Digital Readout Module With Adjustable Clock Resolution
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional digital sensing apparatuses have a fixed readout range, leading to errors when sensing environmental parameters beyond this range and result in continuous analog-to-digital conversion, causing power dissipation issues.
Innovation Solution
A digital sensing apparatus with a digital readout module that includes a reading unit generating a pulse signal with adjustable pulse width, a clock signal generator producing a variable-frequency clock signal, and a counter to generate a digital sensing code, allowing for adjustable resolution and power-saving by stopping clock signal generation when the pulse width falls below a threshold.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the conversion range of the analog-to-digital converter is fixed, then the digital sensing code can be generated within a specific readout range, but errors occur when the environmental parameter is outside the readout range
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by making the readout range adjustable through variable clock signal frequency. The system can dynamically change the conversion range of the analog-to-digital converter by adjusting the clock signal frequency, allowing the readout range to adapt to different environmental parameter ranges. This resolves the contradiction by enabling the system to maintain high accuracy within the current readout range while also being able to expand or shift the range to cover different parameter values.
2Productivity
If the analog-to-digital converter performs continuous conversion, then the digital sensing code is continuously updated, but power dissipation increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies periodic action by implementing a trigger mechanism that activates the analog-to-digital converter only when necessary. The trigger signal initiates conversion only when the environmental parameter changes exceed a threshold or when explicitly requested, rather than performing continuous conversion. This resolves the contradiction by maintaining the ability to update digital sensing codes at high rates when needed while significantly reducing power consumption during stable conditions.
3Measurement precision
If the clock signal frequency is increased, then the resolution of the digital sensing code is improved, but power consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by making the clock signal frequency adjustable rather than fixed. The system can dynamically select appropriate clock frequencies based on the required measurement precision and power constraints. High frequency is used when high resolution is needed, while lower frequency is used when power saving is prioritized or when parameter changes are slow. This resolves the contradiction by allowing the system to optimize the balance between resolution and power consumption based on real-time requirements.
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 adjustable readout range and resolution, reducing errors and power consumption by calibrating pulse widths and adjusting clock signal frequency, thus improving the accuracy and efficiency of digital sensing.
Implementation Method 1
The sensing element SE is configured to sense an environmental parameter and to generate a first characteristic parameter varying in a positive relation with the environmental parameter, and a second characteristic parameter varying in a negative relation with the environmental parameter
Implementation Method 2
a counter coupled to the reading unit for receiving the pulse signal, and coupled to the clock signal generator for receiving the clock signal, the counter being operable to count a width value of the pulse width of the pulse signal using the clock signal
Data Source
AI summary
A digital sensing apparatus includes a sensing unit capable of providing a sensing response associated with an environmental parameter, and a digital readout module including a reading unit for generating a pulse signal having a pulse width as sociated with the sensing response, and a converting unit. The converting unit includes a clock signal generator for generating a variable-frequency clock signal, and a counter operable to count a width value of the pulse width of the pulse signal using the clock signal, so as to generate a digital sensing code. The frequency of the clock signal from the clock signal generator is adjustable to adjust resolution of the width value of the pulse width of the pulse signal.