Synchronous Rectifier Trigger Circuit for RF Switching Timing

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing wireless power transfer systems face inefficiencies due to unsynchronized switching points in rectifiers, leading to power loss and insufficient power delivery to loads, particularly in resonant and non-resonant electric or magnetic field coupling systems.

Innovation Solution

A synchronous rectifier system utilizing a trigger circuit with a differential comparator to synchronize switching points with a sinusoidal RF power signal, comprising a filter and sampling circuits to improve efficiency and reduce delays, and a load-independent class E rectifier design to maintain stable power delivery across varying loads.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Loss of energy

If conventional rectifier switching is used without synchronization, then device complexity is reduced, but power transfer efficiency deteriorates due to unsynchronized switching points

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvepower transfer efficiencyVSAvoidrectifier circuit complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

Loss of energyVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements a feedback mechanism where the switching points of the rectifier are synchronized with the received RF signal waveform. The controller monitors the signal characteristics and adjusts switching timing accordingly, creating a closed-loop system that optimizes power transfer efficiency while managing complexity through intelligent control

Inventive Principle:

Principle #23Feedback

Solution Approach 2:

The patent applies preliminary action by pre-synchronizing the rectifier switching points with the expected waveform characteristics before power transfer occurs. The system prepares the switching timing in advance based on predicted signal parameters, ensuring optimal efficiency from the start of power transfer without requiring complex real-time adjustments

Inventive Principle:

Principle #10Preliminary action

2Productivity

If synchronous rectification with trigger circuit is implemented, then power transfer efficiency is improved, but device complexity increases due to additional components

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvepower delivery capabilityVSAvoidrectifier system complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

ProductivityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The trigger circuit and controller are designed to perform multiple functions: generating switching signals, synchronizing with the RF waveform, and adapting to varying load conditions. This multi-functionality consolidates what could be separate complex subsystems into integrated components, improving power delivery while managing overall system complexity

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent merges the trigger circuit functionality with the existing rectifier structure by integrating the switching control directly into the rectifier operation. The controller combines waveform synchronization and switching generation in a unified control mechanism, reducing the need for separate independent systems and balancing complexity with performance gains

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

3Manufacturing precision

If propagation delay in trigger circuit is reduced, then switching accuracy is improved, but manufacturing precision requirements increase

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveswitching point accuracyVSAvoidcircuit fabrication difficulty

Core Design Contradiction:

Manufacturing precisionVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The patent addresses propagation delay by optimizing circuit parameters such as transistor sizing, gate resistance, and capacitor values to minimize delay without requiring extreme manufacturing precision. By adjusting these parameters within standard fabrication capabilities, the system achieves accurate switching points while remaining manufacturable with conventional tolerances

Inventive Principle:

Principle #35Parameter changes

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 synchronous rectifier system enhances power transfer efficiency, ensures stable power delivery, and reduces costs by minimizing power loss and propagation delays, while maintaining efficiency across varying load conditions.

Implementation Method 1

a differential comparator for generating a trigger signal by comparing a positive input signal received at a receive element of the receiver to a negative input signal received at the receive element

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectDifferential comparison:

Implementation Method 2

The synchronous rectifier may synchronize the switching points in the rectifier with a waveform of a received sinusoidal RF power signal

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectSynchronous rectification:

Implementation Method 3

The trigger circuit may further comprise a filter for filtering at least one of the input signals. The filter may filter or clean the inputs signals

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectSignal filtering: Filter (electronic)

Data Source

PatentUS20260031708A1Synchronous rectifier for use in a wireless power transfer system

Publication Date: 2026.01.29 SOLACE POWER INC

AI summary

A trigger circuit for use in a rectifier of a receiver of a wireless power transfer system is provided. The rectifier is for receiving wireless power transferred from a transmitter of the wireless power transfer system. The trigger circuit comprises a differential comparator for generating a trigger signal by comparing a positive input signal received at a receive element of the receiver to a negative input signal received at the receive element.