17933743. DUAL-MODE CONTROL CIRCUIT FOR MICROELECTROMECHANICAL SYSTEM GYROSCOPES simplified abstract (STMICROELECTRONICS S.R.L.)

DUAL-MODE CONTROL CIRCUIT FOR MICROELECTROMECHANICAL SYSTEM GYROSCOPES

Organization Name

STMICROELECTRONICS S.R.L.

Inventor(s)

Carlo Valzasina of Gessate (IT)

Giacomo Langfelder of Milano (IT)

Marco Bestetti of Gallarate (IT)

Andrea Giovanni Bonfanti of Milano (IT)

DUAL-MODE CONTROL CIRCUIT FOR MICROELECTROMECHANICAL SYSTEM GYROSCOPES - A simplified explanation of the abstract

This abstract first appeared for US patent application 17933743 titled 'DUAL-MODE CONTROL CIRCUIT FOR MICROELECTROMECHANICAL SYSTEM GYROSCOPES

Simplified Explanation

The present disclosure is directed to a dual-mode control circuit for a microelectromechanical system (MEMS) gyroscope. A control circuit is coupled to a Lissajous frequency modulated (LFM) gyroscope to control the amplitude of oscillation of a mass along two directions. The amplitude of oscillation is controlled by an automatic gain control (AGC) loop which allows the same amplitude of oscillation in both directions. An AGC is implemented with a combination of proportional control (P-type) and integral control (I-type) paths that maintain the correct Lissajous pattern of the oscillation of the mass. The AGC may include a dual-mode stage which is able to switch between a P-type control path and an I-type control path based on the operation of the LFM gyroscope. A fast start-up phase may be controlled by the P-type control path while the I-type path is pre-charged to be ready to use in a steady state condition.

• Dual-mode control circuit for MEMS gyroscope
• Utilizes Lissajous frequency modulated (LFM) gyroscope
• Controls amplitude of oscillation of mass along two directions
• Automatic gain control (AGC) loop for consistent amplitude in both directions
• AGC includes proportional control (P-type) and integral control (I-type) paths
• Dual-mode stage switches between P-type and I-type control paths
• Fast start-up phase controlled by P-type path

Potential Applications

This technology can be applied in:

• Inertial measurement units
• Navigation systems
• Robotics
• Virtual reality systems

Problems Solved

• Maintains consistent amplitude of oscillation in both directions
• Ensures correct Lissajous pattern of mass oscillation
• Allows for fast start-up phase control

Benefits

• Improved accuracy in MEMS gyroscope measurements
• Enhanced stability in control of oscillation
• Efficient and reliable dual-mode control system

Potential Commercial Applications

Optimized Dual-Mode Control Circuit for MEMS Gyroscope: Advancements in Precision Control Technology

Possible Prior Art

One possible prior art could be the use of single-mode control circuits in MEMS gyroscopes without the ability to switch between different control paths.

How does the dual-mode stage determine when to switch between P-type and I-type control paths?

The dual-mode stage may be designed to switch based on specific criteria such as the gyroscope's operational state or the amplitude of oscillation.

What are the potential challenges in implementing the dual-mode control circuit in MEMS gyroscopes?

Some potential challenges could include designing a seamless transition between control paths, optimizing the control algorithm for different modes, and ensuring compatibility with existing MEMS gyroscope systems.

Original Abstract Submitted

The present disclosure is directed to a dual-mode control circuit for a microelectromechanical system (MEMS) gyroscope. A control circuit is coupled to a Lissajous frequency modulated (LFM) gyroscope to control amplitude of oscillation of a mass along two directions. The amplitude of oscillation is controlled by an automatic gain control (AGC) loop which allows the same amplitude of oscillation in both directions. An AGC is implemented with a combination of proportional control (P-type) and integral control (I-type) paths that maintain the correct Lissajous pattern of the oscillation of the mass. The AGC may include a dual-mode stage which is able to switch between a P-type control path and an I-type control path based on the operation of the LFM gyroscope. A fast start-up phase may be controlled by the P-type control path while the I-type path is pre-charged to be ready to use in a steady state condition.