STMicroelectronics has been granted a patent for an input stage circuit in a sigma-delta analog-to-digital converter. The circuit includes an integrator, single-bit quantization, and feedback digital-to-analog converter circuits. It utilizes non-overlapping clock signals to control switches and process analog current input signals efficiently. GlobalData’s report on STMicroelectronics gives a 360-degree view of the company including its patenting strategy. Buy the report here.
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According to GlobalData’s company profile on STMicroelectronics, Quantum dot devices was a key innovation area identified from patents. STMicroelectronics's grant share as of May 2024 was 59%. Grant share is based on the ratio of number of grants to total number of patents.
Input stage circuit for sigma-delta analog-to-digital converter
A recently granted patent (Publication Number: US12015427B2) discloses a circuit featuring a sigma-delta analog-to-digital converter circuit. The circuit comprises an integrator circuit, a single-bit quantization circuit, a feedback digital-to-analog converter circuit, and an input stage circuit. The input stage circuit includes various switches and an input capacitor to process an analog current signal input, particularly a photocurrent generated by a photodiode. The feedback digital-to-analog converter circuit generates an analog feedback signal from the bit signal, enhancing the overall functionality of the circuit. Additionally, the circuit can operate as an ambient light detector or an energy harvesting system, showcasing its versatility and potential applications in various fields.
Furthermore, the patent details the configuration of the circuit, including the operation of switches in response to clock signals and logical inversions, the integration of a decimator circuit to process the bit signal, and the use of a flip-flop circuit to enhance the feedback loop. The feedback digital-to-analog converter circuit is designed to apply different voltages based on the logic state of the bit signal, adding a dynamic element to the analog feedback signal generation process. The circuit's integrator circuit is equipped with specific components and switches to ensure efficient integration of the difference signal. Overall, the patent highlights a sophisticated circuit design that combines analog and digital elements to achieve precise signal processing and conversion, with potential applications in light detection and energy harvesting systems.
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GlobalData Patent Analytics tracks bibliographic data, legal events data, point in time patent ownerships, and backward and forward citations from global patenting offices. Textual analysis and official patent classifications are used to group patents into key thematic areas and link them to specific companies across the world’s largest industries.
