Reference Voltage Generator Circuit With Internal Trimming Feedback
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing reference voltage generator circuits face challenges in accurately measuring and adjusting the reference voltage due to low drive capability, which affects the accuracy of trimming adjustments and requires external measuring devices, increasing the number of terminals and pads on semiconductor chips.
Innovation Solution
A reference voltage generator circuit with a resistor circuit, differential amplifier circuit, current source circuit, and an adjuster circuit that compares target voltages with the reference voltage to generate control signals for variable resistors, allowing for accurate trimming adjustments without external measuring devices, reducing the number of terminals and pads.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If external measuring devices are used to measure reference voltage, then measurement accuracy is improved, but device complexity and number of terminals increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the reference voltage measurement function with the internal adjuster circuit by integrating a comparator that can measure the reference voltage against target voltages. This eliminates the need for external measuring devices and reduces terminal count while maintaining measurement capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The reference voltage generator circuit performs its own measurement and adjustment functions through the integrated adjuster circuit and comparator. The circuit self-regulates by comparing the generated reference voltage with target voltages and automatically adjusting variable resistors, eliminating dependency on external measuring equipment.
2Manufacturing precision
If trimming adjustment is performed with high accuracy, then reference voltage precision is improved, but drive current increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs variable resistors with control signals that dynamically adjust resistance values based on comparison results. This dynamic adjustment mechanism enables precise trimming of reference voltage while maintaining low power consumption, as the circuit only actively adjusts when needed rather than requiring continuous high current.
Solution Approach 2:
The adjuster circuit changes the resistance parameters of variable resistors based on comparison outcomes to fine-tune the reference voltage. By modifying resistance values rather than requiring continuous high current flow, the system achieves high adjustment accuracy with minimal power consumption.
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
The solution enables accurate adjustment of the reference voltage while minimizing drive current and eliminating the need for external measuring devices, thus reducing the number of terminals and pads on semiconductor chips, improving accuracy and reducing complexity.
Implementation Method 1
an amplifier circuit that amplifies a voltage of the difference between base-emitter voltages of the two transistors
Implementation Method 2
a band gap reference voltage generator that includes forward-biased PN junction elements of different current densities
Implementation Method 3
generates a thermally compensated output voltage
Implementation Method 4
an adjuster circuit configured to be electrically connected to the output node, the adjuster circuit configured to generate the first control signal by comparing at least two target voltages with the reference voltage
Data Source
AI summary
A reference voltage generator circuit includes: a resistor circuit electrically connected between a first node and a second node and between the first node and a third node, the resistor circuit including a variable resistor whose resistance value varies according to a first control signal; a differential amplifier circuit in which one of a differential input pair is electrically connected to the second node and the other of the differential input pair is electrically connected to the third node, the differential amplifier circuit generating a reference voltage at an output node; a current source circuit electrically connected between the second node and a fourth node and between the third node and the fourth node; and an adjuster circuit configured to be electrically connected to the output node, the adjuster circuit configured to generate the first control signal by comparing at least two target voltages with the reference voltage.