Opto-Electronic Power Transfer Assembly for EMI-Free Isolation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing power transfer technologies, such as magnetic induction transformers and switching power supplies, face inefficiencies and electromagnetic interference issues, particularly in sensitive electronic circuits, and require complex components to stabilize DC voltage.
Innovation Solution
Utilizing high-efficiency opto-electronic devices, specifically LEDs, to create a photonic equivalent of an induction transformer through photon recycling, enabling bidirectional power transfer and regulation of current and voltage without magnetic fields.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Power
If magnetic induction transformers are used for power transfer, then voltage transformation is achieved, but electromagnetic interference and radiation occur
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the magnetic field-based induction transformer with an opto-electronic system using LEDs and photodetectors. This substitution eliminates electromagnetic radiation by using light (optical field) instead of magnetic fields for power transfer, thereby resolving the EMI issue while maintaining power transfer functionality
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an optical intermediary (light) between the transmitter LED and receiver photodetector to transfer power. This intermediary enables wireless or contactless power transfer without direct electromagnetic coupling, eliminating the harmful electromagnetic radiation associated with traditional transformers
2Loss of energy
If switching power supplies are used for DC-DC conversion, then high efficiency is achieved, but ripple voltage and EMI occur
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces switching power supply circuitry with an opto-electronic power transfer system. This substitution eliminates the need for high-frequency switching operations that generate ripple voltage and EMI, while maintaining high conversion efficiency through direct optical coupling between LED and photodetector
3Reliability
If opto-isolators are used for electrical isolation, then safety is improved, but power transfer capability is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the operational parameters of the opto-electronic system by using high-power LEDs and optimized photodetector arrays to increase the optical power transfer capability. This allows the system to maintain electrical isolation while significantly increasing the power transfer capability beyond traditional opto-isolator limitations
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
Achieves efficient, interference-free power transfer and regulation in electrically isolated circuits, reducing component count and enabling miniaturization, suitable for sensitive electronic applications.
Implementation Method 1
Power applied to the light-emitting diode produces light
Implementation Method 2
Light-emitting diodes (LEDs) both emit light when electrically stimulated
Implementation Method 3
a light-absorber (typically a silicon photodiode or phototransistor)... Power applied to the light-emitting diode produces light which generates a current in the photodiode
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3~5
Figure 6~8
AI summary
An opto-electronic power transfer assembly comprises a first circuit comprising a primary LED (3), and a second circuit comprising a secondary LED (5), wherein the primary and secondary LEDs are optically coupled to each other so as to provide a bidirectional current transfer ratio therebetween of at least 32%. With such an assembly, light can be used in place of a magnetic field to make a photonic equivalent of an induction transformer.