Clock Signal Modulation for Sensor Data in Four-Pin Timing Devices
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional timing devices require additional pins to transfer sensor data, which is not compatible with existing four-pin footprints and can be unnecessary for systems that do not need sensor information, leading to design changes or the use of different products.
Innovation Solution
A timing device that generates a modulated clock signal using operational characteristic signals from sensors, allowing sensor data to be transmitted over a single connection while maintaining compatibility with existing footprints, using an integrated circuit to process and modulate the clock signal without requiring additional connections.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of information
If additional pins are added to transfer sensor data, then sensor data transfer capability is improved, but device compatibility with existing four-pin footprints deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines sensor data transfer with the existing clock signal output by modulating the clock signal to encode sensor information. This merging allows both functions (clock output and sensor data transfer) to be achieved through a single pin, eliminating the need for additional pins while maintaining backward compatibility with four-pin footprints.
Solution Approach 2:
The clock signal pin is given multi-functionality by enabling it to carry both its original clock signal function and the additional sensor data transfer function through modulation. This universal approach allows the same pin to serve multiple purposes, resolving the contradiction between adding sensor data capability and maintaining compatibility.
2Loss of information
If additional pins are added for sensor data, then sensor data transfer is enabled, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges sensor data transfer with the existing clock signal path, combining two separate functions into one signal pathway. This reduces the number of physical connections required while enabling sensor data transfer, thereby reducing device complexity rather than increasing it.
3Loss of information
If additional pins are added, then sensor data can be transferred, but ease of manufacture deteriorates due to design changes
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a universal solution where the existing clock signal pin performs both clock output and sensor data transfer functions. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for design changes in manufacturing, as the device maintains its original four-pin footprint while gaining enhanced capabilities.
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
Enables the transfer of both clock and sensor data within the existing four-pin footprint, ensuring compatibility with systems that do not need sensor data, without the need for additional hardware or software changes, and allowing for seamless integration with existing systems.
Implementation Method 1
The modulator modulates the clock signal in relation to the information to generate a modulated clock signal indicative of the one or more operational characteristics of the crystal oscillator or the oven
Data Source
AI summary
A timing device includes an oven having a chamber, a crystal oscillator disposed in the chamber that generates a clock signal, and one or more sensors to generate operational characteristic signals indicative of respective operational characteristics of the crystal oscillator or the oven. The timing device includes a plurality of I/O connections and an IC device. The IC device includes processing logic to generate information that indicates how the generated clock signal is to be modified and a modulator coupled to the processing logic and the crystal oscillator. The modulator modulates the generated clock signal in relation to the information to generate a modulated clock signal indicative of the one or more operational characteristics of the crystal oscillator or the oven. The modulator outputs the modulated clock signal over a single one of the plurality of I/O connections.