Transformer-Isolated Pulse Signal Transmission for Low-Voltage Gate Drive
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing signal transmission devices face challenges in efficiently isolating and transmitting pulse signals between input and output circuits while avoiding the need for high-withstand-voltage processes, which are costly and complex.
Innovation Solution
A signal transmission device comprising a transmission circuit, reception circuit, and isolation circuit, utilizing transformers to isolate and transmit pulse signals, with a detection circuit to adjust driving of switching devices based on specific signal periods, and employing gate driver ICs to manage switching device gates, reducing the need for high-withstand-voltage processes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If high-withstand-voltage processes are used to isolate and transmit pulse signals, then signal transmission reliability is improved, but manufacturing cost and process complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an isolation circuit as an intermediary component between the transmission circuit and reception circuit. This isolation circuit uses transformers to couple the primary and secondary sides, enabling signal transmission while maintaining electrical isolation. The intermediary isolation circuit allows the use of lower withstand-voltage processes for the main circuits, reducing manufacturing complexity and cost while preserving signal transmission reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent divides the signal transmission system into three separate modules: transmission circuit, isolation circuit, and reception circuit. Each module can be manufactured using optimized processes suitable for its specific requirements. The transmission and reception circuits can use low-to-middle withstand-voltage processes, while the isolation circuit handles the high-voltage isolation requirements, thereby reducing overall manufacturing complexity.
2Speed
If pulse signals are transmitted with high frequency and precision, then signal transmission speed is improved, but signal distortion and loss increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs periodic pulse signaling with specific duty cycles and timing patterns. The transmission circuit generates periodic pulse signals that are optimized for transformer coupling, ensuring reliable transmission at high speeds. The periodic nature of the signals allows for consistent transformer operation and reduces signal distortion.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent incorporates feedback mechanisms in the reception circuit to detect and correct signal degradation. The reception circuit monitors the received pulse signals and uses feedback control to compensate for distortion and loss, maintaining signal quality even at high transmission speeds. This feedback ensures that the transmitted and received signals remain synchronized and accurate.
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 enables efficient isolation and transmission of pulse signals while lowering manufacturing costs by using common low-to-middle-withstand-voltage processes, suitable for applications like power supply and motor driving devices in vehicles.
Implementation Method 1
The isolation circuit is configured to transmit the first internal signal and second internal signal while isolating between the transmission circuit and reception circuit
Data Source
AI summary
A signal transmission device includes a transmission circuit, a reception circuit, and an isolation circuit. The transmission circuit is configured to drive at least one of a first internal signal and a second internal signal at a specific period according to an external signal. The reception circuit includes: a detection circuit configured to be able to detect that the period of at least one of the first internal signal and the second internal signal is the specific period; a first driving circuit configured to set the gate of a switching device to high impedance state according to the detection result of the detection circuit; and a second driving circuit configured to turn ON the switching device by inputting a specific voltage to the gate according to the detection result. The specific voltage has a voltage value higher than or equal to the ON threshold voltage of the switching device.


