Galvanic Isolation Barrier for Relay Device Power Management
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional relay devices lack effective isolation from input signals, leading to potential damage and require separate power supplies, which increases complexity and cost.
Innovation Solution
A relay device incorporating a galvanic isolation barrier, protection control, and power extractor, along with self-powering circuitry using energy storage, to isolate input signals and manage power supply initiation/termination without a separate power source, utilizing MOSFETs and thermo-electric-isolation for reliable operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional relay devices are used without galvanic isolation, then the device complexity is reduced, but the reliability deteriorates due to potential damage from input signals
Solution Approach 1:
A galvanic isolation barrier is introduced as an intermediary component between the input signal and the relay control circuitry. This barrier electrically isolates the input side from the control side, preventing damage from high voltage or noisy input signals while allowing control signals to pass through. The barrier acts as a mediator that protects the sensitive control electronics without requiring complete system redesign.
2Reliability
If a separate power supply is used for the relay device, then the reliability is improved, but the device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The relay device is designed to extract and store power from the load circuit itself using a power extractor and energy storage device. The control circuit monitors the energy storage level and autonomously manages power extraction and storage without requiring external power supply management. This self-service approach eliminates the need for separate power supply circuits while ensuring reliable operation.
3Reliability
If power is continuously supplied to the relay device, then the operational reliability is improved, but the energy consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The control circuit operates in periodic cycles, activating the relay only when needed based on control signals received through the galvanic isolation barrier. The power extractor operates periodically to recharge the energy storage device, and the control circuit monitors energy levels to determine when power extraction should occur. This periodic operation pattern reduces continuous energy consumption while maintaining operational readiness.
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 provides reliable signal isolation, reduces noise, eliminates the need for a separate power supply, and enhances reliability with low power consumption and a compact design, while protecting the device and load from excessive current and temperature threats.
Implementation Method 1
A relay device is provided that maintains isolation from an input signal to the relay device. For example, a galvanic isolation barrier is coupled to the input of the relay device to electrically isolate the input from other components of the relay device.
Implementation Method 2
Another example includes another relay device that is comprised thermo-electric-isolation (TEI) galvanic isolation barrier, relay controller, self-power control loop, and a pair of metal-oxide semiconductor field-effect transistors (MOSFETs).
Data Source
AI summary
One example includes a relay device that is comprised of a galvanic isolation barrier, a protection control and power extractor, and an electronic switch. The galvanic isolation barrier is coupled to an input of the relay device and receives a switch control signal and outputs another switch control signal. The protection control and power extractor is coupled to an output of the galvanic isolation barrier. The protection control and power extractor extracts power from a power supply coupled to the relay device. The protection control and power extractor is responsive to the other switch control signal and generates a protection signal in response to a determination of an operating parameter of the relay device. The protection control and power extractor further outputs an electronic switch device signal based on the generated protection signal.