Galvanically Isolated Switch Circuit for High-Voltage Resonance Tuning
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Solution Overview
Problem
High voltage field effect transistors used in resonant systems require complex and costly control blocks and level shifters, making them inefficient for tuning resonance due to high voltage on terminals relative to ground.
Innovation Solution
A galvanically isolated switch system utilizing lower voltage transistors with a bleed circuit and passive components, allowing for series connection and isolation from direct current voltages, enabling efficient tuning without the need for high voltage components.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If high voltage field effect transistors are used to handle large terminal voltages, then the system can operate at high voltages, but the system complexity and cost increase due to required control blocks and level shifters
Solution Approach 1:
The system divides the voltage handling function across multiple lower voltage transistors connected in series, where each transistor handles a portion of the total voltage. This segmentation allows the use of simpler, lower voltage devices while collectively achieving high voltage capability, eliminating the need for complex control blocks and level shifters required by single high voltage transistors
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements a nested structure where multiple transistor stages are arranged in series, with each stage handling a portion of the voltage. The control inputs are galvanically isolated from the high voltage nodes, creating nested control layers that simplify the overall control architecture while maintaining high voltage operation capability
2Productivity
If high voltage field effect transistors are used to short out capacitors for resonance tuning, then resonance tuning is achieved, but the cost increases due to expensive high voltage components and associated control circuitry
Solution Approach 1:
The high voltage switching function is segmented across multiple lower voltage transistors, each capable of being manufactured more cheaply. The series connection of these transistors achieves the required voltage blocking capability while using economically viable component choices, reducing overall system cost while maintaining resonance tuning functionality
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs lower voltage transistors that are cheaper and more readily available than high voltage alternatives. These transistors are used in a configuration where their individual voltage ratings are sufficient when combined in series, allowing the use of cost-effective components rather than expensive high voltage specialized devices
3Ease of operation
If control blocks and level shifters are added to high voltage transistors, then the transistors can be controlled, but the system becomes more complex and costly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces galvanic isolation as an intermediary mechanism between the control inputs and the high voltage transistor nodes. This isolation allows control signals to be applied without requiring complex level shifters, as the control inputs operate at different voltage potentials while still effectively controlling the switching action through the isolated interface
Solution Approach 2:
The control input structure is designed to be universal across multiple transistor stages, with each control input capable of controlling its associated transistor through the galvanic isolation interface. This multi-functional control approach simplifies the overall control circuitry by using a consistent control mechanism across all voltage stages rather than requiring separate level shifting circuits for each transistor
Data Source
AI summary
A galvanically isolated switch system and method comprising a plurality of switches having at least one terminal in series electrical connection, at least one control input electrically connected to at least one of the plurality of switches, wherein the at least one control input is isolated from direct current voltages and at least one passive component connected across the plurality of switches.