Configurable Driver IC for Multi-Mode Wireless Power Transfer
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current Wireless Power Transfer (WPT) systems face challenges in efficiently configuring driver circuits to operate in multiple modes, particularly in achieving optimal performance across different Class E and Class D amplifier configurations, which affects the reliability and efficiency of power transfer.
Innovation Solution
A configurable driver integrated circuit with multiple input/output terminals and driver circuits, including transistors and gate drivers, that can operate in various modes by shifting logic signals between fixed and floating voltage domains, enabling flexible configuration for reactive loads and preventing shoot-through currents.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If driver circuits are configured for multiple modes in WPT systems, then adaptability and versatility are improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The driver circuit is designed with universal functionality to operate in multiple amplifier classes (Class E, Class D, and other push-pull configurations) through a single unified architecture. The circuit uses configurable switching elements and control logic that can be programmed via I2C interface to achieve different operating modes, eliminating the need for separate dedicated circuits for each amplifier class while maintaining optimal performance characteristics for each mode.
2Ease of operation
If configurable driver circuits are used, then ease of operation is improved, but manufacturing precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The driver circuit employs digitally controllable parameters through I2C interface that allow dynamic adjustment of operating characteristics without physical component changes. By using digital control registers and configurable switching timing, the circuit can adapt its behavior to different amplifier classes while maintaining consistent manufacturing tolerances. The precision requirements are managed through digital calibration and control rather than tight analog component matching.
Data Source
AI summary
A configurable driver integrated circuit is disclosed having a plurality of input/output terminals for interfacing exterior of the integrated circuit. The integrated circuit includes a plurality of driver circuits, with each driver circuit including a transistor having a source and a drain, and each of the source and drain thereof connected to a dedicated and respective one of the input/output terminals and further includes a gate driver for driving a gate of the transistor, with supply inputs associated with a floating voltage domain, and each driver circuit also includes a level shift circuit for shifting the level of a logic signal from a fixed voltage domain to the floating voltage domain. A switching circuitry generates switching signals in a fixed voltage domain for controlling the operation of each of the driver circuits in accordance with a predetermined configuration defined by external circuit.