Single-Pole Current Source with Shared Base Potential
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current single-pole current sources for measuring devices face challenges in cost-effectiveness, stability, and linearity due to the need for precise components and amplifiers, especially in temperature drift and measurement uncertainties.
Innovation Solution
A closed-loop controlled, single-pole current output apparatus that connects the controller and measuring resistor to a shared base-potential (VGND), eliminating the need for an amplifier by using a shared reference potential, and incorporating an adjustable resistor and voltage reserve to ensure stable current control.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If an amplifier is used to measure the output signal at the measuring resistor in a single-pole current source, then measurement precision can be improved, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the amplifier from the system by using a different measurement approach. Instead of using an amplifier to measure the voltage at the measuring resistor, the invention connects the controller directly to the measuring resistor, allowing the controller to measure the voltage drop without requiring an intermediate amplification stage. This eliminates the amplifier component while maintaining measurement capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a new intermediary element - the shared base-potential connection - that enables direct communication between the controller and measuring resistor. By establishing a common reference potential (VGND) that both the controller and measuring resistor share, the system enables direct voltage measurement at the measuring resistor without requiring an amplifier as an intermediary component.
2Manufacturing precision
If components with close tolerances are used in open-loop controlled current sources, then manufacturing precision can be improved, but cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements closed-loop feedback control where the controller continuously measures the actual output current via the measuring resistor and compares it with the desired current value. Based on this feedback, the controller adjusts the adjuster to maintain the desired current level. This feedback mechanism allows the use of standard tolerance components while achieving high precision through active control, eliminating the need for expensive close-tolerance components.
3Ease of operation
If a fixed reference potential is used for the controller while the measuring resistor is at a different potential, then ease of operation can be improved, but measurement precision deteriorates due to potential differences
Solution Approach 1:
The patent establishes equipotentiality between the controller and measuring resistor by connecting both to the same shared base-potential (VGND). This common reference potential ensures that both components operate at the same electrical potential, eliminating potential differences that would cause measurement errors. The shared ground connection creates an equipotential reference plane that enables accurate direct measurement without requiring amplifiers or complex potential matching circuits.
Data Source
AI summary
An apparatus for issuance of at least one electrical output signal (Iout), wherein the desired electrical current level of the output signal (Iout) is predeterminable, including: at least one measuring resistor, at which the electrical current level of the output signal (Iout) is measurable; at least one adjuster, via which the electrical current level of the output signal (Iout) is settable; and at least one controller, which compares the electrical current level of the output signal (Iout) measured at the measuring resistor with the electrical current level desired for the output signal (Iout), and which controls the electrical current level of the output signal (Iout) via the adjuster; wherein the controller and the measuring resistor are connected with an electric base-potential (VGND); and wherein the base-potential (VGND) is a reference potential for the controller.