Dual-Comparator Discrete Input Circuit for Mixed Open and 28V Signals
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Solution Overview
Problem
Avionics products require separate circuits for OPEN/GND and 28V/OPEN discrete inputs, leading to inefficiencies in hardware utilization and reduced flexibility and cost-effectiveness due to unused hardware.
Innovation Solution
A discrete input determining circuit with an input biasing network, voltage divider, and dual comparators that can handle both OPEN/GND and 28V/OPEN inputs, providing a unified logic output through a logic AND function.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If separate circuits are provided for OPEN/GND and 28V/OPEN discrete inputs, then each circuit type can be optimized for its specific function, but hardware utilization becomes inefficient and flexibility is reduced due to unused hardware
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a universal discrete input determining circuit that can handle both OPEN/GND and 28V/OPEN input types through a single circuit design. The circuit uses a voltage divider network and two comparators configured to detect different voltage states (0V, 28V, and intermediate voltages), allowing one circuit to replace what previously required two separate circuit types. This multi-functional approach eliminates unused hardware while maintaining reliability for both input types.
2Reliability
If separate circuits are provided for OPEN/GND and 28V/OPEN discrete inputs, then each circuit type can be optimized for its specific function, but cost-effectiveness is reduced due to unused hardware
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the functionality of two separate circuit types (OPEN/GND detector with pullup and 28V/OPEN detector with pulldown) into a single unified circuit. By combining the voltage detection logic and using a common voltage divider network with two comparators, the design reduces the total quantity of circuits needed in production. This consolidation lowers manufacturing costs by eliminating redundant hardware while preserving the reliable detection of both discrete input types.
3Adaptability or versatility
If a single circuit is used for both OPEN/GND and 28V/OPEN discrete inputs, then hardware utilization and flexibility are improved, but circuit complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the voltage detection function into two independent comparator operations, each handling a specific comparison task. The first comparator detects one voltage threshold while the second comparator detects another threshold, and their outputs are combined through a logic AND function. This segmentation of the detection task into modular, independent stages simplifies the overall design logic while achieving the versatility to handle multiple input types. The use of standard comparator components and a voltage divider network keeps the implementation straightforward despite the multi-functional requirement.
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 circuit allows for flexible and cost-effective use of hardware by accommodating both input types, optimizing resource utilization and reducing waste.
Implementation Method 1
a voltage divider network for dividing the first input voltage into a second input voltage and a third input voltage
Implementation Method 2
a first comparator and a second comparator... comparing the second input with a reference voltage and outputting a first output, comparing the reference voltage with the third input and outputting a second output
Data Source
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AI summary
A discrete input determining circuit 100 is disclosed, which includes an input biasing network 110 connected to a discrete input for providing a first input voltage (V1), a voltage divider network 120 for dividing the first input voltage (V1) into a second input voltage (V2) and a third input voltage (V3), a first comparator 130, wherein a non-inverting input terminal of the first comparator receives the second input voltage (V2), and a second comparator 140, wherein an inverting input terminal of the second comparator receives the third input voltage (V3), wherein an inverting input terminal of the first comparator and a non-inverting input terminal of the second comparator receive a reference voltage, and an output terminal of the first comparator and an output terminal of the second comparator are configured to provide a logic output (F). A discrete input determining method is also disclosed.