Universal Input Selector for Signal Format Switching
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing input selectors are limited in their ability to receive and switch between various signal formats, such as single-ended, differential, and ground isolation signals, without requiring replacement of components, thus restricting design flexibility and increasing manufacturing complexity.
Innovation Solution
An input selector design that includes multiple resistors, selectors, and an output circuit capable of switching between different signal formats, allowing for the reception of single-ended, differential, and ground isolation signals through a flexible configuration of input ports and selectors, with optional additional components to reduce waveform distortion and noise.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a conventional input selector is designed to receive specific signal formats (differential, single-ended, ground isolation), then the reception circuits are fixed for those formats, but the device cannot receive other signal formats and requires component replacement to modify functionality
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a universal input selector that can receive differential signals, single-ended signals, and ground isolation signals using the same reception circuit. The output circuit includes multiple output terminals that can be selectively connected to different input ports through switching elements, allowing the device to handle multiple signal formats without requiring separate reception circuits for each format.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces switching elements that dynamically connect different input ports to output terminals based on the selected signal format. This dynamic switching capability allows the reception circuit to adapt its functionality from fixed to flexible, enabling the same hardware to handle various signal formats by changing the connection configuration rather than replacing components.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the designer modifies the combination of input formats in an existing input selector, then the desired new functionality is achieved, but the designer must replace the unnecessary input selector with a suitable one
Solution Approach 1:
The patent designs an input selector with universal reception circuits that can process multiple signal formats (differential, single-ended, ground isolation) and a switching network that enables flexible configuration of input-output connections. This universal design allows designers to modify the input format combination by reconfiguring the switching elements rather than replacing the entire input selector component.
3Reliability
If multiple reception circuits are provided for different signal formats, then each signal format can be received, but the device complexity increases and design freedom is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a universal reception circuit design that can handle differential signals, single-ended signals, and ground isolation signals within the same circuit architecture. The output circuit includes switching elements that selectively connect the reception circuit output to different output terminals based on the signal format, eliminating the need for separate dedicated reception circuits for each signal type.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces dynamic switching elements that reconfigure the connection between the reception circuit and output terminals based on the selected signal format. This dynamic reconfiguration allows a single reception circuit to serve multiple signal format requirements, reducing the total number of reception circuits needed while maintaining comprehensive signal reception capability.
Data Source
AI summary
A first selector receives a second input signal and a second reference voltage, and selects either one. A first buffer receives the output signal of the first selector, and outputs the signal thus received to a terminal of the first resistor, and to a terminal of the third resistor. A second selector receives a first input signal and a third input signal, and selects either one. A fourth selector receives, as input signals, the output signal of an operational amplifier, a signal that corresponds to the output signal of the second selector, and a signal that corresponds to the second input signal, and selects one signal selected from among the signals thus received.