Receive Circuit Magnetically Coupled Link Power Converter Isolation
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional switch mode power converters face challenges in reducing size and cost while maintaining high performance, as external isolation components like opto-couplers add size, cost, and limit feedback bandwidth and transient response.
Innovation Solution
A receive circuit with a magnetically coupled communication link between primary and secondary control dice within an integrated circuit controller, eliminating the need for external isolation components and enabling galvanic isolation at reduced cost, using amplifiers and pre-bias circuits to manage signal communication.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If external isolation components such as opto-couplers are used for sensing outputs and communication of feedback signals, then galvanic isolation between inputs and outputs is achieved, but the size and cost of the switch mode power converter increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the isolation function and signal communication function into a single integrated magnetic coupling structure. The primary and secondary control dice are magnetically coupled to each other, eliminating the need for separate external opto-couplers. This merging of functions reduces the overall size and component count while maintaining galvanic isolation.
Solution Approach 2:
The magnetic coupling structure serves multiple functions simultaneously: it provides galvanic isolation, enables bidirectional signal communication between primary and secondary control dice, and integrates the control logic for both sides. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate dedicated isolation components.
2Reliability
If external isolation components such as opto-couplers are used for sensing outputs and communication of feedback signals, then galvanic isolation between inputs and outputs is achieved, but the cost of the switch mode power converter increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the isolation function and signal communication function into a single integrated magnetic coupling structure. The primary and secondary control dice are magnetically coupled to each other, eliminating the need for separate external opto-couplers. This merging of functions reduces the overall size and component count while maintaining galvanic isolation.
Solution Approach 2:
The magnetic coupling structure serves multiple functions simultaneously: it provides galvanic isolation, enables bidirectional signal communication between primary and secondary control dice, and integrates the control logic for both sides. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate dedicated isolation components.
3Reliability
If external isolation components such as opto-couplers are used for sensing outputs and communication of feedback signals, then galvanic isolation is maintained, but the feedback bandwidth and transient response are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the optical mechanism of opto-couplers with a magnetic coupling mechanism. Magnetic coupling operates at higher frequencies with faster response times compared to optical coupling, thereby increasing the feedback bandwidth and improving transient response while maintaining galvanic isolation.
4Volume of moving object
If the number of external isolation components is reduced, then size and cost are reduced, but reliable communication across the isolation barrier becomes more difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the isolation function and signal communication function into a single integrated magnetic coupling structure. The primary and secondary control dice are magnetically coupled to each other, eliminating the need for separate external opto-couplers. This merging of functions reduces the overall size and component count while maintaining galvanic isolation.
Solution Approach 2:
The magnetic field acts as an intermediary between the primary and secondary control dice, enabling reliable signal transmission across the galvanic isolation barrier without requiring direct electrical connection or external isolation components. The magnetic coupling ensures robust communication while maintaining isolation.
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
This solution allows for reliable communication across the isolation barrier without external isolation components, reducing size and cost, and enhancing feedback bandwidth and transient response in switch mode power converters.
Implementation Method 1
A receive circuit with a magnetically coupled communication link between primary and secondary control dice within an integrated circuit controller
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3
AI summary
A receive circuit for use in a power converter controller includes a first amplifier coupled to receive an input pulse. A second amplifier is coupled to a first output of the first amplifier. The first output is coupled to be responsive to the input pulse and to a second output of the second amplifier. An output circuit is coupled to generate an output signal in response to the second output.