Microwave-Coupled Analog Isolator for Floating Signal Measurement
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Solution Overview
Problem
Test and measurement systems face issues when dealing with floating signals, as direct connections to ground can result in erroneous data and exceed design constraints, leading to obfuscation of fine differential measurements.
Innovation Solution
An electromagnetically coupling mechanism using a microwave structure with an isolation barrier is employed to modulate floating analog signals to a microwave frequency band, preventing sub-microwave signals from crossing the barrier while allowing desired frequency signals to pass, thus isolating the floating signal from ground and enabling accurate measurement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a direct connection between the DUT and the oscilloscope is made, then the measurement system can operate with simple grounding, but the measurement precision deteriorates due to erroneous data and improper scaling when measuring floating signals
Solution Approach 1:
An isolation barrier is introduced as an intermediary component between the DUT and the oscilloscope. This barrier includes a transformer that magnetically couples the floating signal from the DUT to the ground-referenced oscilloscope, enabling accurate differential measurements while maintaining galvanic isolation. The transformer acts as a mediator that transfers the signal without direct electrical connection, resolving the contradiction between simple grounding and measurement precision.
2Measurement precision
If an isolation barrier is introduced to prevent direct connection, then the measurement precision improves by enabling accurate differential measurements, but the device complexity increases due to additional isolation components
Solution Approach 1:
A transformer is used as the isolation barrier component, which provides galvanic isolation while maintaining signal integrity. The transformer's magnetic coupling mechanism allows the floating signal to be transferred to the ground-referenced oscilloscope without direct electrical connection. This single component accomplishes both isolation and signal transfer, improving measurement precision while minimizing the increase in device complexity.
3Measurement precision
If a transformer is used for isolation, then the measurement precision improves by enabling accurate floating signal measurements, but the frequency range is limited to relatively low frequencies due to parasitic capacitances
Solution Approach 1:
The patent modifies the transformer design parameters to extend the frequency response range. Specifically, the transformer is designed with reduced parasitic capacitances through optimized winding structures and spacing. Additionally, the isolation barrier incorporates frequency compensation techniques that maintain accurate floating signal measurements across a broader frequency spectrum, addressing both measurement precision and frequency range requirements.
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
This solution effectively isolates floating signals from ground, preventing erroneous measurements and allowing for precise differential signal analysis without damaging the test equipment or posing safety risks.
Implementation Method 1
a microwave structure to transmit the microwave frequency analog signal across the isolation barrier via electromagnetic coupling
Data Source
AI summary
Disclosed is a signal isolating test instrument, such as an electronics test probe. The instrument includes an input to receive a floating analog signal. An upconverter is employed to modulate the floating analog signal to a microwave frequency analog signal. An isolation barrier in the instrument prevents coupling of the floating analog signal to an earth ground. The instrument employs a microwave structure to transmit the microwave frequency analog signal across the isolation barrier via electromagnetic coupling. A downconverter is then employed to demodulate the microwave frequency analog signal to obtain a ground referenced test signal corresponding to the floating analog signal.