Sensor Interface Address Configuration Circuit Without Dedicated Pins
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing methods for configuring the identification address of sensor interface devices require dedicated address configuration pins, which increase costs and package size, and there is a need for a cost-effective and pin-reduced solution to address unique device identification in multi-device systems.
Innovation Solution
The configuration of the identification address is achieved by the order of connection of the DXP1 and DXN1 pins to the electrodes of the sensor, using a sensor signal processing circuit and comparator to produce a unique address without the need for dedicated pins, through current sourcing and mapping circuitry that compares voltages to determine the address.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If dedicated address configuration pins are used, then device identification capability is ensured, but package pin count and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The sensor terminals DXP1 and DXN1 are designed to serve dual purposes: they function as connection interfaces for external sensors during normal operation and simultaneously serve as address configuration inputs during device initialization. By forcing current through these terminals and detecting voltage levels, the system determines device address without requiring separate dedicated address pins, thus achieving multi-functionality and reducing overall pin count.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent combines the sensor connection function and address configuration function into a single set of terminals (DXP1 and DXN1). Instead of having separate address pins, the same terminals used to connect external sensors are also used to input address information by connecting them to specific voltage levels (VDD or ground) during configuration, thereby merging two functions into one interface.
2Adaptability or versatility
If dedicated address configuration pins are used, then address configurability is achieved, but manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The same terminals DXP1 and DXN1 that connect external sensors are also used for address configuration, eliminating the need for separate address pins. This multi-functionality reduces the total number of pins required, simplifying package design and reducing manufacturing costs while maintaining full address configurability through voltage level detection during initialization.
Solution Approach 2:
The device performs self-identification by automatically detecting its address configuration through the voltage levels present on its sensor terminals during power-up. The internal current forcing circuitry and comparator automatically determine the address based on terminal connections, eliminating the need for external configuration components or complex programming, thereby reducing manufacturing complexity and cost.
3Quantity of substance
If sensor terminals are used for address configuration, then pin count is reduced, but voltage detection accuracy must be maintained
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary comparator circuit that accurately detects voltage levels on the sensor terminals during address configuration. The comparator compares the terminal voltage against a reference voltage to determine whether the terminal is connected to VDD or ground, providing precise digital identification of the address configuration despite the shared use of sensor terminals for both sensing and configuration purposes.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces physical dedicated address pins with electrical voltage level detection on existing sensor terminals. Instead of using separate mechanical connection points for address configuration, the system uses electrical signals (voltage levels) on the sensor terminals themselves, detected through current forcing and voltage comparison, thereby substituting a electrical measurement system for what would traditionally require separate physical configuration pins.
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 the number of package pins and costs by eliminating the need for dedicated address configuration pins, allowing for unique device identification in multi-device systems while maintaining system functionality.
Implementation Method 1
current is forced through the first pin to produce either a high or low voltage on the first pin depending on the order of connection
Implementation Method 2
A voltage on the first pin is compared with a reference voltage to produce a comparison signal
Data Source
AI summary
An identification address of a sensor interface device is configured in response to the order of connection of first (DXP1) and second (DXN1) package pins to electrodes of a sensor (Q0). A sensor signal processing circuit (23) has first and second inputs coupled through the first and second pins to the sensor for converting a parameter sensed by the sensor to a different representation. A current is forced through the first pin to produce either a high or low voltage on the first pin depending on the order of connection of the first and second pins to the electrodes of the sensor. A voltage on the first pin is compared with a reference voltage to produce a comparison signal which is mapped to produce the identification address.