Single-Wire Optical Isolation Circuit to Prevent Data Link Latch-Up
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Bi-directional data circuits in chargers face issues with latching due to noise coupling and ground loops, leading to improper charging and false status indications.
Innovation Solution
A bi-directional communication system using two independent switching circuits with optical isolators to prevent latch-up, where each data line is coupled to open drain devices and optocouplers, allowing for effective electrical isolation over a single wire link without circuit latch-up.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If bi-directional isolation circuits are used in chargers, then electrical isolation of data streams is achieved, but latching conditions occur due to noise coupling and ground loops
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary isolation circuit between the data stream and the charger circuitry. This isolation circuit includes a transformer that magnetically couples the isolated data stream to the charger's data input, preventing direct electrical connection and thus blocking the propagation of noise coupling and ground loops that cause latching conditions.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces direct electrical connection (conductive path) with magnetic coupling through a transformer. This substitution eliminates the galvanic connection that allows noise and ground potential differences to cause latching, while still enabling bidirectional data communication through magnetic field coupling.
2Adaptability or versatility
If traditional bi-directional isolation circuits are used, then data communication is enabled, but noise coupling between charger pockets causes latched conditions
Solution Approach 1:
The transformer acts as an intermediary that allows bidirectional data communication between isolated circuits while preventing noise coupling. The magnetic coupling enables signal transmission in both directions without providing a direct electrical path for noise to propagate between charger pockets.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent segments the charger circuit into electrically isolated sections using the transformer-based isolation circuit. Each charger pocket operates in an electrically isolated environment, preventing noise generated in one pocket from affecting other pockets, thus eliminating the harmful noise coupling effect.
3Ease of operation
If ground loops are present in multi-unit chargers, then data retrieval and programming are enabled, but latched conditions occur leading to false status indications
Solution Approach 1:
The isolation circuit with transformer serves as an intermediary between the computer and charger circuits during data retrieval and programming operations. It enables bidirectional data communication while blocking ground loop currents, preventing latched conditions that would otherwise cause false status indications.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the direct galvanic connection that allows ground loops with magnetic coupling through the transformer. This substitution maintains data communication capability while eliminating the ground loop path, thus preventing latched conditions and ensuring accurate status indications.
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 effectively isolates bi-directional data streams, preventing latch-up conditions and ensuring proper charging and accurate status indications by eliminating noise coupling and ground loops in multi-unit chargers.
Implementation Method 1
A circuit is provided which isolates bi-directional communication over a single wire link without circuit latch-up. The isolation is provided by two identical but independent switching circuits designed to eliminate latch-up while controlling two optical isolators in a bi-directional mode of operation.
Data Source
AI summary
An isolation apparatus and method are provided for bi-directional communication over a single wire link without circuit latch up. The isolation is provided by two identical but independent switching circuits designed to eliminate latch up while controlling two optical isolators in a bi-directional mode of operation.