Switched Signal Detection Circuit for Process-Variation Error Reduction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing signal detection circuits face significant errors due to process variation when comparing signal amplitudes from independent current paths, which are not adequately addressed by current circuit designs.
Innovation Solution
A signal detection circuit design that uses an input switch circuit to alternately select and output reference and input voltages in different phases, allowing them to experience the same circuit offset through a shared back-end circuit, thereby reducing errors caused by process variation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If two independent current paths are provided for signal and reference voltage, then signal amplitude comparison can be performed, but process variation causes large errors in measurement precision
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the reference voltage path and input signal path into a single current path, allowing both signals to share the same circuit components and experience identical process variations. This combining approach eliminates the measurement errors caused by independent path variations while maintaining the ability to perform accurate signal amplitude comparison through sequential sampling in different phases.
2Productivity
If independent current paths are used for reference and input signals, then simultaneous signal processing is enabled, but device complexity increases with separate circuit components
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs periodic switching action controlled by a clock signal to alternately connect the reference voltage and input signal to the detection circuit. This periodic multiplexing enables sequential processing of both signals through shared components, achieving the functionality of independent paths while reducing device complexity. The switching operation occurs in different phases within each clock period, maintaining productivity without requiring separate circuit components.
Data Source
AI summary
A signal detection circuit is provided, and includes an input switch circuit, an amplitude detection circuit, a clock generating circuit, and an integration circuit. The input switch circuit receives a reference voltage and an input voltage and selectively outputs the reference voltage or the input voltage. The amplitude detection circuit detects an output of the input switch circuit to generate an amplitude voltage. The clock generating circuit controls the input switch circuit to alternately enter first and second phases, the input switch circuit is controlled to output the reference voltage in the first phase, and output the input voltage in the second phase. The integration circuit receives the amplitude voltage as an input, and generates an integration voltage corresponding to an accumulation result within a predetermined time interval. The predetermined time interval includes at least one period that cycles between the first phase and the second phase.