Single-Terminal RC Configuration for Multi-Parameter Devices
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing configurable devices require a dedicated configuration terminal for each parameter, increasing cost and size, particularly in applications like power control and lighting where space and cost are constrained.
Innovation Solution
A programmable device uses a single configuration terminal connected to both a configuration resistor and capacitor in parallel, determining multiple parameter settings based on resistor and capacitor values through voltage signal monitoring, reducing the need for multiple terminals.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a dedicated configuration terminal is used for each parameter, then the configuration reliability is improved, but the device size and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies universality by enabling a single configuration terminal to perform multiple functions: it can configure multiple different parameters (such as frequency, voltage, current) through different external components (resistors, capacitors, inductors) connected to that one terminal. This eliminates the need for separate dedicated terminals for each parameter, thereby reducing device size while maintaining configuration capability and reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges the configuration function for multiple parameters into a single terminal. By combining the configuration capabilities for frequency, voltage, current, and other parameters into one terminal that responds to different external component values, the design consolidates what would traditionally require multiple separate terminals into a single multi-functional terminal, reducing overall device size.
2Reliability
If a dedicated configuration terminal is used for each parameter, then the configuration reliability is improved, but the manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent reduces manufacturing cost by implementing universality - a single terminal structure that can be configured for multiple parameters through external components. This reduces the total number of terminals that need to be manufactured, packaged, and tested, thereby lowering manufacturing costs while maintaining the ability to reliably configure multiple parameters through the same terminal.
Solution Approach 2:
By merging multiple parameter configuration functions into one terminal, the patent reduces the bill of materials and assembly complexity. Fewer terminals mean fewer components to source, assemble, and test during manufacturing, directly reducing production costs while preserving configuration reliability through the multi-functional terminal design.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple configuration terminals are used, then the design flexibility is maintained, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent maintains design flexibility through universality by allowing a single terminal to be configured for different parameters (frequency, voltage, current, etc.) by simply changing the external component connected to it. This provides the same adaptability as having multiple dedicated terminals but with reduced device complexity since only one terminal structure needs to be implemented internally.
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
This approach allows for the configuration of multiple parameters using fewer terminals, thereby reducing the cost and size of programmable devices while maintaining design flexibility.
Implementation Method 1
A single configuration terminal of the programmable device is selectively connected to a configuration resistor and a configuration capacitor in parallel
Implementation Method 2
The programmable device determines the RC time constant value, which is the product of the resistance and the capacitance
Data Source
AI summary
A single configuration terminal of a device is used to configure multiple operating parameters of the device based on a resistor and a capacitor selectively connected to the configuration terminal. The device includes a detection circuit configured to monitor a voltage signal at the configuration terminal to determine multiple values in response to a regulated current source providing a current to the configuration terminal selectively connected to the resistor and the capacitor in parallel, and configure multiple operating parameters based on the determined values. A method for configuring operating parameters using a single configuration terminal of a device includes providing a current to the configuration terminal selectively connected to a resistor and a capacitor in parallel, monitoring a voltage signal at the configuration terminal, determining multiple values based on the monitoring, and configuring multiple operating parameter based on the determined values.