Passive Component Redundancy With Voltage-Based Fault Switching
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Solution Overview
Problem
Electronic devices with passive fundamental components, such as capacitors and resistors, are prone to failure due to increased signal frequencies and reduced voltage levels, leading to nonfunctional devices and associated costs, despite passing manufacturing tests.
Innovation Solution
Incorporating redundant passive fundamental components and fault-tolerant circuitry that detects faults by monitoring voltage levels and switches in functional components, ensuring continuous operation by replacing faulty components with redundant ones.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If signal frequencies are increased and voltage levels are reduced to improve processing performance and lower power usage, then processing performance and power efficiency are improved, but circuitry becomes more prone to failure and reliability deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by implementing fault detection circuitry that proactively monitors passive fundamental components before they fail. The system continuously checks voltage levels across components and identifies potential failures early, allowing preventive replacement before the component actually fails and causes device malfunction.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements beforehand cushioning by incorporating redundant passive fundamental components that serve as backup replacements. When a component is detected as faulty, the redundant component immediately takes over, cushioning against the impact of component failure and maintaining continuous device operation without interruption.
2Productivity
If the size of fundamental components is decreased to improve processing performance or lower power usage, then processing performance and power efficiency are improved, but the likelihood of failure increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies copying by creating redundant copies of passive fundamental components. Each critical passive component has a backup copy that is identical in function and specifications. When the original small-sized component fails, the copied replacement immediately assumes its function, allowing the system to maintain high processing performance with miniaturized components while compensating for their increased failure rate through redundancy.
3Reliability
If component redundancy and fault tolerant circuitry are implemented to improve reliability, then reliability and longevity are enhanced, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies self-service by implementing automatic fault detection and component switching without requiring external intervention. The fault detection circuitry autonomously monitors component health, identifies failures, and triggers switching to redundant components automatically. This self-service approach manages the complexity of redundant circuitry through automation, reducing the need for complex manual control mechanisms while maintaining high reliability.
4Manufacturing precision
If manufacturing tests are performed to ensure component reliability, then initial quality is improved, but components can still fail after shipment despite passing tests
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies feedback by implementing continuous monitoring of passive fundamental components after the device has been shipped and is in use. The fault detection circuitry provides real-time feedback on component status, allowing the system to identify and respond to failures that occur despite passing manufacturing tests. This ongoing feedback mechanism bridges the gap between initial manufacturing quality assurance and long-term reliability in the field.
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
This approach enhances the reliability and longevity of electronic devices by maintaining functionality even after manufacturing-based reliability tests, reducing customer dissatisfaction and return rates.
Implementation Method 1
Fault detection can be based on a voltage level associated with a terminal of the passive fundamental component that is monitored while a current is routed toward the terminal
Data Source
AI summary
An apparatus is disclosed for making circuitry with passive fundamental components more robust. In example implementations, an apparatus includes at least one passive fundamental component and at least one redundant passive fundamental component. The apparatus also includes fault tolerant circuitry coupled to the at least one passive fundamental component and the at least one redundant passive fundamental component. The fault tolerant circuitry includes fault detection circuitry configured to detect a fault of the at least one passive fundamental component. The fault tolerant circuitry also includes component repair circuitry configured to disconnect the at least one passive fundamental component based on the fault.