Isolated Gate Driver Circuit with Shared Signal Paths
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing systems require multiple communication paths with isolators for SPI communication between MCUs and power devices, which are costly and hinder miniaturization, especially in high-voltage applications like electric vehicles, and there is a need for efficient failure detection and location identification in vehicle-mounted electronic systems.
Innovation Solution
A semiconductor device with dual isolators and integrated circuits for transmitting and receiving signals, including a timer and A/D converter, allows for reduced area and cost by consolidating communication paths and enables reliable data transmission and failure detection.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If multiple communication paths with isolators are used for SPI communication between MCU and power device, then reliable data transmission is achieved, but device cost and area increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple communication functions into a single isolator by implementing both control signal transmission and sensor data acquisition through one isolator interface. The control unit transmits drive signals to the power device while simultaneously receiving sensor data through the same isolator, eliminating the need for separate isolators for each communication path.
Solution Approach 2:
The isolator is designed to perform multiple functions: transmitting control signals from the control unit to the power device, receiving sensor data from the power device, and providing galvanic isolation for all these functions through a single device. This multi-functional approach reduces the total number of isolators required in the system.
2Reliability
If multiple isolators are used for separate communication paths, then communication reliability is improved, but miniaturization of the system is hindered
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple communication paths into a single isolator interface, combining control signal transmission and sensor data reception through one galvanic isolation barrier. This integration significantly reduces the area required in the gate driver IC by eliminating redundant isolator components and their associated circuitry.
3Reliability
If at least two communication paths including isolators are required for SPI communication, then data acquisition is reliable, but gate driver IC cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines sensor data acquisition and control signal transmission into a single communication path through one isolator, eliminating the need for multiple separate isolators. This reduction in component count directly lowers the manufacturing cost of the gate driver IC while maintaining reliable data acquisition through the integrated isolator interface.
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 reduces the size and cost of power transistor control circuits while enabling reliable data acquisition and failure detection, supporting continuous vehicle operation even in the presence of faults.
Implementation Method 1
A galvanic isolator (hereinafter referred to as an isolator) such as a capacitor or a transformer is used for such communication between the power transistor and MCU
Data Source
AI summary
A semiconductor device includes first and second isolators, a first transmitting circuit that transmits a transmission signal via the first isolator, a first receiving circuit that receives a received signal corresponding to the transmission signal via the first isolator, an output driver that outputs a drive signal for driving a power device based on the received signal, a timer that inputs first and second signals having first and second information associated with the power device, respectively, and outputs a third signal from the first and second information, a second transmitting circuit that transmits the third signal via the second isolator and a second receiving circuit that receives a signal corresponding to the third signal via the second isolator.