Hybrid Signal Coupling Network for Low-Frequency Transfer
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing electronic circuit coupling methods either block low frequency and DC signal information when using AC coupling or make DC operating points dependent on each other when using DC coupling, lacking flexibility and information conveyance.
Innovation Solution
A coupling network that combines AC and DC coupling using a switched capacitor circuit, providing both AC and DC coupling paths between functional circuit blocks, allowing low frequency information conveyance and common mode decoupling flexibility.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If AC coupling is used between circuit blocks, then common mode decoupling flexibility is provided, but low frequency and DC signal information is blocked
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling network is segmented into two parallel signal paths: an AC coupling path with a capacitor for common mode decoupling, and a DC coupling path with a switched capacitor circuit for low frequency information conveyance. Each path handles specific frequency ranges independently, resolving the contradiction between common mode flexibility and low frequency information preservation.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention adds a temporal dimension to DC coupling by using a switched capacitor circuit that operates in periodic charge-transfer cycles. This transforms the traditional continuous DC coupling into a pulsed charge transfer mechanism, enabling low frequency signal conveyance while maintaining independence from common mode voltage variations.
2Loss of information
If DC coupling is used between circuit blocks, then low frequency information conveyance is enabled, but DC operating points become dependent on each other
Solution Approach 1:
The switched capacitor circuit acts as an intermediary that transfers charge between circuit blocks without creating direct DC voltage dependencies. By using periodic charge transfer through capacitors rather than direct conductive paths, low frequency information is conveyed while DC operating points remain independent.
3Adaptability or versatility
If only AC coupling is provided, then common mode decoupling flexibility is available, but low frequency information is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The invention merges AC coupling and DC coupling functionality into a single hybrid coupling network. The parallel combination of the AC coupling capacitor and the switched capacitor DC coupling path enables both common mode decoupling flexibility and reliable low frequency information conveyance simultaneously.
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
Enables effective conveyance of low frequency information and independent DC operating points between circuit blocks, providing a flat gain response down to very low frequencies and immunity to noise, while reducing submodulation and intermodulation issues.
Implementation Method 1
a first capacitor for providing AC coupling between the first and second functional circuit blocks
Implementation Method 2
a switched capacitor circuit coupled to receive a first common mode voltage corresponding to the first functional circuit block and a second common mode voltage corresponding to the second functional circuit block
Data Source
AI summary
A signal coupling method and apparatus is disclosed. A coupling network is coupled to convey signals from first functional circuit block to a second functional circuit block. The coupling network includes a first signal path having a first capacitor for providing AC coupling between the first and second functional circuit blocks. The coupling network further includes a second signal path in parallel with the first signal path. The second signal path includes a switched capacitor circuit coupled to receive a first common mode voltage corresponding to the first functional circuit block and a second common mode voltage corresponding to the second functional circuit block.