Oscillator Circuit for CI Value Testing Without Extra Terminals
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Solution Overview
Problem
In quartz crystal oscillators, downsizing the package makes it difficult to provide a dedicated terminal for testing the CI value, and existing methods require external devices to measure current flowing through the resonator's electrode, increasing testing complexity and costs.
Innovation Solution
A circuit device with a first terminal, a first oscillation circuit for automatic gain control, a digital signal generation circuit, and an interface circuit outputs a digital signal corresponding to the CI value, allowing for CI value testing without a dedicated terminal and eliminating the need for external current measurement instruments.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a dedicated terminal is provided for testing the CI value, then testing accuracy is improved, but device complexity and package size increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies multi-functionality by enabling existing terminals (such as the output terminal or control terminal) to serve dual purposes: their original functions plus CI value testing. The controller detects whether a test command is received and configures the terminal to output either the original signal or the CI value data, allowing one terminal to perform multiple functions without adding dedicated test terminals.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges the CI value testing function with the existing terminal structure by integrating the detection and output capabilities into the controller that manages the oscillation circuit. Instead of separating testing functionality into dedicated terminals, the controller combines the testing logic with the existing terminal control, reducing overall device complexity while maintaining testing accuracy.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a dedicated terminal is provided for testing the CI value, then testing capability is improved, but ease of manufacture deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The existing terminals are designed to perform their original functions while also being capable of CI value testing through controller configuration. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for additional dedicated test terminals, simplifying the manufacturing process and package assembly while maintaining full testing capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The testing functionality is merged into the existing terminal infrastructure and controller logic, rather than being implemented as separate dedicated components. This integration reduces the number of components that need to be manufactured and assembled, improving ease of manufacture while preserving comprehensive testing capabilities.
3Measurement precision
If external current measurement instruments are used, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity and testing cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The controller acts as an intermediary between the oscillation circuit and the external testing device. Instead of requiring external instruments to directly measure current, the controller internally detects the CI value by analyzing signals from the oscillation circuit and outputs the processed data through existing terminals. This intermediary function eliminates the need for complex external current measurement equipment while maintaining measurement precision.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces physical current measurement (which would require external electrical measurement instruments) with a signal-based detection method. The controller detects the CI value by analyzing voltage or signal characteristics from the oscillation circuit through software/control logic, substituting complex external measurement hardware with simpler integrated electronic detection and processing.
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 accurate CI value testing without a dedicated terminal, reduces testing complexity and costs, and facilitates downsizing of the oscillator package by using the existing terminal structure for outputting the digital signal, thereby simplifying the testing process.
Implementation Method 1
a resonator 3
Implementation Method 2
a first oscillation circuit oscillating the resonator 3 and generating a first voltage for automatic gain control for controlling amplitude of a signal output from the resonator 3
Data Source
AI summary
A circuit device includes a first terminal, a first oscillation circuit oscillating a resonator and generating a first voltage for automatic gain control for controlling amplitude of a signal output from the resonator, a digital signal generation circuit generating a digital signal corresponding to the first voltage, and a first interface circuit outputting the digital signal to the first terminal.