TI chip combines body analysis in weighing scales

Description

The AFE4300 is a low-cost analog front-end incorporating two separate signal chains: one chain for weight-scale (WS) measurement and the other for body composition measurement (BCM) analysis. A 16-bit, 860-SPS analog-to-digital converter (ADC) is multiplexed between both chains. The weight measurement chain includes an instrumentation amplifier (INA) with the gain set by an external resistor, followed by a 6-bit digital-to-analog converter (DAC) for offset correction, and a circuit to drive the external bridge/load cell with a fixed 1.7 V for ratiometric measurements.

The AFE4300 can also measure body composition by applying a sinusoidal current into the body. The sinusoidal current is generated with an internal pattern generator and a 6-bit, 1-MSPS DAC. A voltage-to-current converter applies this sinusoidal current into the body, between two terminals. The voltage created across these two terminals as a result of the impedance of the body is measured back with a differential amplifier, rectified, and its amplitude is extracted and measured by the 16-bit ADC.

The AFE4300 operates from 2 V to 3.6 V, is specified from 0°C to +70°C, and is available in a TQFP-80 package.

Features

  • Weight-Scale Front-End:
    • Supports up to Four Load Cell Inputs
    • On-Chip Load Cell 1.7-V Excitation Voltage
      for Ratiometric Measurement
    • 68-nVrms Input-Referred Noise (0.1 Hz to 2 Hz)
    • Best-Fit Linearity: 0.01% of Full-Scale
    • Weight-Scale Measurement : 540 µA
  • Body Composition Front-End:
    • Supports Up To Three Tetra-Polar Complex Impedance
      Measurements
    • 6-Bit, 1-MSPS Sine-Wave Generation Digital-to-Analog
      Converter (DAC)
    • 375-µArms, ±20% Excitation Source
    • Dynamic Range : 0 Ω to 2.8 kΩ
    • 0.1-Ω Measurement RMS Noise in 2-Hz BW
    • Body Composition measurement : 970 µA
  • Analog-to_Digital Converter (ADC):
    • 16 Bits, 860 SPS
    • Supply current: 110 µA

Texas Instruments has introduced an analogue front end IC for use in weighing scales that incorporate also body composition meters.

The AFE4300 incorporates two separate signal chains, one targeting weight measurement and the other targeting body composition analysis, with a 16-bit, 860sample/s analogue-to-digital converter (ADC) multiplexed between them.

The device’s three BCM channels are designed to enable segmental body impedance analysis (BIA) for measurement across the body including hand to hand, foot to foot, or even hand to foot, which increases overall measurement accuracy.

The device also includes an option to accurately measure Extra Cellular Water (ECW) and Intra Cellular Water (ICW) using bio-impedance spectroscopy (BIS).

The AFE4300 consumes less than 1mA, operating from a 2V to 3.6V power supply.

It is available in a 12mm x 12mm TQFP-80 package.

For more read: TI chip combines body analysis in weighing scales


About The Author

Ibrar Ayyub

I am an experienced technical writer holding a Master's degree in computer science from BZU Multan, Pakistan University. With a background spanning various industries, particularly in home automation and engineering, I have honed my skills in crafting clear and concise content. Proficient in leveraging infographics and diagrams, I strive to simplify complex concepts for readers. My strength lies in thorough research and presenting information in a structured and logical format.

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