Galvanic Isolator Using Transformer LC Oscillator
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current galvanic isolation methods in devices lack efficient and cost-effective solutions for signal isolation, particularly in applications where international safety standards mandate electrical and physical separation to prevent shock hazards.
Innovation Solution
A galvanic isolator utilizing a transformer with a primary winding that receives digital signals from a microcontroller and an inductance-capacitance (LC) oscillator on the secondary winding, where a detector generates a digital output based on detected oscillations, effectively isolating signals between the microcontroller and a digital-to-analog converter (DAC).
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional galvanic isolation methods are used, then electrical and physical separation is achieved to prevent shock hazards, but the solution is not cost-effective and lacks efficiency
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical/electrical isolation components with a magnetic field-based isolation system. The primary winding receives digital signals and generates a magnetic field that induces corresponding signals in the secondary winding, achieving galvanic isolation without direct electrical connection. This substitution of mechanical/electrical systems with electromagnetic fields resolves the contradiction by providing reliable isolation while reducing manufacturing costs through simpler component requirements.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes changes in magnetic permeability and electromagnetic coupling parameters to achieve signal transmission across the isolation barrier. By adjusting the magnetic core properties and winding configurations, the system maintains reliable isolation while optimizing for cost-effective manufacturing through standardizable parameters and common magnetic materials.
2Reliability
If galvanic isolation is implemented using conventional methods, then safety standards compliance is achieved, but the solution is complex and not cost-effective
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the isolation function with standard transformer design, combining magnetic coupling with digital signal processing in a single integrated structure. The primary and secondary windings are coupled through a magnetic core, eliminating the need for separate isolation components and reducing overall device complexity while maintaining safety standards compliance.
Solution Approach 2:
The transformer-based isolation system serves multiple functions simultaneously: electrical isolation, signal transmission, and impedance matching. This multi-functionality reduces device complexity by consolidating what would traditionally require multiple separate components into a single universal element that satisfies safety standards while enabling cost-effective implementation.
3Productivity
If direct electrical connection is used between microcontroller and DAC, then data transfer is simple, but shock hazards exist and safety standards are violated
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a magnetic field as an intermediary between the microcontroller and DAC. The primary winding converts electrical signals to magnetic field variations, which then induce corresponding electrical signals in the secondary winding connected to the DAC. This intermediary magnetic coupling enables efficient data transfer while preventing direct electrical connection and eliminating shock hazards.
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 provides reliable and cost-effective signal isolation, ensuring compliance with safety standards while enabling data transfer between sensitive components, such as microcontrollers and DACs, in devices like multi-chip modules and programmable logic controllers.
Implementation Method 1
a transformer with a primary winding that receives digital signals from a microcontroller
Implementation Method 2
an inductance-capacitance (LC) oscillator on the secondary winding, where a detector generates a digital output based on detected oscillations
Data Source
AI summary
A device includes a transformer that further includes a primary and a secondary windings. A switch is coupled to the primary winding, and this switch is controlled by the received digital input signal. An oscillator is further formed on the secondary winding where the oscillator oscillates in response to variations of the received input signal. A detector coupled to the oscillator will then detect the oscillations in response to the variations of the received input signal. Thereafter, the detector generates a digital output based on the detected oscillations.