Phase Track Controller for Ultrasonic Transducer Lock Stability
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current ultrasonic transducer driving systems are limited by resonant circuits that operate in narrow frequency ranges, leading to high production costs and the need for separate circuits for each transducer frequency, and suffer from loss of lock due to noise or perturbations, which affects phase tracking.
Innovation Solution
A system and method using a linear phase track controller that adjusts voltage and frequency based on current error signals and resonance parameters, including phase angle, to drive ultrasonic transducers across a wide range of frequencies, with mechanisms to prevent loss of lock by switching between linear and nonlinear frequency control mechanisms.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a linear phase track controller is used to accurately generate a wide range of frequencies, then frequency adaptability is improved, but loss of lock occurs due to noise or perturbations
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a feedback mechanism where the controller continuously monitors the transducer's resonant frequency and adjusts the drive frequency accordingly. This closed-loop feedback system detects phase changes and frequency shifts, automatically correcting deviations to maintain lock and prevent loss of lock conditions while preserving wide frequency adaptability
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs preventive measures by monitoring system parameters before loss of lock occurs. The controller detects early signs of instability or frequency drift and applies corrective action in advance, cushioning against the harmful effect of complete lock loss and maintaining reliable operation across different frequencies
2Measurement precision
If resonant circuits are used to drive ultrasonic transducers, then frequency accuracy is improved, but device complexity increases due to separate circuits for each frequency
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a universal controller that can drive ultrasonic transducers across a wide frequency range without requiring separate resonant circuits for each frequency. The controller adapts to different transducer frequencies through software-based frequency generation and adaptive feedback control, eliminating the need for multiple dedicated hardware circuits while maintaining frequency accuracy
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical/resonant circuit approaches with a digital control system. Instead of using physical resonant circuits tuned to specific frequencies, the system uses a microcontroller or DSP that generates drive signals through software algorithms, substituting electronic/digital mechanisms for analog resonant circuits and reducing overall system complexity
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
Enables efficient driving of ultrasonic transducers with different frequencies using the same driver, reducing production costs and significantly minimizing loss of lock occurrences by maintaining accurate phase tracking and resonant frequency operation.
Implementation Method 1
The controller is configured to vary the frequency based on at least one parameter indicative of whether the transducer is at or near a resonance state... maintaining the drive frequency at or substantially at a resonant frequency of the transducer
Data Source
AI summary
A system and method for driving ultrasonic transducers and improvements to a phase track controller for reducing loss of lock occurrence is disclosed and described.