Ramp Signal Slope Correction for Linear Analog Gain in ADCs
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing electronic devices with analog-to-digital converters (ADCs) face challenges in maintaining linearity of analog gain when the slope of a ramp signal is adjusted, leading to operational reliability issues.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of a ramp signal generation circuit and slope correction circuit that adjust and correct the slope of a ramp signal using variable resistance and current, with multiple resistor parts and correction code signals to maintain constant linearity, allowing for precise control of the ramp signal's slope.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If the slope of the ramp signal is adjusted to change analog gain, then the analog gain can be adapted to different illumination conditions, but the linearity of the analog gain deteriorates due to process variations
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a feedback mechanism where the actual slope of the ramp signal is measured and compared with the target slope. A correction signal is generated based on the difference and fed back to adjust the ramp signal generation, thereby compensating for process variations and maintaining linearity of the analog gain across different operating conditions
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the parameters of the ramp signal (slope, amplitude) dynamically based on the desired analog gain setting. By adjusting these parameters through controlled voltage changes and current modulation in the ramp signal generation circuit, the system achieves adaptability while maintaining linearity through the feedback correction mechanism
2Measurement precision
If the slope of the ramp signal is adjusted using variable resistance or current, then the analog gain can be precisely controlled, but the circuit complexity increases due to additional correction circuits
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the slope correction function into distinct modular blocks: a first slope correction block for primary correction and a second slope correction block for secondary refinement. This segmentation allows each block to handle specific aspects of the correction, achieving high precision while maintaining manageable circuit complexity through functional decomposition
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs dynamic adjustment mechanisms where the ramp signal parameters are continuously modulated based on real-time feedback. Variable resistors and current sources are dynamically controlled to adjust the slope, enabling precise control that adapts to different operating conditions without requiring overly complex static circuit designs
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 solution effectively maintains the linearity of the analog gain, enhancing the operational reliability of electronic devices by correcting slope variations caused by process variations, thereby improving performance.
Implementation Method 1
The ramp signal generation circuit may adjust the slope of the ramp signal on a basis of a variable resistance
Implementation Method 2
a slope correction circuit configured to correct the second slope of the ramp signal by the first level to obtain the first slope
Data Source
AI summary
Provided is an electronic device including a ramp signal generation circuit configured to generate a ramp signal having a second slope that is greater by a first level than a first slope which corresponds to an analog gain, and a slope correction circuit configured to correct the second slope of the ramp signal by the first level to obtain the first slope.