Multi-Purpose IC Node for User-Set Fault Thresholds
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional fault detection circuits require multiple pins for receiving and outputting threshold and fault signals, and often have fixed internal thresholds, limiting user configurability and increasing pin count.
Innovation Solution
An integrated circuit with a multi-purpose node that senses a threshold voltage during a predetermined time, stores the value, and outputs a fault signal afterward, allowing for user-settable thresholds and reduced pin count by combining functions into a single node.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If separate pins are used for receiving threshold voltage and outputting fault signals, then the circuit can perform fault detection functions, but the pin count increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies multi-functionality by configuring a single pin to serve dual purposes: receiving the threshold voltage during an initialization phase and outputting the fault detection signal during the monitoring phase. This is achieved through time-division multiplexing where the pin's function switches based on the operational stage of the circuit, thereby reducing the total pin count while maintaining both threshold reception and fault signal output capabilities
2Device complexity
If a fixed internal threshold is used, then the pin count is reduced, but the threshold cannot be set by the user
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamics by making the threshold value adjustable rather than fixed. The circuit includes a threshold reception stage that allows external input of the threshold voltage through the multi-purpose pin during initialization. This dynamic configuration enables the threshold to be customized according to specific application requirements while still using the same pin for both threshold input and fault output, maintaining low pin count alongside user adaptability
Data Source
AI summary
An integrated circuit includes a monitor node adapted to receive a monitored signal. The integrated circuit also includes a multi-purpose node. The integrated circuit is adapted to receive and store a threshold presented at the multi-purpose node during a first time period. The integrated circuit is also adapted to output a fault signal from the multi-purpose node at a time after the predetermined time period. The fault signal is indicative of a relationship between the monitored signal and the threshold. With this arrangement, the multi-purpose node achieves at least two functions.