Laser Controller IC with Variable-Resolution ADC Conversion
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional systems face challenges in accurately converting digital values from analog-to-digital converters into real-world units, especially when dealing with non-linear relationships and multiple analog data sources, as they require variable coefficients that are not efficiently supported by existing arithmetic logic units.
Innovation Solution
A data processing device using a look-up table with variable range coefficients, where the range of digital input values is divided into unequal regions, each associated with a set of slope and offset coefficients, allowing for non-linear numerical value conversion through a piecewise-linear approximation, thereby simplifying circuitry and improving accuracy.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If conventional systems use constant coefficients for numerical value conversion, then the circuitry is simple, but the accuracy deteriorates when dealing with non-linear relationships
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the range of digital input values into multiple regions using delimiter values. Each region is associated with a specific set of coefficients stored in the look-up table. This segmentation allows the system to use different coefficients for different input ranges, improving accuracy for non-linear relationships while keeping each individual coefficient set relatively simple.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent pre-calculates and stores multiple sets of coefficients in a look-up table before runtime. These coefficients are prepared in advance based on the desired non-linear conversion characteristics. During operation, the system simply retrieves the appropriate pre-computed coefficients from the table based on the input value's region, avoiding complex real-time calculations.
2Measurement precision
If variable coefficients are used to support non-linear conversion, then the conversion accuracy improves, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a look-up table as an intermediary structure between the input value and the conversion coefficients. Instead of directly computing complex variable coefficients during conversion, the system uses the look-up table to store and retrieve pre-computed coefficients. This intermediary simplifies the coefficient management process while enabling support for non-linear relationships.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the parameter representation by storing coefficients in a structured look-up table format rather than using complex computational formulas. The coefficients are organized as discrete parameters indexed by region, allowing the system to switch between different coefficient sets by changing the active region indicator rather than performing complex parameter transformations.
3Measurement precision
If equal-sized regions are used for coefficient approximation, then the circuitry is simpler, but the accuracy for non-linear relationships deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by allowing different regions to have different characteristics. Specifically, regions are divided with unequal sizes based on the local behavior of the non-linear relationship. Areas where the relationship changes more rapidly are divided into smaller regions with more granular coefficient sets, while flatter regions use larger divisions. This local adaptation improves overall approximation accuracy.
4Adaptability or versatility
If multiple sets of coefficients are stored for multiple units, then the versatility improves, but the memory requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements universality by designing a single look-up table structure that can serve multiple conversion units and functions. The same basic table architecture supports conversion to different physical units (voltage, current, temperature, etc.) by simply changing which coefficient sets are active. This multi-functional design reduces the need for separate dedicated storage for each unit type.
Data Source
AI summary
A device for processing a digital input value includes a first memory portion having stored thereon Q delimiter values where the Q delimiter values divide the range of the N-bit digital input value into Q+1 regions and at least a first region and a second region are of unequal sizes, a second memory portion has stored thereon a look-up table storing Q+1 sets of coefficients for performing numerical value conversion of the digital input value to a digital output value in a second, natural unit, and an arithmetic logic performing numerical value conversion using the N-bit digital input value and the selected coefficient pair. The N-bit digital input value is compared with the Q delimiter values to determine a respective one of the Q+1 regions in which the N-bit digital input value lies. The look-up table is indexed according to the respective region to provide the selected coefficient pair.