ADC Power Converter Frequency Offset for Noise and Aliasing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current current-sensing devices for high currents face challenges in noise and aliasing issues due to the lack of integrated, isolated power supplies and interference between internal clocks and externally-sourced power signals.
Innovation Solution
A system that includes a frequency generator producing a second clock signal offset from a first clock signal, a power converter generating a power signal corresponding to the second frequency, and an analog-to-digital converter (ADC) powered by this signal, with electrical isolation between components to mitigate noise and aliasing, using a phase-locked loop (PLL) and transformers for isolation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Use of energy by moving object
If current-sensing devices use externally-sourced power signals, then power supply is available, but noise and aliasing problems occur between internal clocks and power signals
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the frequency parameter of the power signal to be offset from the internal clock frequency and its harmonics. The power converter generates a power signal at a frequency that avoids overlap with the ADC sampling frequency and its harmonics, thereby eliminating noise and aliasing while maintaining power supply availability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a power converter as an intermediary component between the external power source and the ADC. This intermediary transforms the external power signal into a conditioned power signal with offset frequency, mediating the interaction between power supply and ADC to prevent harmful interference.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If electrical isolation is implemented between components, then noise and interference are reduced, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the power conversion function and electrical isolation function into a single integrated power converter module. This merging approach achieves both noise reduction through frequency offset and electrical isolation, while reducing overall device complexity compared to separate isolation components.
Solution Approach 2:
The power converter is designed to perform multiple functions simultaneously: frequency transformation to offset power signal frequency, electrical isolation between primary and secondary sides, and power supply to the ADC. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate components and simplifies the overall device architecture.
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 effectively reduces noise and aliasing problems by offsetting frequencies and providing integrated electrical isolation, enabling accurate current measurement without exposing systems to harmful interference.
Implementation Method 1
The power converter comprises a transformer to achieve electrical isolation between at least two of the dies among which the power converter is distributed
Implementation Method 2
a phase-locked loop (PLL) configured to generate a second clock signal having a second frequency based on a first clock signal having a first frequency. The second frequency is offset from the first frequency and each of a plurality of harmonic frequencies of the second frequency is offset from at least one harmonic frequency of the first frequency
Implementation Method 3
an analog-to-digital converter (ADC) configured to receive the first clock signal from the clock receiver and to sample and convert electrical measurements at the first frequency
Data Source
AI summary
In at least some embodiments, a system comprises a frequency generator configured to generate a second clock signal having a second frequency using a first clock signal having a first frequency. The second frequency is offset from the first frequency and each of a plurality of harmonic frequencies of the second frequency is offset from a harmonic frequency of the first frequency. The system also includes a power converter configured to produce a power signal that at least partially corresponds to the second frequency. The system further comprises an analog-to-digital converter (ADC) configured to sample and convert analog voltages at the first frequency. The ADC is powered by the power signal.