US 5,332,962 A · Peak voltage detector with ferroelectric element

Abstract

A peak voltage detector to measure the peak output voltage of light sensors, heat sensors and the like without the need for a reference voltage. In a ferroelectric element, the ferroelectric body is positioned between PT electrodes. The ferroelectric body has a thickness that progressively varies from one end to the other. A D.C. voltage dependent upon the direct current power supply is applied to generate a maximum spontaneous polarization Pr. The output voltage from light sensors, heat sensors and the like is of a reverse polarity with respect to that of the power supply. The output voltage is applied to the ferroelectric element. Depending on this external voltage, reverse polarization will be generated in either one part, certain parts, or all of the ferroelectric element. By measuring this reverse polarization with the polarization measuring circuit, the peak value of the external voltage is measured.

Claims6

Dependent claims

A peak voltage detector having a ferroelectric body, the detector comprising:

(a) a ferroelectric element having a thickness, the thickness becoming progressively greater from a first end of the element to a second end of the element;
(b) a reset circuit generating a maximum spontaneous polarization in said ferroelectric element by applying an electric field across said ferroelectric element;
and
(c) a polarization detection circuit detecting a reverse polarization generated in said ferroelectric element, the reverse polarization being caused by an externally-input sensing voltage.

1 more element

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.

Peak voltage detector with ferroelectric element

Life of this patent

Peak voltage detector with ferroelectric element

Life of this patent

Abstract

Claims6