Semiconductor IC Oscillator Circuit for Piezoelectric Vibrator Power Management
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Solution Overview
Problem
Semiconductor integrated circuits used in sensor signal processing often require low power consumption to prolong the lifespan of externally attached piezoelectric vibrators, which are affected by intermittent operation, necessitating a method to minimize adverse effects during periods of inactivity.
Innovation Solution
A semiconductor integrated circuit with an oscillation circuit that alternates between oscillating and not oscillating the vibrator, with potentials of the terminals switched complementarily during active periods and fixed to a low level during inactive periods, using a configuration including a NAND circuit, switches, and resistors to control the oscillation based on a control signal.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Use of energy by moving object
If the semiconductor integrated circuit operates intermittently to reduce power consumption, then power consumption is reduced, but the vibrator may be adversely affected during stopped periods
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the potential parameter of the terminal from high level (during operation) to low level (during stop period). This parameter change ensures that during the stop period, the terminal potential is maintained at low level, preventing adverse effects on the vibrator while achieving power consumption reduction through intermittent operation
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements periodic action by alternately switching between operation period (first period) and stop period (second period). During the operation period, the oscillation circuit normally operates with complementary potential switching. During the stop period, the potential is fixed to low level to protect the vibrator, thus achieving periodic operation that balances power consumption and vibrator lifespan
2Loss of energy
If the oscillation circuit is stopped for extended periods to promote low power consumption, then power consumption is reduced, but charging currents may adversely affect the vibrator
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies parameter change by fixing the terminal potential to low level during the stop period. This parameter change eliminates charging currents that would otherwise flow during extended stop periods, thereby removing the harmful effect on the vibrator while maintaining low 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
This approach reduces power consumption and prolongs the lifespan of the piezoelectric vibrator by eliminating charging currents during inactive periods, thereby enhancing the longevity of the vibrator and the overall sensor system.
Implementation Method 1
the oscillator used in the sensor signal processing apparatus usually has a configuration including a piezoelectric vibrator
Data Source
AI summary
A semiconductor integrated circuit constituting a part of a sensor signal processing apparatus for processing sensor signal output from a sensor includes: a first terminal where one end of a vibrator externally attached to the semiconductor integrated circuit is connected and a second terminal where the other end of the vibrator is connected; and an oscillation circuit oscillating the vibrator connected via the first and second terminals, wherein the oscillator circuit intermittently oscillating the vibrator based on control signal, wherein a first period where the oscillation circuit oscillates the vibrator and a second period where the oscillation circuit does not oscillate the vibrator are alternately switched, wherein, during the first period, potentials of the first and second terminals are alternately switched complementarily to high level and low level, and wherein, during the second period, the potentials of the first terminal and the second terminal are fixed to the low level.