Temperature Detector Using Current Mirrors for Low Voltage Accuracy
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing temperature detectors face challenges in accurately detecting temperature variations, especially under low power voltage conditions and large input voltage levels, which affects the performance of electronic devices.
Innovation Solution
A temperature detector system comprising temperature-dependent and independent current mirrors, pulse generators, comparators, and a phase detector, where the controller adjusts the output current of the second current mirror based on the relative timing of pulses generated by the first and second pulse generators, allowing for precise temperature calculation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If voltage dividers are used for temperature detection, then the detection range can be extended, but the design becomes more difficult under low power voltage conditions
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the traditional voltage divider approach with a current mirror-based detection mechanism. Instead of using voltage division ratios that become difficult to design under low power conditions, the invention uses current mirrors to generate temperature-dependent currents that can be directly compared, simplifying the design while maintaining extended detection range capability
Solution Approach 2:
The invention changes the detection parameter from voltage to current. By using current mirrors to generate temperature-dependent currents and comparing them with reference currents, the system achieves accurate temperature detection across a wide range while avoiding the design complexities associated with voltage dividers under low power voltage conditions
2Reliability
If voltage dividers are used for temperature detection, then temperature compensation can be achieved, but manufacturing becomes more difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces complex voltage divider circuits with current mirror circuits that are easier to manufacture. The current mirror structure uses matched transistors that can be fabricated with standard CMOS processes, eliminating the need for precise resistor matching that complicates manufacturing while maintaining temperature compensation functionality
Solution Approach 2:
The invention uses current mirrors to create copies of reference currents that are automatically scaled by temperature-dependent factors. This copying mechanism eliminates the need for complex voltage division networks, simplifying the manufacturing process while achieving reliable temperature compensation through the inherent properties of the mirrored current circuits
3Use of energy by moving object
If traditional temperature detectors are used, then power consumption can be maintained, but detection accuracy decreases under varying power conditions
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a dynamic detection system that adapts to varying power conditions. The current mirror circuits automatically adjust their operating points based on the available power supply voltage, maintaining accurate temperature detection across different power conditions without requiring fixed power consumption levels
Solution Approach 2:
The invention changes the detection approach from voltage-based to current-based measurement. Current mirrors generate temperature-dependent currents that are compared against reference currents, allowing the system to maintain detection accuracy under varying power conditions while adapting power consumption to match the operating environment
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 solution enhances the accuracy of temperature detection, particularly under varying power conditions, by adjusting the output current of the second current mirror to compensate for temperature changes, thereby improving the stability and performance of electronic devices.
Implementation Method 1
The current of the first current mirror is temperature-dependent
Implementation Method 2
The current of the second current mirror is temperature-independent
Implementation Method 3
The phase detector is connected to the output of the first comparator and the output of the second comparator
Data Source
AI summary
A temperature detector comprises a first current mirror, a second current mirror, a first pulse generator, a second pulse generator, a phase detector and a controller. The current of the first current mirror is in variation with temperature, but the current of the second current mirror is not. If the output pulse of the first pulse generator appears earlier than that of the second pulse generator, the controller enhances the output current of the second current mirror. If the output pulse of the first pulse generator appears later than that of the second pulse generator, the controller decreases the output current of the second current mirror.