Transformer-Based Power Combining for Isolated Data and Power
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Transformer-based systems for bidirectional data communication and power transfer through galvanic barriers are limited by the need for multiple transformers, increasing cost and space requirements, while existing power combining techniques often fall short of delivering sufficient output power efficiently.
Innovation Solution
A power oscillator apparatus with a transformer-based power combining system that includes two oscillators in series, an electromagnetic network, and a transformer with a primary and secondary winding for both power and data transmission, allowing for synchronization and efficient power combining while using a single transformer for both functions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If multiple transformers are used for bidirectional data communication and power transfer, then communication reliability is improved, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines power transfer and bidirectional data communication functions into a single transformer structure. The primary winding handles power transfer while the secondary winding enables bidirectional communication, eliminating the need for separate transformers for each function and reducing overall system complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The transformer is designed to perform multiple functions simultaneously: power transfer through the primary winding and bidirectional data communication through the secondary winding. This multi-functional design reduces the number of components needed while maintaining communication reliability.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple transformers are used for separate power and data channels, then function separation is improved, but area occupied increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges power transfer and data communication functions into a single transformer footprint. The primary and secondary windings are integrated on the same magnetic core, allowing both functions to coexist in one compact structure rather than requiring separate transformer assemblies.
Solution Approach 2:
The secondary winding is effectively nested within the same magnetic core structure as the primary winding, allowing the data communication function to be embedded within the power transfer infrastructure. This nested arrangement maximizes space utilization while maintaining functional separation.
3Power
If power combining techniques are used to increase output power, then power delivery capability is improved, but efficiency decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical or electronic power combining techniques with magnetic coupling through the transformer. The magnetic field efficiently transfers and combines power from multiple sources without the losses associated with conventional power combining methods, maintaining high efficiency while increasing output power capability.
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 enables higher output power delivery with improved efficiency and reduced complexity, overcoming the limitations of existing systems by using a single transformer for both power and data transfer, thus reducing cost and space requirements.
Implementation Method 1
a transformer with a primary circuit including a first portion coupled to the first oscillator and second portion coupled to the second oscillator
Implementation Method 2
said secondary circuit being magnetically coupled with the first and the second portion of the primary circuit to obtain an output power as combination of a first power associated to the first portion and a second power associated to the second portion of the primary circuit
Data Source
AI summary
An apparatus includes first and second oscillator circuits. A transformer has a primary winding coupling the first oscillator circuit to the second oscillator circuit and a secondary winding. A first outgoing communications circuit is coupled to the second oscillator circuit and drives an amplitude modulated data signal thereto. A first incoming communications circuit is coupled to the primary winding of the transformer. A second outgoing communications circuit is coupled to the secondary winding drives an amplitude modulated data signal thereto. A second incoming communications circuit is coupled to the secondary winding. The secondary winding is magnetically coupled with the primary winding so the secondary winding receives an output power and an incoming data transmission based upon the amplitude modulated data signal, and so the primary winding receives an incoming high speed data transmission based upon the amplitude modulated data signal.