Resonant Isolated Gate Driver With Shared Power and Signal Isolation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing isolated gate driver systems require separate modules for signal and power isolation, leading to increased size and complexity due to the need for two isolated components, which complicates circuit board layout and efficiency.
Innovation Solution
Integration of power and signal isolation into a single module using a resonant isolated DC-DC converter with a transformer, where a modulator generates a modulated signal based on the control signal to control switching in the primary side, and a demodulator recovers the control signal on the secondary side, allowing the transformer to provide isolation for both power and signal transmission.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If separate isolated components are used for power and signal transmission, then isolation for both power and signal is achieved, but the system size increases and requires two separate spaces on circuit board
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines separate isolated components for power and signal transmission into a single integrated isolated gate driver module. The module includes a primary winding and secondary winding that simultaneously handle both power transmission (via DC-DC conversion) and signal transmission (via isolation barrier), eliminating the need for two separate isolated components and reducing circuit board area.
Solution Approach 2:
The isolated gate driver module performs multiple functions within a single component: it provides power conversion from input voltage to output voltage, transmits control signals across the isolation barrier, and maintains galvanic isolation for both power and signal paths. This multi-functionality replaces what previously required separate dedicated components.
2Reliability
If separate isolated components are used for power and signal transmission, then isolation is maintained, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the functions of separate isolated power converter and isolated signal transmitter into a single integrated module. The module contains a unified isolation barrier with primary and secondary windings that simultaneously support both power and signal isolation, reducing the component count from two separate isolated components to one.
Solution Approach 2:
The isolated gate driver module is designed to perform multiple isolation functions concurrently: it converts power while maintaining isolation, transmits control signals while maintaining isolation, and provides a universal interface for both power and signal paths through the same isolation barrier, thereby simplifying the overall system architecture.
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 approach miniaturizes the circuit, enhances load regulation, and achieves high efficiency, particularly with edge detection modulation, while ensuring sufficient power supply to the transistor by dynamically shifting the resonance point to match the modulated signal frequency.
Implementation Method 1
a second inductor coupled to the first inductor to define a transformer
Implementation Method 2
a resonance tank circuit including one or more capacitors and a first inductor
Data Source
AI summary
In an isolated gate driver system, isolation for both power transmission and signal transmission is integrated into a single module. The isolated gate driver system includes a resonant isolated DC-DC converter, and uses a modulation scheme to transfer a control signal in combination with power supply through a transformer of the resonant isolated DC-DC converter. A resonance tank control switch modifies a capacitance in a resonance tank circuit based on a signal indicative of the control signal.