Isolation Circuit Multiplexer for Smaller, Efficient Transformers
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing isolation circuitry, such as transformers, face challenges in achieving high efficiency and reduced footprint due to trade-offs between transformer size, voltage requirements, and transistor resistance, leading to increased power loss and system inefficiency.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of multiplexers and hysteretic feedback loops to regulate voltage levels across inverter and rectifier circuits, allowing for the use of smaller transformers and lower voltage transistors, thereby reducing power loss and improving efficiency.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If larger inductor coils and more coil turns are used for the transformer, then the coupling coefficient increases and isolation is improved, but the transformer footprint increases and power efficiency decreases due to higher transistor on-resistances
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic voltage regulation by switching between different power supply voltages (first voltage and second voltage) based on load conditions. The controller dynamically selects operating modes: first operation mode uses the first voltage for heavy loads, while second operation mode uses the second voltage for light loads, optimizing efficiency across varying conditions without requiring oversized transformer components
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the operating voltage parameter dynamically. By switching between different voltage levels (first voltage vs. second voltage) and different operation modes, the system adapts transformer and transistor operating parameters to match load requirements, reducing unnecessary power losses while maintaining isolation quality
2Power
If larger inductor coils and more coil turns are used for the transformer, then the transformer can provide larger output voltage, but the transformer footprint and transistor on-resistances increase leading to reduced power efficiency
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically adjusts output voltage capability by switching between operation modes. The controller selects the first operation mode when high power output is needed, and switches to the second operation mode when lower power suffices, allowing the transformer to provide adequate output voltage without continuously operating at maximum capacity which would require oversized components
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a multi-functional power supply system where the same transformer and transistor circuit can operate in multiple modes (first operation mode and second operation mode) to serve different power requirements. This universal design eliminates the need for separate transformers sized for maximum power, as one transformer can adapt to various power levels through mode switching
3Area of stationary object
If smaller inductor coils and fewer coil turns are used for the transformer, then the transformer footprint is reduced, but the coupling coefficient decreases and isolation quality deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses dynamic voltage switching to compensate for reduced transformer size. By optimizing the voltage levels and operation modes, the system maintains adequate coupling coefficient and isolation quality even with smaller transformer components, as the dynamic control compensates for the reduced physical coupling capability
4Power
If transistors operating at higher voltage are used to interface with a transformer with larger inductor coils, then the transformer can provide larger output voltage, but the transistor on-resistances increase reducing overall power efficiency
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic voltage selection where the controller chooses between first voltage and second voltage based on actual load requirements. This prevents continuous operation at high voltages which would require high-voltage transistors with high on-resistances, thereby reducing power losses while maintaining adequate output voltage capability when needed
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 reduces voltage stress on transistors and transformers, enabling smaller coil turns and footprints, leading to improved power efficiency and reduced system size.
Implementation Method 1
a transformer including a primary side coil and a secondary side coil that are electrically isolated from each other, but the primary side coil can transmit power and data signal to the secondary side coil, and vice versa, via magnetic coupling between the coils
Data Source
AI summary
An apparatus comprising a first switch coupled between a first power terminal and a first inverter terminal, the first switch having a first switch control input. A second switch is coupled between the first inverter terminal and a second power terminal, the second switch having a second switch control input. A third switch is coupled between the second power terminal and a second inverter terminal, the third switch having a third switch control input. A fourth switch is coupled between the second inverter terminal and a reference terminal, the fourth switch having a fourth switch control input. An inverter circuit is coupled between first and second inverter terminals, the inverter circuit having outputs coupled to primary side terminals.