MEMS Sensor With Selective Reading Chains For Power And Precision Tradeoffs
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Solution Overview
Problem
MEMS inertial sensors are limited by rigidity in performance, sensitivity, scale, and noise rejection, making them inflexible for various applications, such as image stabilization, gaming, and emergency functions, which require different types of performance and power consumption levels.
Innovation Solution
A microelectromechanical sensor with a supporting structure and sensing masses elastically coupled, featuring multiple reading chains with different operative parameters and a selective electrical connection structure, allowing for flexible use by adjusting gains, noise levels, and performance characteristics.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a single MEMS sensor is designed for high sensitivity and precision (e.g., image stabilization), then measurement precision is improved, but power consumption increases and the sensor cannot simultaneously perform other functions like gaming or emergency detection
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic reconfiguration of the MEMS sensor system by selectively activating different reading chains based on the detected motion characteristics. The system transitions between different operational modes (high-precision mode for image stabilization, low-power mode for other functions) according to real-time motion analysis, optimizing the balance between measurement precision and power consumption
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the operational parameters of the MEMS sensor by switching between different reading chains with distinct gain values and filtering characteristics. This allows the system to adapt its sensitivity and noise rejection parameters dynamically, enabling high precision when needed while consuming less power during normal operation
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple reading chains with different operative parameters are added to enable flexible performance adjustment, then adaptability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the reading function into multiple independent reading chains, each optimized for specific operational requirements (e.g., high-gain for precision, low-gain for power saving). This segmentation allows selective activation of only the necessary reading chain based on current application needs, managing complexity through functional decomposition
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a universal MEMS sensor platform that can perform multiple functions (image stabilization, gaming control, emergency detection, pedometer) through a single device. The multi-functionality is achieved by incorporating multiple reading chains that can be selectively activated, allowing one sensor to serve diverse applications without requiring separate dedicated sensors
3Measurement precision
If high gain is used to detect small movements for image stabilization, then measurement precision is improved, but noise rejection deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies different quality characteristics to different reading chains: one reading chain is optimized with high gain for detecting small movements (image stabilization), while another reading chain is optimized with noise rejection characteristics for other functions. Each reading chain has locally optimized parameters suited to its specific function, resolving the conflict between precision and noise rejection
4Reliability
If the sensor operates continuously for monitoring functions, then reliability is improved, but power consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements periodic action by using motion detection to trigger selective activation of reading chains. Instead of continuous operation, the system periodically monitors motion characteristics and activates the appropriate reading chain only when motion is detected, enabling reliable monitoring functionality while significantly reducing overall power consumption during static periods
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
Enables the use of a single microelectromechanical sensor for diverse applications by optimizing performance and power consumption, accommodating different types of movements and functions simultaneously, such as precise image stabilization and rapid gaming controls.
Implementation Method 1
a first sensing mass, elastically coupled to the supporting structure, movable with respect to the supporting structure according to a first degree of freedom, in response to movements of the supporting structure
Implementation Method 2
coupled to the supporting structure through a first capacitive coupling variable as a function of a relative position of the first sensing mass with respect to the supporting structure
Data Source
AI summary
A microelectromechanical sensor includes a supporting structure and a sensing mass, which is elastically coupled to the supporting structure, is movable with respect thereto with one degree of freedom in response to movements according to an axis and is coupled to the supporting structure through a capacitive coupling. A sensing device senses, on terminals of the capacitive coupling, transduction signals indicative of displacements of the first sensing mass according to the degree of freedom. The sensing device includes at least one first reading chain, having first operative parameters, one second reading chain, having second operative parameters different from the first operative parameters, and one selective electrical connection structure that couples the first reading chain and the second reading chain to the first terminals.