Half-Duplex Optical Isolator for Bi-Directional Data Transfer
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing electronic isolators face challenges in adding more optical channels due to space and pin utilization constraints, leading to increased package size and footprint, which is undesirable in electronic devices requiring high-voltage and low-voltage interface isolation.
Innovation Solution
The use of dual-purpose optoelectronic components and encapsulant control mechanisms within the isolator design allows for efficient communication across isolation boundaries with reduced package size, utilizing optoelectronic devices like LEDs and photodiodes to maintain isolation while minimizing chip and pin requirements.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If more optical channels are added to optical couplers to meet complex functionality requirements, then communication capability is improved, but package size and pin counts increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines transmit and receive optical channels into a single bidirectional communication path using time-division multiplexing. The isolator uses a single optical coupler that alternates between transmitting data from primary to secondary side and receiving data from secondary to primary side, effectively merging two separate communication channels into one physical structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The optical coupler is designed to serve multiple functions: it acts as both a transmitter and receiver medium, handles both forward and reverse data communication, and provides electrical isolation. This multi-functionality allows a single component to replace what would traditionally require multiple separate components.
2Adaptability or versatility
If more optical channels are added to optical couplers, then communication capability is improved, but pin counts increase leading to larger PCB footprint
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple communication functions into a single pin interface. The bidirectional optocoupler uses time-division multiplexing to transmit and receive data through the same physical pin, effectively halving the number of pins required compared to traditional unidirectional approaches.
Solution Approach 2:
The system employs periodic switching between transmit and receive modes. The isolator alternates between sending data from the primary side to the secondary side and receiving data in the reverse direction, using time-division multiplexing to achieve bidirectional communication through periodic action.
3Ease of manufacture
If wire bonds are used between chips in horizontal configuration, then manufacturing is simplified, but galvanic isolation is compromised due to coupling points for voltage excursions
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes the wire bonds that create galvanic coupling paths between chips. By eliminating these physical metal connections, the design achieves true galvanic isolation while maintaining optical coupling, extracting the harmful electrical connection while preserving the beneficial signal transmission.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces optical signals as an intermediary between the primary and secondary sides. Instead of direct electrical connection via wire bonds, data is transmitted through optical coupling, which acts as a mediator that transfers information without allowing electrical current or voltage excursions to pass through.
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 approach enables effective high-voltage and low-voltage interface isolation with reduced package size and footprint, enhancing the integration of additional features in electronic devices by maintaining electrical isolation while facilitating bi-directional data transfer.
Implementation Method 1
utilizing optoelectronic devices like LEDs and photodiodes
Implementation Method 2
utilizing optoelectronic devices like LEDs and photodiodes
Data Source
AI summary
An isolation system and isolation device are disclosed. An illustrative isolation device is disclosed to include first circuitry having at least a first emitter and a first detector, second circuitry having at least a dual-purpose component, an isolation material configured to electrically isolate the first circuitry from the second circuitry, and switching circuitry adapted to connect the dual-purpose component to emit a first signal for detection by the first detector in a first configuration, and to receive a second signal from the first emitter in a second configuration.