Dynamic Power Control for Position Detection Platforms
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing position sensing technologies, such as synchros, resolvers, LVDTs, and RVDTs, require tailored hardware converters for specific implementation specifications, leading to increased complexity, costs, and limited applicability across different applications, as well as challenges in calibration and test due to hardware-specific requirements.
Innovation Solution
A digital position detection and simulation platform with software-configurable outputs that dynamically adjust power supply voltage based on signal amplitude, allowing for flexible configuration and operation across various applications, including avionics, industrial control, and simulation, using DC/DC power converters and programmable logic devices like FPGAs.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If hardware-tailored converters are used for specific synchro/resolver/LVDT/RVDT implementations, then the converter can meet specific voltage and frequency requirements, but the device complexity and variety of models increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a universal converter design that can handle multiple synchro, resolver, LVDT, and RVDT implementations through software configuration rather than hardware tailoring. The converter uses a single hardware platform with programmable logic that can be configured via lookup tables and control logic to support different wire configurations (4-wire, 5-wire, 6-wire), voltages, and frequencies, eliminating the need for multiple specialized converter models.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the approach from hardware parameter customization to software parameter configuration. By using programmable logic devices and lookup tables that can be loaded with different configuration data, the converter dynamically adjusts its behavior to match the specific implementation requirements without requiring physical hardware modifications.
2Reliability
If hardware-tailored converters are used for different wire configurations (4-wire, 5-wire, 6-wire), then the converter can be optimized for specific configurations, but the device complexity and parts stocking requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic configuration capability where the converter can adapt its sensing hardware configuration through software control. The programmable logic device receives configuration data that determines how the sensing circuits are connected and operated, allowing the same physical hardware to dynamically reconfigure itself for 4-wire, 5-wire, or 6-wire implementations without requiring separate dedicated hardware for each configuration.
Solution Approach 2:
The converter uses a universal sensing hardware platform that can support multiple wire configurations through software control. The same physical components are used across all configurations, with the programmable logic directing the appropriate connections and signal processing paths based on the configured implementation type.
3Adaptability or versatility
If hardware-tailored converters are developed for new implementation requirements, then the converter can support new specifications, but the development cycle time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements preliminary action by pre-configuring lookup tables and control logic templates that can be rapidly loaded into the programmable logic device. Rather than designing new hardware circuits for each implementation, the system has ready-made configuration data structures that can be quickly adapted to new synchro, resolver, LVDT, or RVDT specifications through software loading rather than hardware redesign.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent enables rapid adaptation to new implementation requirements by changing software parameters and lookup table contents rather than modifying hardware. The programmable logic device can be reconfigured through loaded configuration data that specifies new voltage levels, frequencies, wire configurations, or sensor types without requiring physical hardware changes or lengthy development cycles.
4Reliability
If hardware-tailored converters are used for calibration and test implementations, then the converter can be optimized for specific calibration requirements, but the device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a universal converter that can perform both operational sensing and calibration/test functions through software configuration. The same hardware platform used for normal synchro, resolver, LVDT, or RVDT conversion can be reconfigured via loaded lookup tables and control logic to perform calibration and test operations, eliminating the need for separate dedicated calibration devices.
Solution Approach 2:
The converter performs calibration and self-testing functions using its own hardware resources and programmable logic. The system can load calibration-specific lookup tables and control algorithms that enable it to test and calibrate itself or connected sensors without requiring external dedicated calibration equipment, reducing overall system complexity and cost.
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 platform reduces power consumption, enhances reliability, and supports a wide range of implementation specifications, enabling flexible configuration and operation across diverse applications without the need for hardware tailoring, thereby simplifying development cycles and reducing costs throughout the supply chain.
Implementation Method 1
adjusting a power supply voltage based on the expected amplitude; and providing the power supply voltage to a power supply input of a signal driver
Data Source
AI summary
A position detection and simulation platform includes software configurable logic and programmable inputs and outputs to support software configuration only changes for use with a variety of position feedback devices including synchros, resolvers, linear variable differential transformers, and rotary variable differential transformers. Power to the software configurable outputs is dynamically controlled so that the power supply voltage presented to the outputs satisfies a minimum threshold above the amplitude of the output signal. Dynamic control is based on at least one of a digital representation of a signal to be output, an analog version of the signal to be output, or the signal being output.