Current Detection Circuit With Split Resistors for Accuracy-Cost Balance
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional current detection circuits face challenges in achieving high accuracy and low cost, as high-accuracy, low-resistance resistance elements are expensive, and the needed accuracy varies by application, making it difficult to suppress costs while maintaining detection precision.
Innovation Solution
A semiconductor integrated circuit device with a configuration that includes switching elements and a differential amplifier, which uses detection resistors with varying resistance values to detect currents with high accuracy and control power consumption, allowing for adaptable current detection circuits that can handle both high and low accuracy needs while minimizing costs.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a high-accuracy, low-resistance resistance element is used for current detection, then the accuracy of current detection is improved, but the cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The current detection function is segmented into two parts: a first resistance element for detecting large load currents and a second resistance element for detecting small reference currents. This segmentation allows each resistance element to be optimized for its specific function, enabling the use of cheaper resistance elements instead of requiring one expensive high-accuracy resistance element for all current ranges.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention changes the resistance values of the two resistance elements to different parameters. The first resistance element has a first resistance value optimized for load current detection, while the second resistance element has a second resistance value (different from the first) optimized for reference current detection. This parameter differentiation allows each element to operate in its optimal range, improving overall detection accuracy while reducing costs.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a single resistance element is used for current detection, then the device complexity is reduced, but the adaptability to different accuracy needs is worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The invention introduces dynamic adaptability through a switching element that can selectively connect or disconnect the second resistance element based on the required detection accuracy. When high accuracy is needed for small currents, the switching element connects the second resistance element. When lower accuracy suffices or large currents are detected, the second resistance element is disconnected. This dynamic configuration allows the system to adapt to different accuracy requirements without permanently increasing complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The first resistance element serves multiple functions: it detects both large load currents and, when the switching element connects it, small reference currents. The second resistance element provides high-precision reference current detection when needed. This multi-functionality allows a single detection circuit to handle various current ranges and accuracy requirements, improving versatility without proportionally increasing 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 solution enables current detection with high accuracy and reduced power consumption, facilitating cost-effective current detection across different applications by using inexpensive resistance elements and optimizing current ratios through negative feedback circuits.
Implementation Method 1
a differential amplifier that outputs a signal provided by amplifying a voltage difference that is generated between the third node and the fourth node to control a conduction state of the third switching element
Implementation Method 2
A voltage drop is generated by, for example, an external resistance element for a semiconductor integrated circuit device where a differential amplifier is formed therein
Data Source
AI summary
According to an embodiment, a semiconductor integrated circuit device has a first switching element that is connected between first and second nodes, a second switching element that is connected between the first node and a third node and outputs a current that is 1/K times as much as an output current of the first switching element, and an amplifier that controls, by a signal provided by amplifying a voltage difference between the third node and a fourth node, a conduction state of a third switching element that is connected between the fourth node and a fifth node.