Transformer Isolation Switch for Low-Cost Signal Sequencing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing signal transmission devices using photocouplers for isolating primary and secondary circuits are costly due to the need for high-withstand-voltage processes, limiting their application in cost-sensitive environments like vehicle-mounted devices.
Innovation Solution
A semiconductor integrated circuit device using a transformer chip with spiral coils to isolate and transmit signals between primary and secondary circuits, eliminating the need for dedicated high-withstand-voltage processes and reducing manufacturing costs.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If photocouplers are used to isolate primary and secondary circuits, then electrical isolation is achieved, but manufacturing cost increases due to high-withstand-voltage processes
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces photocouplers (optical isolation devices) with a transformer-based isolation mechanism. The transformer uses magnetic coupling between primary and secondary coils to achieve electrical isolation without requiring high-withstand-voltage semiconductor processes, thereby reducing manufacturing costs while maintaining isolation reliability
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the isolation mechanism from optical (photocoupler) to magnetic (transformer), and modifies the electrical parameters by using standard voltage ratings for the transformer components rather than requiring specialized high-withstand-voltage processes, thus reducing manufacturing complexity and cost
2Reliability
If photocouplers are used for signal transmission with isolation, then signal transmission is achieved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines signal transmission and electrical isolation functions into a single transformer component. The transformer simultaneously provides galvanic isolation and signal coupling, eliminating the need for separate photocoupler devices and reducing overall device complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The transformer serves multiple functions: it provides electrical isolation between primary and secondary circuits, transmits signals bidirectionally, and offers galvanic coupling. This multi-functionality replaces what would otherwise require multiple separate components, reducing device complexity
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 signal transmission while maintaining electrical isolation, reducing manufacturing costs, and making it suitable for applications in vehicle-mounted power supply and motor driving devices.
Implementation Method 1
A semiconductor integrated circuit device using a transformer chip with spiral coils to isolate and transmit signals between primary and secondary circuits
Data Source
AI summary
A conduction circuit includes a first primary coil that is connected to a pulse supply circuit, and a first secondary coil that is electromagnetically coupled to the first primary coil. The pulse supply circuit is configured to supply a pulse signal to the first primary coil under a state in which a control signal is at a first level, and supply a pulse signal to a second primary coil for a certain period after a time point when the control signal is switched from the first level to a second level that is different from the first level.