DC to DC Transmission System with Synchronized Switching
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing DC to DC transmission systems pose a risk of direct current exposure to body tissue due to insulation breaches, necessitating a method to safely transfer DC energy across conductors while minimizing tissue exposure.
Innovation Solution
A DC to DC transmission system utilizing multiple conductors with synchronized switch sets to convert direct current into rapidly time-varying square wave signals, reducing the risk of tissue exposure by ensuring that only alternating polarity connections are maintained between the source and sink, employing a ring counter and complementary switches to manage conductor connections.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of energy
If direct current is transmitted through conductors in implantable medical devices, then energy transfer is simple and efficient, but tissue exposure to direct current occurs when insulation breaches happen
Solution Approach 1:
The patent converts continuous direct current into periodic square wave signals by using switch sets that alternately connect conductors to positive and negative terminals. This periodic switching creates time-varying signals that reduce tissue exposure risk while maintaining energy transfer efficiency through controlled alternation between polarity states.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces dynamic switching mechanisms that change the electrical characteristics of the transmission system over time. By using controllable switches to dynamically alter conductor connections between different terminals, the system transforms static direct current into dynamic square wave signals, enabling safe operation in implantable devices.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If multiple conductors with synchronized switch sets are used to convert DC to square wave signals, then tissue exposure risk is reduced, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the switching function into multiple independent switch sets, each controlling specific conductors. This segmentation allows each switch set to operate independently with simplified control logic, while the overall system achieves the desired square wave transformation through coordinated operation of these modular switching units.
Solution Approach 2:
The switch sets serve multiple functions: they convert direct current to square wave signals, synchronize conductor connections, and provide isolated control for each conductor. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate dedicated components, thereby managing system complexity while achieving multiple safety and operational objectives.
3Object-affected harmful factors
If rapid time-varying signals are generated on conductors, then safety is improved by reducing tissue exposure, but energy loss increases due to frequent switching
Solution Approach 1:
The patent maintains continuous energy transfer by ensuring that while individual conductors switch states, the overall system maintains uninterrupted power delivery. The synchronized switching of multiple conductors ensures that energy flow continues through alternative paths during transitions, minimizing gaps in useful action and reducing associated energy losses.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs brief transition periods where conductors are momentarily disconnected or reconfigured during switching. These rapid transitions 'skip' through the switching event quickly, minimizing the duration of energy loss during state changes while still achieving the safety benefit of time-varying signals.
Data Source
AI summary
A DC to DC transmission system includes at least three conductors between a source and a sink, a first switch which alternately connects each conductor to the source, a second switch which alternately connects each conductor to the sink. The switches are synchronized such that one conductor is alternately coupled between the same polarity side of the source and sink and another conductor is alternately coupled between the other polarity side of the source and sink. The alternating connection between the conductors and source and sink may be undertaken at a wide range of frequencies.