Digital DC Offset Correction for PVT-Stable Amplifier Output

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing digital DC offset correction methods for discrete-time amplifiers and filters are unable to maintain a stable output DC offset value across variations in process, voltage, and temperature (PVT), leading to limited signal range and instability.

Innovation Solution

A digital DC offset correction method and device that uses a digital-analog converter to generate an initial voltage for a load capacitor, a comparator to compare the output DC offset with a preset value, and a controller to adjust the input code value of the converter, ensuring the output DC offset is maintained at a desired level by varying the initial capacitance.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If a digital-analog converter is used to generate an initial voltage value for the load capacitor, then the output DC offset value can be adjusted to a desired level, but the device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveoutput DC offset valueVSAvoiddevice complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements a feedback mechanism where the comparator continuously monitors the actual output DC offset value and compares it with the desired value. Based on this comparison, the controller adjusts the input code value to the digital-analog converter, creating a closed-loop control system that automatically maintains the desired DC offset level despite variations in PVT conditions.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

Solution Approach 2:

The patent introduces a digital-analog converter as an intermediary component between the digital control domain and the analog signal processing domain. This converter translates digital code values into analog voltage values that charge the load capacitor, enabling precise control of the DC offset through digital means while isolating the complexity of analog adjustment.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Measurement precision

If the initial voltage value of the load capacitor is varied to correct DC offset, then the output DC offset value changes, but the stability under PVT variations deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveoutput DC offset valueVSAvoidstability under PVT variations
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The feedback loop continuously monitors the output DC offset and dynamically adjusts the input code value to compensate for PVT variations. This closed-loop control ensures that the desired DC offset value is maintained across different process, voltage, and temperature conditions, significantly improving reliability and stability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

Solution Approach 2:

The patent transitions from a static DC offset correction approach to a dynamic one where the input code value is continuously adjusted based on real-time feedback. This dynamic adjustment mechanism allows the system to adapt to changing PVT conditions and maintain stable performance throughout operation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

3Measurement precision

If a comparator and controller are added to compare and adjust the DC offset, then the DC offset correction precision is improved, but the device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
ImproveDC offset correction precisionVSAvoiddevice complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The comparator and controller form a feedback control system that automatically adjusts the DC offset to the desired value. The comparator provides precise measurement of the actual DC offset, and the controller translates this information into appropriate adjustments, achieving high correction precision through systematic feedback control.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

Solution Approach 2:

The system implements self-service DC offset correction by automatically monitoring and adjusting its own output DC offset value without requiring external intervention. The comparator and controller work together to autonomously maintain the desired DC offset level, eliminating the need for manual calibration or external adjustment mechanisms.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Data Source

PatentUS8164494B2Method and device for digitally correcting DC offset
Publication Date: 2012.04.24 ELECTRONICS & TELECOMM RES INST
  • US8164494B2 patent drawing
  • US8164494B2 patent drawing
  • US8164494B2 patent drawing

AI summary

There is provided a digital Direct Current (DC) offset correction method and device. The device includes a digital-analog converter charging a load capacitor according to an input code value and generating an initial voltage value of the load capacitor; a comparator comparing an output DC offset value of a discrete-time amplifier and filter on the basis of the initial voltage value with a preset output DC offset value when the discrete-time amplifier and filter and the load capacitor are connected to each other; and a controller changing the input code value of the digital-analog converter according to comparison result of the comparator.