Signal Conversion Circuit Using Switched Capacitors for Multi-Array Readout
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing signal readout circuits are not versatile enough to handle output signals from different sensing arrays, requiring separate designs for each type of signal, which increases development time and cost.
Innovation Solution
A signal conversion circuit with an operational amplifier, input and feedback switched capacitors, and a pulse signal module that adjusts equivalent impedance through clock pulse signals, allowing the same operational amplifier to be used with different sensing arrays by changing other circuit elements.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If separate signal readout circuits are designed for each type of sensing array, then signal processing accuracy is improved, but device complexity and development cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a universal signal readout circuit that can process multiple types of sensing array outputs (charge signals, current signals, and voltage signals) through a single integrated design. The circuit uses configurable components including switched capacitors that can be set to different impedance values, and multiple signal paths that can be selectively activated based on the input signal type. This allows one circuit to perform the functions previously requiring separate dedicated circuits for each signal type.
Solution Approach 2:
The circuit employs dynamic switching mechanisms using switches and capacitors that can change their configuration based on the input signal type. The switched capacitors can be connected or disconnected from different nodes, and their equivalent impedance can be dynamically adjusted to match the characteristics of the connected sensing array, enabling the same circuit to adapt to different signal sources.
2Measurement precision
If separate signal readout circuits are designed for each type of sensing array, then signal processing accuracy is improved, but development time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The universal circuit design eliminates the need to develop separate circuits for different sensing array types. By implementing a single circuit that can handle charge, current, and voltage signals through configurable components, the development time is significantly reduced compared to creating multiple dedicated circuits.
Solution Approach 2:
The circuit uses parameter-configurable components such as switched capacitors with adjustable equivalent impedance and controllable gain stages. By changing the configuration parameters (switch states, capacitor connections, impedance values) rather than redesigning the entire circuit, the same hardware can be adapted to different sensing array types, reducing development time.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the signal readout circuit is designed to handle multiple signal types, then adaptability is improved, but circuit complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The circuit is divided into functional segments including separate input paths for different signal types, configurable impedance matching stages, and selective signal routing. Each segment can be independently configured or activated based on the input signal type, making the overall complexity manageable through modular functional decomposition.
Solution Approach 2:
The circuit introduces intermediary switching elements and buffer stages that mediate between different signal types and the core processing circuitry. These intermediaries (switches, capacitors, buffer amplifiers) act as adaptors that translate different input signal characteristics into a unified format suitable for the main processing path, reducing the apparent complexity of handling multiple signal types.
4Adaptability or versatility
If switched capacitors with adjustable impedance are used, then signal conversion flexibility is improved, but manufacturing precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The circuit incorporates feedback mechanisms through the operational amplifiers and configurable feedback paths that can compensate for variations in capacitor impedance. By using feedback to actively adjust and stabilize the signal conversion, the system becomes less sensitive to manufacturing tolerances of the passive components, allowing for greater flexibility without proportionally increasing precision requirements.
Solution Approach 2:
The circuit achieves signal conversion flexibility primarily through changing the configuration parameters (switch states, connection topologies) rather than relying solely on precise fixed component values. The switched capacitors can be connected in different configurations to provide multiple impedance values, and the operational amplifiers can adjust gain parameters to compensate for impedance variations, reducing the stringency of manufacturing precision requirements.
Data Source
AI summary
A signal conversion circuit and a signal readout circuit are provided. The signal conversion circuit includes: an operational amplifier, configured to amplify an electric signal output by a sensing array; an input switched capacitor, wherein an end of the input switched capacitor is configured to receive the electric signal output by the sensing array, and another end of the input switched capacitor is coupled with an input end of the operational amplifier; and a feedback switched capacitor, wherein an end of the feedback switched capacitor is coupled with the input end of the operational amplifier, and another end of the feedback switched capacitor is coupled with an output end of the operational amplifier.