Phase-Shifted Control Signal Circuit for Flexible Microscope Timing
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing circuits for generating periodic control signals lack flexibility, limiting the ability to produce mutually phase-shifted signals beyond predefined configurations, which is critical for high-accuracy applications like STED and FLIM microscopes.
Innovation Solution
A circuit with multiple generator circuits, each with a phase value memory and activation input, allows for independent configuration and simultaneous activation to produce control signals with defined phase shifts, enabling flexible generation of phase-shifted signals.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a fixed circuit configuration is used to generate control signals, then the circuit structure is simple, but the flexibility to generate different phase-shifted signals is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The circuit is divided into multiple independent generator circuits, each capable of generating control signals with independently adjustable phase shifts. Each generator circuit includes its own phase value memory and control logic, allowing flexible configuration of phase relationships without affecting other channels. This segmentation enables the system to adapt to different phase requirements while maintaining a modular, manageable structure.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple generator circuits with independent phase value memories are used, then the flexibility to generate phase-shifted signals is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Each generator circuit is designed as a universal module capable of generating control signals with any desired phase shift by loading appropriate values into its phase value memory. The same circuit architecture serves multiple functions: generating base control signals, generating phase-shifted signals, and adapting to different operational modes (STED, FLIM, etc.). This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate dedicated circuits for each signal type.
Solution Approach 2:
Phase values are pre-stored in phase value memories before being needed for signal generation. The system prepares and stores the required phase shift values in advance, allowing rapid switching between different phase configurations without real-time calculation. This preliminary action simplifies the real-time control operation while maintaining high flexibility.
Data Source
AI summary
A circuit is configured to generate periodic control signals including at least two mutually phase-shifted control signals. The circuit includes a plurality of generator circuits, where a separate generator circuit is provided for each control signal output by the circuit. Each generator circuit includes a phase value memory configured to store a phase value, where the phase value defines a phase shift. Each generator circuit includes an activation input and, in response to application of an activation level to the activation input, is configured to initiate a generation of a control signal which is phase-shifted by an amount defined by the phase value. The activation inputs of the generator circuits are connected together to an activation circuit for outputting an activation level to the generator circuits simultaneously.