Sensor Bus Current Regulation for CTANK Charging Peaks
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing distributed system interfaces with 2-wire power bus communication interfaces face issues with undesirable current peaks during charging and recharging of drone node CTANK capacitors, which affect power dissipation and communication efficiency.
Innovation Solution
A power bus system with flexible constant current consumption is implemented, utilizing a current source, voltage clamp, and control circuit to regulate the supply current and maintain a stable voltage domain, minimizing current peaks and optimizing power usage by adjusting current flow based on demand.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If charging and recharging of drone node CTANK capacitors is performed in existing 2-wire power bus systems, then power supply to drone nodes is maintained, but undesirable current peaks occur affecting power dissipation and communication efficiency
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically adjusts the current consumption of the drone node based on operational mode. The control circuit modifies the current draw from the power bus, transitioning between different current levels to match actual power needs, thereby avoiding excessive current peaks during capacitor charging while ensuring adequate power supply continuity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the electrical parameters (current consumption, voltage levels) of the drone node depending on its operational state. By varying these parameters dynamically, the system optimizes the charging current of CTANK capacitors, reducing harmful current peaks while maintaining reliable power supply during both power and communication phases.
2Reliability
If charging and recharging of drone node CTANK capacitors is performed in existing 2-wire power bus systems, then power supply to drone nodes is maintained, but communication efficiency deteriorates due to current peaks
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically adjusts current consumption based on operational mode, creating distinct power phases and communication phases. During communication phases, the drone node operates in a low-current mode that minimizes interference with bus communication, while maintaining power supply readiness through controlled capacitor charging during dedicated power phases.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements periodic alternation between power phases and communication phases. During power phases, CTANK capacitors are charged with higher current; during communication phases, the system switches to low-current operation. This periodic action separates the harmful current peaks from the communication periods, maintaining both power supply reliability and communication efficiency.
3Loss of energy
If flexible constant current consumption is implemented with current source and control circuit, then power dissipation is reduced and communication efficiency improves, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The control circuit performs multiple functions: it manages current consumption levels, controls operational modes, regulates power phase timing, and coordinates communication phases. By consolidating these control functions into a single multi-functional unit, the patent reduces overall system complexity while achieving flexible constant current consumption and reduced power dissipation.
Solution Approach 2:
The drone node autonomously adjusts its own current consumption based on its operational state and power needs. The control circuit monitors internal conditions and automatically modulates the current draw from the power bus without requiring external control, thereby reducing the complexity of the master node and simplifying system integration.
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 reduces power dissipation, improves communication efficiency, and lowers the cost of components by minimizing the duration and voltage of the power phase, enhancing the performance of systems like park assist systems.
Implementation Method 1
The voltage clamp (301) can regulate the operating voltage (VDD) regardless of the current flowing between the first terminal (360) and the second terminal (366)
Implementation Method 2
the current source (352) is configured to adjust the current (353) through the current source (352) responsive to the adjustment signal (388)
Data Source
AI summary
A sensor device coupled to a communication interface bus, the sensor device includes: a current source having a first terminal operable to receive a supply current, a second terminal operable to provide a supply current, and a control terminal, wherein an operating voltage is supplied by a current through the current source; a voltage clamp having a first terminal coupled to the second terminal of the current source, a second terminal coupled to a power supply terminal, and an output terminal operable to provide a current sense signal; and a control circuit having an input terminal coupled to the output terminal of the voltage clamp and an output terminal coupled to the control terminal of the current source operable to provide an adjustment signal responsive to the current sense signal, wherein the current source is configured to adjust the current through the current source responsive to the adjustment signal.