Galvanic Isolation Transformer for Multi-Channel Signal Transmission
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Solution Overview
Problem
Photocouplers used in communication devices for signal transmission face issues with crosstalk, complex assembly, and high manufacturing costs due to the need for multiple LEDs and photodiodes, while galvanic isolation elements using electric or magnetic fields offer alternatives but with different challenges.
Innovation Solution
A communication device employing a galvanic isolation transformer for signal transmission, utilizing a single RF generator to modulate and demodulate signals efficiently, reducing power consumption and chip area, and minimizing electromagnetic interference.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple LEDs and PDs are provided on a single photocoupler to transmit multiple signals, then the signal transmission capability is improved, but crosstalk between signals occurs and manufacturing costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the signal transmission function into separate channels, with each channel having its own LED and PD pair. This segmentation prevents crosstalk between multiple signals by isolating each signal path physically and electrically, while still enabling multi-signal transmission through coordinated operation of multiple independent pairs.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent makes a single photocoupler unit capable of handling multiple signal channels by integrating multiple LED-PD pairs within one device structure. This multi-functional design allows one photocoupler to transmit multiple signals simultaneously, improving versatility without requiring separate discrete components for each channel.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple LEDs and PDs are provided on a single photocoupler to transmit multiple signals, then the signal transmission capability is improved, but assembly complexity increases and reliability decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple LED-PD pairs into a single integrated photocoupler unit, merging what would otherwise be separate discrete components. This integration reduces assembly complexity by treating multiple signal channels as one unified device, simplifying the mounting and connection process while maintaining the capability to transmit multiple signals.
Solution Approach 2:
By designing a universal photocoupler structure that can accommodate multiple LED-PD pairs in a standardized configuration, the patent enables multi-signal transmission without proportionally increasing assembly complexity. The unified design allows for consistent assembly procedures across different channel configurations.
3Adaptability or versatility
If a photocoupler with multiple LEDs and PDs is used to transmit multiple signals, then the signal transmission capability is improved, but manufacturing costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple LED-PD pairs into a single manufactured unit, allowing for economies of scale in production. By producing integrated multi-channel photocouplers as standardized components rather than assembling discrete parts, manufacturing costs are reduced while maintaining multi-signal transmission capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The universal photocoupler design with standardized multi-channel architecture enables cost-effective mass production. A single manufacturing process can produce photocouplers configured for different numbers of channels, reducing tooling costs and improving manufacturing efficiency compared to producing separate discrete components for each channel.
4Ease of manufacture
If multiple insulation capacitances or insulation transformers are used to transmit multiple signals with electric or magnetic fields, then manufacturing costs are reduced, but chip area increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a nested structure where multiple LED-PD pairs are arranged in a compact, space-efficient configuration within the photocoupler housing. The components are nested or stacked in a way that minimizes the overall chip area while maintaining the electrical isolation and signal transmission capabilities of multiple channels.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from a planar arrangement of multiple insulation capacitances or transformers to a three-dimensional compact structure using optical components. By utilizing the optical domain and arranging LED-PD pairs in vertical or layered configurations, the patent achieves multi-channel signal transmission with reduced chip area compared to traditional electric or magnetic field-based isolation elements.
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 suppresses jitter in output signals, stabilizes operation, and reduces power consumption and chip area, while improving signal quality and reducing manufacturing costs by using a single RF generator for multiple channels.
Implementation Method 1
A galvanic isolation element that utilizes an electric field or magnetic field as a signal conveyance medium can overcome the aforementioned drawbacks of the photocoupler. When a magnetic field is adopted for a signal conveyance medium, an insulation transformer having coils on the two ends of an insulating layer may be used.
Data Source
AI summary
A communication device according to an embodiment includes an oscillator, a first signal generation circuit, a first insulation element, a first receiving circuit, and a first output circuit. The oscillator is configured to output a first carrier signal when at least one of a plurality of input signals that are externally input is at a first logic level. The first carrier signal and a first input signal among the input signals are input to the first signal generation circuit. The first signal generation circuit is configured to generate a first signal when the first input signal changes from a second logic level to the first logic level, output a first modulated signal based on the first signal, and thereafter output a second modulated signal based on the first carrier signal.