Variable Current Supply for Low-Power Discrete-Time Amplifiers
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Solution Overview
Problem
Discrete-time electronic circuits, such as pipeline ADCs, consume fixed high current throughout their operating phases, leading to significant power wastage as performance requirements drop off between switching operations.
Innovation Solution
Implementing a variable current supply system that provides high current during switching operations and low current during non-switching periods, utilizing a combination of a low current source and switchable additive current sources to optimize power usage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If fixed high current is supplied to the amplifier throughout all operating phases, then sufficient current is available during switching operations, but power consumption increases significantly during non-switching periods
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by transitioning from a fixed current supply to a variable current supply that adapts to the operational state of the circuit. The current supply dynamically switches between high current during switching operations and low current during non-switching periods, resolving the contradiction between ensuring sufficient current availability and minimizing power consumption.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the current parameter from a constant value to a variable value based on operational phase. By monitoring switching signals and adjusting the current magnitude accordingly, the system maintains reliability during critical switching operations while reducing power consumption during stable non-switching periods.
2Productivity
If high current is supplied continuously to ensure performance during switching operations, then switching performance is maintained, but power wastage occurs during non-switching periods
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements periodic action by supplying high current only during the periodic switching operations and low current during the intervening non-switching periods. This rhythmic adjustment of current supply ensures that productivity during switching is maintained while energy loss during non-switching periods is minimized.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies partial action by providing high current only when necessary during switching operations, rather than continuously. During non-switching periods, the current is reduced to a minimal level sufficient for basic operation, thereby reducing energy loss without compromising switching performance.
3Use of energy by moving object
If variable current supply is implemented to reduce power consumption, then power savings are achieved during non-switching periods, but circuit complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses switching signals as an intermediary to control the variable current supply. These signals, already present in the circuit for operational control, serve as a mediator to trigger current magnitude changes without requiring separate complex control circuitry, thus achieving power savings with minimal increase in overall circuit complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent makes the existing switching signals serve a dual function: controlling the operational state of the circuit and regulating the current supply magnitude. This multi-functionality approach reduces the need for additional dedicated control circuits, thereby limiting the increase in device complexity while achieving variable current supply.
Data Source
AI summary
A low power discrete-time electronic circuit includes an amplifier, and a variable current supply. The variable current supply is electrically connected to the amplifier, and is utilized for supplying high current to the amplifier during a switching operation and supplying low current to the amplifier during a non-switching period.