Trimming Circuit for Voltage Generator Automatic Reference Adjustment

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Solution Overview

Problem

The existing charge pumping circuits require manual adjustment of reference voltages to achieve a predetermined average DC voltage, which is time-consuming and labor-intensive.

Innovation Solution

A trimming circuit and method that automatically adjusts the reference voltage by generating a trimming code, which is used to proportionally change the reference voltage until the average voltage of the output signal reaches a target voltage, utilizing a controller, reference voltage supply circuit, and average voltage detector.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If manual adjustment of reference voltage is used, then the average DC voltage can be set to a predetermined value, but the process is time-consuming and labor-intensive

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveaverage DC voltage setting accuracyVSAvoidtrimming time
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The trimming circuit automatically adjusts the reference voltage by generating a trimming code that controls the reference voltage supply circuit. The average voltage detector continuously monitors the output and feeds back to the controller, enabling the system to self-adjust without manual intervention until the target voltage is achieved.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The average voltage detector detects the average voltage of the output signal and provides feedback to the controller. Based on this feedback, the controller adjusts the trimming code to modify the reference voltage, creating a closed-loop control system that automatically converges to the target voltage.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

2Measurement precision

If manual adjustment of reference voltage is used, then the predetermined average DC voltage can be achieved, but the process is labor-intensive

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveaverage DC voltage setting accuracyVSAvoidoperation simplicity
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The trimming circuit automatically adjusts the reference voltage by generating a trimming code that controls the reference voltage supply circuit. The average voltage detector continuously monitors the output and feeds back to the controller, enabling the system to self-adjust without manual intervention until the target voltage is achieved.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The patent replaces the manual mechanical adjustment process with an automated electronic control system. The controller generates digital trimming codes that are converted to analog reference voltage adjustments, substituting manual operational steps with automated electronic signaling and control.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

3Extent of automation

If automatic trimming is implemented, then manual intervention is reduced, but the device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvetrimming automationVSAvoidcircuit complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Extent of automationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The trimming circuit is divided into distinct functional modules: a controller that generates trimming codes, a reference voltage supply circuit that converts trimming codes to reference voltage adjustments, and an average voltage detector that monitors and provides feedback. This segmentation allows each module to perform its specific function independently, making the overall complex system manageable and modular.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The controller serves multiple functions: it generates the trimming code, controls the reference voltage supply circuit, and processes feedback from the average voltage detector. The reference voltage supply circuit also serves dual purposes by both supplying reference voltage and adjusting it based on trimming codes, reducing the need for separate dedicated components.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Data Source

PatentUS9270259B2Trimming circuit and method applied to voltage generator
Publication Date: 2016.02.23 EMEMORY TECH INC
  • US9270259B2 patent drawing
  • US9270259B2 patent drawing
  • US9270259B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A trimming method for a voltage generator is provided. The voltage generator generates an output voltage according to a reference voltage. The trimming method includes the following steps. Firstly, in a step (a), an initial value of a trimming code is provided. Then, in a step (b), the reference voltage is generated to the voltage generator according to the trimming code, so that the output voltage is correspondingly generated by the voltage generator. Then, in a step (c), an average voltage of the output voltage is compared with a target voltage. If the average voltage does not reach the target voltage, the trimming code is gradually changed, and the step (b) is repeatedly done. If the average voltage reaches the target voltage, the trimming code is locked.