Configurable Input Channel Multiplexing for Multi-Channel ADC Systems
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing multi-channel analog-to-digital converter (ADC) systems face complexity in configuring input channels for different input types and mappings, making it difficult for users to program and manage multiple channels efficiently.
Innovation Solution
A system and method that utilize a 2-bit register value to configure input signals into one of several configurations, coupled with a multiplexer to map input channels to output channels based on these configurations, allowing for easy switching between single-ended, differential, pseudo-differential, and hybrid configurations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If separate configuration settings are provided for each input channel to specify input type and mapping, then the system provides full configurability for each channel, but the device complexity and difficulty of operation increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies universality by implementing a single configuration register that can control multiple input channels simultaneously. Instead of requiring separate configuration settings for each channel, one register value can configure the input type and mapping for multiple channels at once, reducing the number of configuration elements while maintaining full configurability across all channels.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges the configuration of multiple input channels into a single configuration register. By combining what would otherwise be separate configuration settings for each channel into one unified register, the system reduces the number of elements users must manage while preserving the ability to independently configure each channel's input type and mapping.
2Adaptability or versatility
If separate configuration settings are provided for each input channel to specify input type and mapping, then the system provides full configurability for each channel, but the ease of operation deteriorates due to confusing programming
Solution Approach 1:
The configuration register is designed to universally control multiple input channels with a single write operation. Users can configure the input type and mapping for multiple channels by setting one register value, eliminating the need to program each channel separately and significantly improving programming ease.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements preliminary action by providing default mapping configurations that are automatically applied when channels are enabled. Users only need to specify non-default mappings, and the system automatically handles the default case, reducing the programming effort required and making operation easier.
3Quantity of substance
If many input channels and many multiplexer output channels are supported, then the system provides high channel density, but the device complexity increases making configuration complicated
Solution Approach 1:
The configuration register is designed to universally control the input type and mapping for multiple channels simultaneously. A single register value can configure high-density channel mappings without requiring proportionally more configuration elements, maintaining manageable complexity even as the number of channels increases.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses parameter changes by encoding multiple configuration parameters (input type and mapping) into a compact register value. By changing the register parameter, the system can switch between different configuration modes for high-density channels, allowing flexible management of complex channel mappings through simple parameter adjustments.
Data Source
AI summary
A multi-channel ADC system may include a plurality of input channels coupled to input signals. A multiplexer may couple one or more of the plurality of input channels to one or more multiplexer output channels. A control circuit may be coupled between the multiplexer output channels and an ADC. In operation, a configuration setting may configure the multi-channel ADC system in one of a plurality of configurations, including but not limited to single-ended, differential, pseudo-differential and hybrid configurations. The ADC may convert the plurality of input channels based on the configuration setting.