Single-Crystal Frequency Generator for Low-Power Clock Calibration
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing electronic systems require multiple crystal frequency sources to generate various frequencies, leading to high power consumption, phase noise, and reduced stability, with no viable techniques to eliminate the need for multiple crystals.
Innovation Solution
A micro-power integrated circuit frequency generator using a single high frequency quartz crystal to generate multiple clock frequencies, eliminating the need for multiple crystals by employing a single crystal with semiconductor technology, which reduces power consumption and improves stability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a high frequency crystal is used to generate reference frequency, then phase noise and stability are improved, but power consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system segments the crystal usage into two modes: a high frequency crystal is used only during active operation to provide stable reference frequency, while a low frequency crystal is used during power-off mode for timekeeping. This segmentation allows the high frequency crystal to be turned off during low-power periods, resolving the contradiction between stability and power consumption.
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically switches between different crystal frequency sources based on operational state. During active mode, the high frequency crystal provides stable reference; during power-off mode, the low frequency crystal maintains timekeeping with minimal power consumption. This dynamic adaptation resolves the static contradiction between power consumption and stability requirements.
2Use of energy by moving object
If a low frequency crystal is used to reduce power consumption, then power consumption decreases, but phase noise and stability deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The system segments the operational requirements into two parts: timekeeping function handled by the low frequency crystal during power-off mode, and reference frequency generation handled by the high frequency crystal during active mode. This segmentation allows each crystal to operate in its optimal performance range, with the low frequency crystal achieving low power consumption without compromising overall system stability.
Solution Approach 2:
The high frequency crystal acts as an intermediary that periodically calibrates the low frequency crystal's timekeeping function. During active mode, the high frequency crystal's stable reference frequency is used to correct drift in the low frequency crystal, thereby maintaining accuracy without requiring the low frequency crystal to operate continuously at high power.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple crystal frequency sources are used to generate various frequencies, then frequency versatility is improved, but device complexity and board space increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system implements multi-functionality by using a single high frequency crystal to serve multiple purposes: generating reference frequency during active mode and calibrating the low frequency crystal during power-off mode. The low frequency crystal simultaneously provides timekeeping during power-off mode and can be calibrated by the high frequency crystal. This universal approach eliminates the need for separate crystals for each function, reducing complexity while maintaining versatility.
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 solution enables the generation of low frequencies with high accuracy and low power consumption, reducing board space and increasing reliability by using a single crystal, while maintaining comparable performance to multiple crystals, especially in power-off modes.
Implementation Method 1
A micro-power integrated circuit frequency generator using a single high frequency quartz crystal to generate multiple clock frequencies
Data Source
AI summary
An integrated circuit frequency generator is disclosed. In some embodiments, the frequency generator comprises an electronic oscillator configured to generate an oscillator frequency and calibration circuitry configured to periodically calibrate the electronic oscillator with respect to a reference frequency source. When a primary power source is unavailable, an output frequency is generated from the oscillator frequency, and the reference frequency source is periodically pulse powered-on to calibrate the electronic oscillator.