Serial Clock Referenced Internal Oscillator for Flicker Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Devices, such as optical sensors, require a reliable and continuous clock signal to accurately determine the frequency of flicker light, but existing solutions often rely on external clock references that increase complexity and cost, and may not provide sufficient accuracy for subtle ambient lighting frequency detection.
Innovation Solution
A device with digital circuitry that uses either an internal oscillator or a time base signal, where the internal clock signal is adjusted by comparing pulses of an external clock signal, allowing for accurate frequency information of flicker light to be generated and used for data signal correction, without the need for continuous external clock reference, thus reducing complexity and cost.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If an external clock reference is used to provide accurate timing for flicker light detection, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The device uses its own internal oscillator to generate the clock signal required for flicker light detection, eliminating the need for external clock references. The internal oscillator is configured to operate at a frequency suitable for detecting the flicker frequency, allowing the device to be self-sufficient and reduce system complexity while maintaining measurement accuracy.
Solution Approach 2:
The internal oscillator serves multiple functions: it provides timing for the analog-to-digital converter, generates the clock signal for flicker detection, and can be used for other timing operations within the device. This multi-functionality replaces the need for separate external clock sources, reducing device complexity while maintaining measurement precision.
2Reliability
If an external clock reference is used to ensure continuous clock signal, then reliability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The internal oscillator continuously generates the clock signal required for device operation without needing external references. The oscillator is designed to maintain stable operation and provide continuous timing signals for the analog-to-digital converter and flicker detection circuitry, ensuring reliability while eliminating external dependencies.
Solution Approach 2:
The clock signal generation function is merged with the internal oscillator that already exists for other timing operations within the device. By combining these functions into a single internal source, the device achieves reliable continuous clock signal provision without adding separate external clock reference circuitry, thus reducing overall complexity.
3Measurement precision
If external clock reference components are added to improve flicker detection accuracy, then measurement precision is improved, but manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The device utilizes its existing internal oscillator to provide the clock signal for flicker detection, eliminating the need to manufacture and assemble additional external clock reference components. This self-service approach maintains detection accuracy while reducing bill of materials costs and simplifying the manufacturing process.
Solution Approach 2:
The internal oscillator is implemented using standard integrated circuit components that are inexpensive to manufacture and integrate. By using readily available oscillator circuits within the device rather than requiring precision external clock references, the solution achieves accurate flicker detection at a lower manufacturing cost.
Data Source
AI summary
A device comprises a data terminal, a clock terminal and a digital circuitry. The data terminal is configured to be connected to a serial data line. The clock terminal is configured to be connected to a serial clock line for receiving a clock signal. The digital circuitry is coupled to the data terminal and to the clock terminal. The digital circuitry is configured to operate using a time base signal provided via a further clock terminal to the device or using an internal clock signal that is generated by an internal oscillator of the device.Furthermore, a method for operating a device is described.