Voltage Reference Circuit In-Situ Calibration
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional band-gap voltage reference circuits require costly calibration during manufacturing and testing to account for temperature variations and manufacturing dispersion, which does not address performance losses over the circuit's life.
Innovation Solution
A voltage reference generation circuit integrated in a semiconductor chip with a heater and control device that adjusts the operating temperature and calibration parameters to evaluate and optimize the output voltage, allowing for in-situ calibration to minimize temperature-dependent variations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If calibration is performed during manufacturing and testing to account for temperature variations and manufacturing dispersion, then voltage reference precision is improved, but manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by performing calibration during the manufacturing process itself rather than after production. The calibration circuit adjusts temperature compensation parameters while the device is being manufactured, so that when the device is shipped, it is already calibrated and ready for use. This eliminates the need for separate post-manufacturing calibration steps, reducing both time and cost while maintaining high precision.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements self-service through an automated calibration system that performs temperature compensation calibration without requiring external equipment or manual intervention. The calibration circuit uses internal resources to automatically adjust parameters, making the calibration process self-contained and eliminating the need for expensive external calibration equipment and manual operations.
2Measurement precision
If calibration is performed during manufacturing, then temperature-dependent variations are compensated, but performance losses occurring during circuit life are not addressed
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by making the calibration parameter adjustable during the device's operational lifetime. The calibration parameter stored in memory can be modified through subsequent calibration operations, allowing the device to adapt to aging effects and performance drift. This transforms a static calibration approach into a dynamic one that can evolve with the device's lifecycle.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements feedback by enabling repeated calibration operations throughout the device's life. The system can perform additional calibration cycles based on observed performance degradation, creating a feedback loop where performance monitoring triggers recalibration. This ensures the device maintains optimal performance despite aging, manufacturing variations, or environmental changes over time.
3Measurement precision
If conventional calibration methods are used, then initial temperature variations are compensated, but in-situ calibration capability is lacking
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies universality by designing a calibration system that serves multiple functions and can operate in multiple contexts. The same calibration circuit and parameter storage mechanism work both during manufacturing and during the device's operational lifetime. This multi-functional design allows the system to perform initial calibration, periodic recalibration, and adaptive calibration in different situations without requiring separate systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies preliminary action by pre-configuring the calibration circuit and memory structures during manufacturing, so that the device is born with the capability for future recalibration. The calibration parameter is stored in writable memory from the outset, and the calibration circuit is built-in and ready to operate, enabling in-situ calibration without requiring additional components or complex external equipment later.
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 solution enables efficient and cost-effective calibration that compensates for temperature-dependent performance variations throughout the circuit's life, reducing manufacturing costs and improving reliability by ensuring consistent voltage generation across different temperatures.
Implementation Method 1
a heater operable to heat said voltage generator
Data Source
AI summary
A voltage generation circuit that includes: a voltage generator integrated in a semiconductor chip and structured to generate an output voltage in accordance with a calibration parameter; a heater operable to heat the voltage generator; a control device configured to receive the output voltage, activate the heater and provide the calibration parameter to the voltage generator.