Variable-Gain Oscillator Temperature Control for Frequency Stability

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing quartz crystal oscillators face challenges in maintaining temperature stability of the resonator element due to fixed temperature control gains that are not suitable for varying application or operation environments, leading to inappropriate temperature control and oscillation frequency fluctuations.

Innovation Solution

An oscillator design incorporating a resonator element, a first temperature sensor, a temperature control element, and a temperature control circuit that generates control signals based on variable gains, allowing for precise temperature control of the resonator element by multiplying the difference between a set temperature and measured temperature.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If a fixed gain is used for temperature control, then the control circuit is simple, but the temperature control is not appropriate for varying application or operation environments

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveadaptability to varying operation environmentsVSAvoidcomplexity of temperature control circuit
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements a variable gain mechanism where the gain for temperature control is dynamically adjusted based on the detected temperature. The temperature control circuit includes a gain control unit that modifies the gain according to temperature ranges, allowing the system to adapt to varying operation environments rather than using a fixed gain value throughout all conditions.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The patent changes the gain parameter of the temperature control circuit based on temperature conditions. By detecting the current temperature and selecting different gain values corresponding to different temperature ranges, the system optimizes its control performance for varying environments without requiring complete circuit redesign.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

2Measurement precision

If a fixed gain is used for temperature control, then the control circuit is simple, but the oscillation frequency accuracy deteriorates in varying environments

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveoscillation frequency accuracyVSAvoidcomplexity of temperature control circuit
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements a variable gain mechanism where the gain for temperature control is dynamically adjusted based on the detected temperature. The temperature control circuit includes a gain control unit that modifies the gain according to temperature ranges, allowing the system to adapt to varying operation environments rather than using a fixed gain value throughout all conditions.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The patent employs a feedback mechanism where the temperature control circuit continuously detects the resonator element temperature and adjusts the gain accordingly. This closed-loop feedback ensures that the oscillation frequency accuracy is maintained by compensating for temperature variations through appropriate gain adjustment.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

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 oscillator achieves improved temperature stability and frequency accuracy by dynamically adjusting gains to match varying environmental conditions, ensuring consistent oscillation frequency performance.

Implementation Method 1

a first temperature sensor that measures a temperature of the resonator element

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectTemperature sensing: Thermistor

Implementation Method 2

a temperature control element that controls the temperature of the resonator element

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectThermal conduction: Conduction (thermal)

Data Source

PatentUS12476590B2Oscillator
Publication Date: 2025.11.18 SEIKO EPSON CORP
  • US12476590B2 patent drawing
  • US12476590B2 patent drawing
  • US12476590B2 patent drawing

AI summary

An oscillator includes a resonator element, a first temperature sensor that measures a temperature of the resonator element, a temperature control element that controls the temperature of the resonator element, and a temperature control circuit that generates a control signal for controlling an operation of the temperature control element, in which the temperature control circuit generates the control signal based on a value obtained by multiplying a difference between a set temperature and a first measured temperature measured by the first temperature sensor by a gain, and the gain is variable.