Multiplexer-Capacitor Circuit for A/D Signal Noise Isolation

Resolve Bottlenecks,
Find Innovative Solutions
Generate Solutions

Solution Overview

Problem

Existing circuits used to reduce noise in analog signals for A/D converters are cumbersome and prone to malfunctions due to the large number of components required, which increases the likelihood of component failure and occupies excessive space, especially when connecting multiple sensors to a single A/D converter.

Innovation Solution

A circuit utilizing two Single-Pole Multi-Throw (SPMT) multiplexers and a capacitor to isolate noise, where the electrical signal from sensors is transmitted to the multiplexers and stored charge is discharged to the A/D converter, effectively reducing signal noise through a more compact and reliable design.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Object-affected harmful factors

If traditional electronic circuits with multiple switches are used to minimize noise in analog signals, then signal noise is reduced, but the number of components increases significantly

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesignal noiseVSAvoidnumber of components
Core Design Contradiction:
Object-affected harmful factorsVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines multiple switch functions into a single analog multiplexer device. Instead of using two SPDT switches per sensor, the invention uses one analog multiplexer that can handle multiple sensor channels simultaneously, reducing the total component count while maintaining noise isolation functionality

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The analog multiplexer serves multiple functions: it acts as a signal router for multiple sensors, provides noise isolation through its internal architecture, and enables sequential sampling of multiple channels. This multi-functional approach replaces what previously required multiple dedicated switches

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Object-affected harmful factors

If more components are included in the circuit to reduce noise, then signal noise is minimized, but the probability of component failure increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesignal noiseVSAvoidcircuit reliability
Core Design Contradiction:
Object-affected harmful factorsVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

By merging multiple switch functions into a single multiplexer IC, the invention reduces the total number of discrete components that could fail. The multiplexer is implemented as an integrated circuit with internally connected components, reducing external connection points and potential failure modes

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

3Object-affected harmful factors

If traditional circuits with many switches are used, then noise isolation is achieved, but the circuit size and circuit board area increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesignal noiseVSAvoidcircuit board area
Core Design Contradiction:
Object-affected harmful factorsVSArea of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

The invention consolidates multiple switch functions into a single multiplexer component, dramatically reducing the physical space required on the circuit board. Instead of requiring separate switch components and their associated mounting space for each sensor channel, one multiplexer handles all channels

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The multiplexer integrates multiple switch functions within a single component housing, similar to nested dolls. The internal architecture contains multiple independently controllable channels packed within one physical device, reducing overall footprint

Inventive Principle:
Principle #7Nested doll (Nesting)

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 proposed solution significantly reduces signal noise while minimizing the number of components, enhancing reliability and reducing circuit size, making it suitable for applications with multiple sensors.

Implementation Method 1

a capacitor operably connected to a pole of the first multiplexer and a pole of the second multiplexer

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectCapacitance: Capacitance

Data Source

PatentUS7498806B2Apparatus and method for isolating noise from a signal
Publication Date: 2009.03.03 SPX CORP
  • US7498806B2 patent drawing
  • US7498806B2 patent drawing
  • US7498806B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A circuit is provided for isolating noise from an input signal to an Analog/Digital (A/D) converter. The circuit includes a plurality of multiplexers and a capacitor connected between the poles of two Single-Pole Multi-Throw (SPMT) multiplexers. A method is also provided for isolating noise from an input signal to the A/D converter using the circuit. The method includes storing a charge in the capacitor and discharging the charge to an A/D converter used to control a system or device.