Shared-Encoder ADC Circuit for Variable Bit-Length Output

Solution Overview

Problem

Existing analog-to-digital converters require multiple encoders for different binary code lengths, leading to increased circuit scale and complexity.

Innovation Solution

An analog-to-digital converter design that includes a plurality of comparators, an encoder, and a correction circuit, allowing the encoder to be shared across different binary code lengths by adjusting the output through a correction unit, such as an inverter, to generate digital values of varying bit lengths.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If multiple encoders are provided for different binary code lengths, then different binary codes can be generated, but the circuit scale increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvecapability to generate different binary code lengthsVSAvoidcircuit scale

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSArea of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

The encoder is designed to perform multiple functions by generating different binary code lengths through a single unified structure. The encoder receives selection signals that determine whether to output first binary codes or second binary codes, eliminating the need for separate encoders for different code lengths and thereby reducing circuit scale while maintaining adaptability

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Adaptability or versatility

If multiple encoders are provided for different binary code lengths, then different binary codes can be generated, but the device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvecapability to generate different binary code lengthsVSAvoidnumber of encoder components

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The encoder is designed to perform multiple functions by generating different binary code lengths through a single unified structure. The encoder receives selection signals that determine whether to output first binary codes or second binary codes, eliminating the need for separate encoders for different code lengths and thereby reducing circuit scale while maintaining adaptability

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Data Source

PatentUS7474238B2Analog-to-digital converter

Publication Date: 2009.01.06 SEMICON COMPONENTS IND LLC

AI summary

An A-D converter includes a group of resistors, a group of comparators, an encoder and an output unit. The output unit includes a correction circuit. An inverter constitutes the correction circuit. The encoder is shared in a case where the A-D converter converts an inputted analog signal to a two-bit binary code and a case where the A-D converter converts the inputted analog signal to a 4-bit binary code. The correction circuit corrects the output of the encoder when the A-D converter is to convert the inputted analog signal to the 2-bit binary code.