Inertial Detection Circuit Using Dual-Frequency Diagnostic Signals

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing inertial sensors face complexity in diagnosing abnormality of detectors, which complicates their configuration.

Innovation Solution

An inertial detection circuit and method that uses a signal generator to apply drive and test voltages of different frequencies to a detector's electrodes, enabling simultaneous detection and diagnosis of abnormality by processing electrical signals from the detector.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If a configuration for diagnosing abnormality is added to the detector itself, then abnormality diagnosis capability is improved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveabnormality diagnosis capabilityVSAvoiddetector configuration complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent divides the abnormality diagnosis function into separate processing units outside the detector structure. The detection signal processing and diagnostic signal processing are performed by distinct circuits in the signal processing unit, rather than embedding diagnosis functionality within the detector itself. This segmentation maintains detector simplicity while achieving comprehensive abnormality diagnosis capability through external processing.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent introduces an intermediary signal processing unit that acts as a mediator between the detector and the abnormality diagnosis function. This unit receives both detection signals and diagnostic signals from the detector, processes them separately through dedicated processing circuits, and performs abnormality diagnosis based on the processed diagnostic signals. The intermediary structure allows complex diagnosis functionality without complicating the detector configuration.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Reliability

If test voltage is applied to diagnose abnormality, then abnormality detection is improved, but interference with inertial force measurement occurs

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveabnormality detection accuracyVSAvoidinertial force measurement accuracy
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSMeasurement precision

Solution Approach 1:

The patent employs periodic action by applying test voltage only during specific time intervals when abnormality diagnosis is required, rather than continuously. The signal processing unit periodically switches between processing detection signals (for inertial force measurement) and diagnostic signals (for abnormality diagnosis). This periodic separation ensures that test voltage application for diagnosis does not interfere with continuous inertial force measurement accuracy.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #19Periodic action

Solution Approach 2:

The patent implements preliminary action by performing abnormality diagnosis at predetermined intervals or before critical measurements. The control unit determines appropriate timing for applying test voltage based on operational conditions, ensuring diagnosis occurs when interference with inertial force measurement is minimal. This preliminary or scheduled diagnosis approach maintains measurement precision while achieving reliable abnormality detection.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

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

Simplifies the detector configuration, enhances detection accuracy, and reduces the risk of interference from test voltages, allowing for more precise inertial force measurement.

Implementation Method 1

a drive voltage generator configured to apply to the fixed electrode a drive voltage with a first frequency to make the moving electrode vibrate

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectVibration: Vibration

Implementation Method 2

a test voltage generator configured to apply to the fixed electrode a test voltage with a second frequency lower than the first frequency to make the moving electrode vibrate

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectVibration: Vibration

Implementation Method 3

the detector is configured to convert an inertial force to an electrical signal... detecting a capacitance between the fixed electrode and the moving electrode

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectCapacitance: Capacitance

Data Source

PatentUS12510559B2Inertial detection circuit, inertial sensor, and inertial detection method
Publication Date: 2025.12.30 PANASONIC INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY MANAGEMENT CO LTD
  • US12510559B2 patent drawing
  • US12510559B2 patent drawing
  • US12510559B2 patent drawing

AI summary

An inertial detection circuit includes a signal generator and a processing unit. The signal generator includes a drive voltage generator and a test voltage generator. The drive voltage generator applies to the fixed electrode a drive voltage with a first frequency. The test voltage generator applies to the fixed electrode a test voltage with a second frequency lower than the first frequency. The processing unit includes a detection processor and a diagnostic processor. The detection processor performs a detection processing of detecting a capacitance between the fixed electrode and the moving electrode based on a detection signal. The diagnostic processor performs a diagnostic processing of diagnosing abnormality of the detector based on a diagnostic signal.