Signal Isolator Multiplexing for Fast Abnormal State Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing isolators face challenges in detecting abnormal states, such as excessive input, with a delay time that is too long, which can lead to device breakdown, and require additional circuitry for dedicated transmission paths, increasing circuit area and current consumption.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of a time-direction coding technique within the isolator, using a fast feedback processing circuit to multiplex normal data and special data, allowing for the transmission of abnormal state information without additional dedicated paths, thereby reducing delay time and circuit complexity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of time
If a dedicated transmission path is provided for transmitting abnormal state data, then the detection speed of abnormal states is improved, but the circuit area and current consumption increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges abnormal state data transmission with the existing normal data transmission path by using the same communication line. The abnormal state is indicated by specific signal patterns (e.g., continuous high or low levels) within the existing data bus, eliminating the need for separate dedicated transmission paths while maintaining fast detection capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The communication line is designed to serve multiple functions: it transmits both normal operational data and abnormal state indicators using the same physical medium. The system interprets different signal patterns on this universal channel to distinguish between normal data and abnormal state notifications, thereby reducing circuit complexity while preserving rapid anomaly detection.
2Loss of time
If a dedicated transmission path is provided for transmitting abnormal state data, then the detection speed of abnormal states is improved, but the current consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines abnormal state transmission with the existing communication infrastructure, using the same data bus and transmission medium for both normal and abnormal data. This merging approach eliminates the need for additional current-consuming dedicated paths while maintaining rapid abnormal state detection through pattern recognition on the shared channel.
Solution Approach 2:
The existing communication line performs dual functions by transmitting both normal operational data and abnormal state indicators. The receiver distinguishes between these by analyzing signal patterns, allowing the system to detect abnormalities quickly without the overhead of separate dedicated transmission paths, thereby minimizing current consumption.
3Measurement precision
If ΔΣ modulation is used to convert analog signal to digital signal, then the quantization noise is pushed to high frequency side, but the response time for detecting abnormal states increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the abnormal state detection function from the normal data processing stream by identifying specific signal patterns that indicate abnormalities. Instead of waiting for complete data acquisition through ΔΣ modulation, the system monitors for characteristic patterns (such as sustained high or low levels) that signify abnormal conditions, enabling rapid detection while maintaining the benefits of ΔΣ modulation for normal operation.
Data Source
AI summary
An isolator of embodiments includes a ΔΣ analog-digital converter configured to convert an analog signal into a digital signal of one bit and transmit the digital signal of one bit as normal data, a time direction multiplexing circuit configured to perform time direction multiplexing of alternately performing conversion of the normal data into a digital differential signal and transmission of the digital differential signal, and transmission of a special signal different from the normal data, and an insulated transmission circuit configured to transmit the digital differential signal and the special signal transmitted from the time direction multiplexing circuit via an insulating layer.