Multi-Channel SMU Power Isolation With Integrated Transformers
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing power supply subsystems in multi-channel test and measurement instruments face challenges in achieving high density and efficiency, particularly in providing isolated power channels while minimizing space and cost.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of a power supply block using an interface magnetic component to provide multiple isolated transformers, allowing for high-density, multi-channel power supply designs with reduced space and cost requirements.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If individual isolated power supplies are used for each channel, then channel independence and measurement precision are improved, but device area and complexity increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple isolated power supply channels are merged into a single integrated power supply module. The module uses a primary secondary winding transformer structure where the primary winding connects to the first power domain and multiple secondary windings provide isolated power to multiple channels, reducing the overall area compared to individual separate power supplies.
Solution Approach 2:
The power supply module serves multiple functions simultaneously: it provides galvanic isolation between channels, delivers multiple isolated power outputs, and integrates measurement and control functions within the same module, eliminating the need for separate dedicated power supplies for each channel.
2Reliability
If custom designed magnetic components are used, then isolation performance is improved, but manufacturing complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The magnetic component is segmented into standardized primary and secondary winding sections that can be manufactured using conventional techniques. The primary winding serves the first power domain while secondary windings serve isolated channels, allowing modular manufacturing and assembly rather than requiring custom integrated designs.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary power domain architecture where the primary power domain supplies power through isolated transformers to secondary power domains. This intermediary structure enables galvanic isolation using standard transformer components rather than requiring complex custom magnetic designs, simplifying manufacturing while maintaining isolation performance.
3Measurement precision
If split winding or center tap winding transformer designs are used, then channel independence is improved, but device area and manufacturing difficulty increase
Solution Approach 1:
The transformer winding structure is segmented into distinct primary and secondary sections with clear functional separation. Each secondary winding provides independent isolated power to a specific channel, achieving channel independence through standardized segmented winding design rather than complex split or center-tap configurations.
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 achieves significant space savings and cost reduction by enabling the creation of high-density, multi-channel power supply systems with efficient isolation, suitable for applications like SMUs.
Implementation Method 1
a transformer coupled to the primary power domain, to the second set of power supplies, and to the second ground
Data Source
AI summary
In some examples, the system includes a primary power domain having: a first ground; a first set of measurement devices coupled to the first ground and configured to be powered by at least one of a first set of power supplies; and a second set of measurement devices coupled to the first ground and configured to be powered by at least one of the first set of power supplies. In addition, the system includes at least two isolated secondary power domains coupled to the primary power domain, each having: a second ground different from the first ground; a transformer coupled to the primary power domain, to a second set of power supplies, and to the second ground; and a third set of measurement devices coupled to the second ground and configured to be powered by at least one of the second set of power supplies.