower voltage levels
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the current path into two parallel branches: one containing the input transistor and another containing a current source. This segmentation allows independent control of current flow in each branch, enabling the circuit to maintain proper current levels across a wider voltage range while managing the complexity through modular design
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a current source as an intermediary element that provides additional current to the circuit node in parallel with the input transistor. This intermediary current source compensates for leakage current and maintains conductivity at lower voltage levels, extending the translation range without fundamentally redesigning the entire circuit structure
2Adaptability or versatility
If the input transistor operates at lower voltage levels, then the translation range is extended, but leakage current increases and non-linear characteristics degrade the translation accuracy
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a feedback mechanism where the current source is controlled by a voltage that is derived from the input voltage through a resistive divider network. This feedback allows the current source to dynamically adjust its output to compensate for leakage current and non-linear effects, maintaining translation accuracy across the extended voltage range
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the operating parameters of the circuit by introducing a variable current source that adjusts its current output based on the input voltage level. This parameter change allows the circuit to maintain optimal current levels through the transistor even when the input voltage varies, thereby preserving translation accuracy across a wider range
3Adaptability or versatility
If additional current path is added to extend translation range, then the effective translation range increases, but the circuit complexity and number of components increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent designs the current source and associated circuitry to serve multiple functions: providing additional current to extend translation range, compensating for leakage current, and maintaining translation accuracy through feedback control. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate dedicated circuits for each function, thereby limiting the increase in overall circuit complexity
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
The additional current path enhances the translation range by maintaining proportionality between input and output voltages across a wider range, overcoming the limitations of non-linear transistor characteristics and leakage current issues.
Implementation Method 1
a translation circuit includes a current path to provide current to a circuit node of the input stage of the translation circuit
Implementation Method 2
The current path includes a transistor having a body biased by a circuit that provides a variable bias voltage
Data Source
AI summary
A voltage translation circuit (116) provides an output analog voltage signal that has a translated voltage of the voltage of an input analog voltage signal over a range of values of the input analog voltage signal. The voltage translation circuit includes an input stage (202) having a circuit node and an input transistor (210) coupled between the circuit node and a power supply terminal, wherein a gate of the input transistor is coupled to receive the input analog voltage signal; a current path circuit (204) in parallel with the input transistor, wherein the current path includes a first transistor coupled between the circuit node and the power supply terminal; and a circuit coupled to provide a variable body bias voltage to a body of the first transistor.