Sensor Output Compensation Circuit for Thermistor-Free IC Integration
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing sensor output compensation circuits using thermistor elements for temperature compensation are limited in temperature range, vary in compensation characteristics, and are difficult to integrate into IC form due to size and cost constraints.
Innovation Solution
A sensor output compensation circuit that includes a differential amplifier circuit, temperature sensor circuit, and temperature coefficient sensitivity compensation circuit to uniformly provide sensitivity temperature compensation across all temperature regions, eliminating the need for thermistor elements and allowing integration as an IC.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a thermistor element is used for temperature compensation, then temperature compensation can be provided, but the temperature range is limited and compensation precision varies
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the temperature compensation function from the thermistor element and implements it separately using a temperature detection element and compensation circuit. This separation allows the use of more precise temperature detection and compensation mechanisms without being constrained by thermistor characteristics, thereby improving compensation precision across a wider temperature range.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the parameter of temperature compensation from relying on thermistor resistance characteristics to using a dedicated temperature detection element with more stable and precise temperature-detection parameters. This parameter change enables more accurate temperature compensation across extended temperature ranges.
2Reliability
If a thermistor element is used for temperature compensation, then temperature compensation is achieved, but the circuit size and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes the temperature detection element serve multiple functions: it detects temperature for compensation purposes and can also provide temperature information for other circuit adjustments. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate dedicated components, thereby reducing overall circuit size and complexity while maintaining compensation reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses a temperature detection element that can be implemented as a simple resistive element or diode, which is a simplified copy or alternative to the more complex thermistor element. This substitution reduces component complexity and allows for easier IC integration while maintaining the essential temperature detection function.
3Reliability
If a thermistor element is used for temperature compensation, then temperature compensation is provided, but IC integration becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the temperature compensation function from the thermistor element structure and implements it as a separate functional block using a temperature detection element and compensation circuit. This extraction enables the compensation function to be implemented using standard IC-compatible components and processes, significantly improving ease of manufacture and IC integration.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical/physical thermistor element with an electronic temperature detection element and compensation circuit that can be fully integrated into IC technology. This substitution transitions from a discrete component approach to an integrated electronic approach, greatly enhancing manufacturability and IC compatibility.
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 circuit provides precise sensitivity temperature compensation across all temperature regions, reducing size and cost while ensuring consistent performance without thermistor element reliance.
Implementation Method 1
a temperature sensor circuit to detect ambient temperature
Implementation Method 2
a temperature coefficient sensitivity compensation circuit to apply, to two power terminals of the sensor, a bias voltage to cancel a variation in sensitivity of the sensor output as the ambient temperature changes
Implementation Method 3
a differential amplifier circuit to amplify, as a sensor output, a differential voltage between detection voltages measured in two detection signal output terminals
Data Source
AI summary
A sensor output compensation circuit includes a differential amplifier circuit to amplify, as a sensor output, a differential voltage between detection voltages measured in two detection signal output terminals of a sensor including a sensor element that has a resistance value that changes depending on a detected physical quantity and that is connected by bridge connection, a temperature sensor circuit to detect an ambient temperature, and a temperature coefficient sensitivity compensation circuit to apply, to two power terminals of the sensor, a bias voltage to cancel a variation in sensitivity of the sensor output as the ambient temperature changes, based on the ambient temperature that is detected by the temperature sensor circuit.