Digital Sensor Hub Pass-Through Mode Multiplexer Logic
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing multi-sensor MEMS systems require a physical modification of the sensor hub to implement the 'pass-through' operating mode, which increases area occupation and is protocol-dependent, limiting flexibility and efficiency.
Innovation Solution
A totally digital implementation of the pass-through operating mode using multiplexers and a direction-control logic module, allowing seamless switching between normal and pass-through modes without altering the physical interconnections or protocol, leveraging existing logic structures.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If physical modification of the sensor hub is implemented to achieve pass-through mode, then direct communication path is established, but area occupation increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical/physical switch implementation with a digital logic implementation using multiplexers and control signals. Instead of physically modifying the sensor hub with analog switches, the invention uses digital signal routing through multiplexer components (18, 19) controlled by digital signals (Sd) to establish the pass-through communication path, thereby eliminating the need for additional physical space while maintaining the same functional capability.
2Adaptability or versatility
If physical modification is used for pass-through mode, then direct connection is achieved, but protocol dependency increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a universal pass-through implementation that works with multiple communication protocols (I2C, SPI, and others) by using protocol-agnostic digital multiplexers and control logic. The same architectural approach (multiplexers 18, 19 with control signal Sd) can be applied regardless of the specific protocol being used, making the sensor hub adaptable to different protocols without requiring protocol-specific physical modifications.
3Ease of operation
If analog switches are added to implement pass-through, then direct path is created, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the pass-through functionality with the existing digital logic infrastructure of the sensor hub by integrating multiplexers and control signals into the existing digital architecture. Instead of adding separate analog switch circuits, the invention combines the switching function with the digital signal processing already present in the system, thereby achieving path switching without proportionally increasing overall device complexity.
Data Source
AI summary
An integrated data concentrator, so-called “sensor hub”, for a multi-sensor MEMS system, implements: a first interface module, for interfacing, in a normal operating mode, with a microprocessor through a first communication bus; and a second interface module, for interfacing, in the normal operating mode, with a plurality of sensors through a second communication bus; the sensor hub further implements a pass-through operating mode, distinct from the normal operating mode, in which it sets the microprocessor in direct communication with the sensors, through the first communication bus and the second communication bus. In particular, the sensor hub implements the direct pass-through operating mode in a totally digital manner.