Variable-Gain ADC Circuit for Low-Voltage Signal Resolution
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Solution Overview
Problem
Analog-to-digital converters (ADCs) face challenges in converting low voltage analog input signals with poor resolution and latency, especially when the input voltage is close to the quantum level, leading to imprecise digital output values.
Innovation Solution
A programmable gain amplifier is used to boost the voltage level of low analog input signals, with the gain value determined by a classification circuit that operates on the input signal, allowing for instantaneous adjustment and real-time conversion without delay.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a fixed gain amplifier is used, then the circuit is simple, but the resolution is poor for low voltage input signals
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by transitioning from a fixed gain amplifier to a variable gain amplifier whose gain can be dynamically adjusted based on the input signal amplitude. The control circuit monitors the analog input signal and programmatically sets the gain value to optimize resolution for different voltage levels, thereby improving measurement precision without excessive complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the gain parameter of the amplifier from a fixed value to a variable value that can be programmatically adjusted. The control circuit determines the appropriate gain based on the input signal characteristics and configures the variable gain amplifier accordingly, allowing the system to adapt to different signal conditions and improve resolution for low voltage inputs
2Measurement precision
If an interactive process is used to determine optimal gain values, then the conversion precision is improved, but the latency increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by pre-establishing the variable gain amplifier configuration based on the input signal characteristics before the actual conversion process. The control circuit quickly determines the appropriate gain value and configures the amplifier in advance, eliminating the need for iterative interactive processes and reducing latency while maintaining conversion precision
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical/interactive process of determining gain values with an automated electronic control system. The control circuit electronically monitors the input signal and programmatically adjusts the gain without requiring manual intervention or iterative testing, thereby substituting a fast electronic control mechanism for a slower interactive process
3Reliability
If the analog input voltage is low (close to quantum), then the ADC can operate within its range, but the resolution and precision deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses a variable gain amplifier that dynamically adjusts its gain based on the input signal amplitude. When the analog input voltage is low (close to the quantum level), the amplifier increases the gain to boost the signal amplitude, ensuring that the ADC operates within its optimal range while maintaining adequate resolution and precision
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the gain parameter of the amplifier in response to the input signal voltage level. For low voltage inputs, the control circuit increases the gain value to amplify the signal before it reaches the ADC, thereby improving the effective resolution without compromising operational reliability across different voltage ranges
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 resolution and precision of ADCs by automatically adjusting the gain based on the input signal, enabling immediate and accurate digital conversion, even for low voltage values, thereby reducing latency and improving conversion efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
a variable gain adjuster configured to adjust a level of an analog input signal with a variable gain
Data Source
AI summary
An analog-to-digital converter conversion device includes a variable gain adjuster configured to adjust a level of an analog input signal with a variable gain. The analog-to-digital converter conversion device includes an analog-to-digital converter configured to convert the adjusted analog input signal to a digital output signal. The analog-to-digital converter conversion device includes a classification circuit configured to output a corresponding classification information of the analog input signal based on the level of the analog input signal. The variable gain adjuster is configured to set a gain value of the variable gain corresponding to the classification information.