Multi-State IC Package Pin Using Resistor-Coded Input States
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Solution Overview
Problem
There is a challenge in maintaining operational flexibility in integrated circuit packages with reduced pin counts, as smaller packages with fewer pins typically have limited functionality compared to larger packages with more pins, necessitating innovative solutions to enhance flexibility without increasing size or cost.
Innovation Solution
The system incorporates adjustable external resistors, metal oxide semiconductor field effect transistors (MOSFETs), resistor-capacitor circuits, and multiple comparators with different resistor-capacitor circuits, coupled to a voltage divider network, allowing for configuration of a single pin to represent multiple states, thereby increasing operational flexibility.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If package size is reduced and pin count is decreased, then cost and space requirements are reduced, but operational flexibility is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements multi-functionality by enabling a single pin to represent multiple states through external resistor configurations. The pin can indicate different system states (such as battery charge levels, device modes, or operational statuses) by varying the resistance values connected to it, allowing one pin to perform the function of multiple pins would traditionally be needed.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes parameter changes by varying resistance values of external resistors connected to the pin. By changing resistance parameters, the same pin can represent different states, enabling the package to convey multiple pieces of information through a single pin without requiring additional physical pins.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple states are represented by a single pin, then operational flexibility is enhanced, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary mechanism in the form of external resistors that mediate between the system being monitored and the pin. These resistors translate various system states into distinguishable resistance values that the pin can represent, simplifying the internal package design while enabling multi-state representation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces what would traditionally require multiple physical pins (mechanical/connection-based system) with an electrical resistance-based system. Instead of using multiple physical connection points, the invention uses variable resistance values to encode multiple states, substituting a simpler electrical mechanism for a more complex mechanical pin array.
Data Source
AI summary
In examples, an integrated circuit package comprises a pin exposed externally to the package; at least one resistor coupled to the pin at a first end of the resistor; a first transistor coupled to the at least one resistor at a second end of the resistor and coupled to a voltage source; a second transistor coupled to the at least one resistor at the second end of the resistor and coupled to a ground connection, the at least one resistor and the first and second transistors couple at a first node, the first and second transistors are of different types; and multiple comparators, each of the multiple comparators coupled to a voltage divider network and to the pin.