Driver Unit Programmable Memory Output Current Control
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing drivers for adjusting output current are either limited in settings, complex, error-prone, and expensive, lacking a robust and inexpensive solution for programming the output current.
Innovation Solution
A driver unit with a programmable memory unit, programming signal circuit, and controller circuit that allows for easy setting and regulation of output current by storing target values and generating control signals, enabling off-line programming for safety and low power consumption, using MOSFET switches and a single-wire programmable memory device for simplicity and cost-effectiveness.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If drivers with wider options for output current settings are used, then adaptability is improved, but device complexity increases and reliability decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses a programmable memory unit to store target current values, replacing complex hardware adjustment circuits with a simple memory-based storage solution. The memory unit copies and stores current setting data, allowing multiple output current configurations without adding physical complexity to the driver circuitry.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the parameter storage method from fixed hardware configurations to programmable memory storage. By storing target current values in a programmable memory unit and reading them out during operation, the system achieves wide output current adjustment range while maintaining simple and reliable driver circuitry.
2Ease of operation
If programming signals are always enabled, then ease of operation is improved, but power consumption increases and reliability decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a dynamic enabling switch that controls the programming signal circuit based on operational state. The switch closes the output circuit only when programming is needed, and opens it during normal operation to reduce power consumption and prevent accidental programming, making the system both easy to program when needed and energy-efficient during operation.
3Ease of operation
If the driver can be programmed while operating, then ease of operation is improved, but reliability decreases due to safety risks
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary anti-action by using an enabling switch that prevents programming signals from being applied during driver operation. The switch is configured to block programming access when the driver is running, eliminating the safety risk of programming during operation while still allowing convenient programming when the driver is off.
Data Source
AI summary
A driver unit for programming an output current of a driver with an output stage for providing the output current and a primary control stage with a control input for controlling the output current has been provided. The driver unit includes a programmable memory unit for storing data corresponding a target value of the output current, a programming signal circuit configured to provide electric signals for writing the data in the programmable memory unit as well as a controller circuit with a controller. The controller is operatively connected to the programmable memory unit and is configured to read out the data stored in the programmable memory unit and generate a controller output signal for adjusting the output current of the driver, based on the data stored in the programmable memory unit.