Monolithic DC-DC Converter with Capacitive Isolation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional DC-DC converters require multiple discrete components and packaged circuits for isolation and regulation, leading to increased space consumption and complexity, making them unsuitable for integration onto a single monolithic integrated circuit.
Innovation Solution
A power supply device with a transformer coupled to a monolithic integrated circuit, featuring a switching regulator, switch controller, and an isolator, which converts and isolates DC signals using capacitive elements instead of optical couplers, allowing for integration onto a single chip.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional DC-DC converter circuits use optical couplers or isolating signal transformers for isolation, then isolation and regulation functions are achieved, but the device complexity and space consumption increase due to multiple discrete components and packaged circuits
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the isolating signal transformer, optical coupler, and power controller into a single integrated circuit device. The primary and secondary windings are integrated on one chip with capacitive coupling for isolation, eliminating the need for multiple discrete components and packaged circuits while maintaining the isolation and regulation functions.
Solution Approach 2:
The integrated circuit performs multiple functions simultaneously: it provides isolation through capacitive coupling between primary and secondary windings, regulates the output voltage, and controls the power conversion process, all within a single device that replaces conventional separate components.
2Reliability
If conventional DC-DC converter circuits use optical couplers or isolating signal transformers for isolation, then isolation and regulation functions are achieved, but the space consumption increases due to multiple discrete components
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates the isolating signal transformer, optical coupler, and power controller into a single chip structure. The primary and secondary windings are formed on the same integrated circuit substrate with capacitive coupling, dramatically reducing the space required compared to discrete component implementations.
3Reliability
If conventional circuits use multiple discrete components and packaged circuits, then isolation and regulation functions are performed, but the manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates multiple functions (isolating signal transformer, optical coupler, power controller) into a single monolithic integrated circuit, reducing the number of components that need to be assembled, tested, and packaged separately. This integration simplifies the manufacturing process and reduces overall production costs.
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 enables compact, cost-effective, and efficient isolation and regulation of DC power, reducing space and complexity while providing high noise immunity and safety by eliminating the need for optical components.
Implementation Method 1
The transformer converts a first DC voltage applied to a primary winding of the transformer to a second DC voltage provided at a secondary winding of the transformer
Implementation Method 2
An isolator is provided on a second portion of the monolithic integrated circuit. The monolithic integrated circuit regulates the second DC signal and isolates the second DC signal from the first DC signal
Data Source
AI summary
Embodiments of the invention provide an off line DC-DC converter comprising a transformer (180) coupled to a monolithic integrated circuit (400). The transformer applies an input supply DC voltage (Vin) applied to a primary winding (181) of the transformer to produce an output supply DC voltage provided from a secondary winding (182). The monolithic integrated circuit (400) comprises a switching regulator including a switch (151) and a switch controller (100) on a first portion of the monolithic integrated circuit. A capacitive isolator (201) is provided on a second portion of the monolithic integrated circuit. The monolithic integrated circuit regulates the output supply DC voltage and isolates the output supply DC voltage from the input supply DC voltage with respect to electrical shock hazard.