Transformer-Coupled Pulse Clock Transmission Without High-Voltage Processing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing signal transmission devices face challenges in efficiently transmitting pulse signals while maintaining insulation between input and output circuits, particularly in applications requiring high withstand voltage, which increases manufacturing costs and complexity.
Innovation Solution
A signal transmission device configuration that includes a semiconductor integrated circuit with a transformer chip providing DC insulation between a controller chip and a driver chip, using two transformers to transmit pulse signals, allowing for cost-effective production without the need for high withstand voltage processes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If high withstand voltage processes are used to maintain insulation between input and output circuits, then insulation reliability is improved, but manufacturing cost and device complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a transformer as an intermediary device between the controller chip and driver chip. The transformer provides galvanic isolation (DC insulation) between the primary side (controller) and secondary side (driver), allowing signal transmission while maintaining circuit insulation without requiring complex high withstand voltage processes in the semiconductor fabrication. This mediator approach resolves the contradiction by achieving insulation reliability through a dedicated isolation component rather than through complex manufacturing processes.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the need for complex high withstand voltage semiconductor manufacturing processes with a more straightforward approach using standard semiconductor fabrication followed by transformer integration. Instead of relying on advanced manufacturing techniques to achieve insulation, the solution uses electrical isolation through transformer coupling, substituting complex mechanical/chemical manufacturing processes with a simpler fabrication approach combined with an isolation component.
2Reliability
If high withstand voltage processes are used to maintain insulation between input and output circuits, then insulation reliability is improved, but manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The transformer serves as an intermediary that provides insulation functionality without requiring expensive high withstand voltage semiconductor manufacturing processes. By using a standard transformer component (which can be manufactured using conventional processes) rather than specialized high-voltage semiconductor fabrication, the solution achieves insulation reliability at lower manufacturing cost.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent segments the system into distinct functional modules: a controller chip, a transformer, and a driver chip. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized and manufactured independently using appropriate processes. The controller and driver can be fabricated using standard low-cost semiconductor processes, while the transformer provides the insulation function separately, avoiding the need for expensive integrated high-voltage processes across the entire device.
3Productivity
If two transformers are used to transmit pulse signals with DC insulation, then signal transmission efficiency is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The transformer is designed to perform multiple functions: it provides DC insulation between circuits, transmits pulse signals efficiently through magnetic coupling, and enables bidirectional communication capability. By making the transformer multi-functional, the patent achieves signal transmission efficiency and insulation simultaneously without requiring additional separate components for each function, thereby limiting the increase in device 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
The solution enables efficient pulse signal transmission with insulation between circuits, reducing manufacturing costs and simplifying the production process while maintaining effective signal transmission in applications like power supply and motor drive devices.
Implementation Method 1
a transformer chip providing DC insulation between a controller chip and a driver chip, using two transformers to transmit pulse signals
Data Source
AI summary
A signal transmission device includes a first pulse transmitting circuit configured to generate a first transmission pulse signal in synchronization with one of a rising edge and a falling edge of a first reference clock signal, a first pulse receiving circuit configured to receive a first reception pulse signal and generate a second reference clock signal, a first insulation communication circuit configured to transmit the first transmission pulse signal as the first reception pulse signal while insulating between the first pulse transmitting circuit and the first pulse receiving circuit, and a drive clock signal generating circuit configured to generate a drive clock signal having a predetermined oscillation frequency and a predetermined duty or a predetermined pulse width in synchronization with the second reference clock signal.