Self-Calibrating Timing Generator for Pulse Width Correction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Timing signals generated by timing generators can be delayed or deformed due to external interference, leading to synchronization issues in high-speed digital circuits, which can cause operational errors even with very short delays or deformations.
Innovation Solution
A timing generator design that includes a current source, switches, a capacitor, and a timing difference extractor to calibrate the pulse width of the timing signal, using a feedback mechanism to adjust for delays or deformations caused by external interference, ensuring precise operation of high-speed circuits.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If timing signals are transmitted through external circuits, then the timing generator can provide reference signals to control various digital circuits, but the timing signal may be delayed or deformed due to external interference, resulting in different pulse widths
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a feedback mechanism where the deformed timing signal is fed back to the timing generator through a feedback circuit. The timing generator compares the original timing signal with the deformed feedback signal and automatically adjusts its output to compensate for the deformation, thereby maintaining precise pulse width control despite external circuit interference
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a calibration circuit as an intermediary component between the timing generator and external circuits. This calibration circuit measures the deformation of the timing signal and generates calibration information that is used to adjust the timing generator's output, serving as a mediator that eliminates the direct harmful impact of external circuit interference
2Measurement precision
If the timing signal pulse width is adjusted to compensate for external interference, then synchronization precision can be maintained, but the device complexity increases due to additional calibration components
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the calibration function with the existing timing generator structure by integrating the calibration circuit into the feedback path of the timing generator. The calibration circuit reuses existing timing signal paths and combines multiple functions (timing generation, deformation detection, and compensation) into a unified system, reducing overall complexity despite adding calibration capabilities
Solution Approach 2:
The timing generator performs self-calibration by automatically comparing its own output signal with the deformed feedback signal and adjusting its parameters without external intervention. This self-service mechanism eliminates the need for manual calibration procedures and external calibration equipment, reducing system complexity while maintaining high precision
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 calibration mechanism effectively adjusts the pulse width of the timing signal to match its original preset value, maintaining synchronization and precision in high-speed circuit operations.
Implementation Method 1
a capacitor (C) coupled between a charging terminal (VT) and a ground terminal (GND)
Implementation Method 2
a capacitor (C) coupled between a charging terminal (VT) and a ground terminal (GND)
Data Source
AI summary
A timing generator includes a first current source, a first switch, a second current source, a second switch, a third switch, a capacitor, a signal synthesizer, and a timing difference extractor. The first current source is for generating a first current according to the input voltage. The second current source is for generating a second current according to the input voltage. The first switch includes a control terminal for receiving a charging signal. The second switch includes a control terminal for receiving a timing difference signal. The third switch includes a control terminal for receiving a reset signal. The capacitor is coupled between a charging terminal and a ground terminal. The signal synthesizer is for generating a timing signal according to a charging voltage and a reference voltage. The timing difference extractor is for generating a timing difference signal according to the timing signal and a deformed timing signal.