Transformerless Ultrasonic Transducer Driver Stage Design
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing ultrasonic measurement systems for parking assistance and industrial applications require external capacitors for transformerless activation of ultrasonic transducers, increasing costs and system complexity due to the need for multiple voltage phases and external connections.
Innovation Solution
A driver stage design where the external capacitor is used as an energy source, eliminating the need for external connections by integrating the capacitor within the circuit to provide alternating voltages for ultrasonic transducer activation, utilizing a charge pump and switch configuration to manage voltage phases.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If external capacitors are used for transformerless activation of ultrasonic transducers, then the transducer can be activated with alternating voltage phases, but the system complexity and production costs increase due to multiple external connections
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple external capacitor connections into a single integrated capacitor within the driver stage. The driver stage now contains only one external capacitor connection, while internal circuit elements (including integrated capacitors) perform the functions previously requiring multiple external capacitors. This merging reduces connection complexity while maintaining the alternating voltage activation capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The single external capacitor in the driver stage serves multiple functions: it provides energy storage for voltage phase alternation, acts as a reference for internal voltage generation, and enables both transmitting and receiving operations. Internal integrated capacitors supplement this single external capacitor to provide the full range of voltage phases needed for transducer activation, making the single external connection universally functional.
2Power
If multiple external capacitors are connected for ultrasonic transducer activation, then proper voltage phases are provided, but PCB design and system costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple external capacitor requirements into a single external capacitor connection. The driver stage internally generates additional voltage phases using integrated capacitors and charge pump circuits, eliminating the need for multiple external capacitor connections. This reduces PCB design complexity and component count, directly lowering production costs while maintaining proper voltage phase provision.
Solution Approach 2:
The driver stage acts as an intermediary between the single external capacitor and the ultrasonic transducer. It internally generates the multiple voltage phases (VDD, VDD/2, GND, -VDD/2) needed for transducer activation using the single external capacitor as the primary energy source, supplemented by internal integrated capacitors. This intermediary function maintains full power capability while reducing external connections.
3Use of energy by moving object
If external power sources and multiple external capacitors are used, then sufficient energy is provided for transducer operation, but the number of external connections increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple external energy storage components (external capacitors and external power sources) into a single external capacitor connection. The driver stage contains integrated capacitors and charge pump circuits that generate additional voltage phases internally, providing sufficient energy for both transmitting and receiving operations through this single external connection.
Solution Approach 2:
The driver stage is designed to be self-sufficient by containing all necessary energy storage and voltage generation circuitry internally. The single external capacitor connects to the driver stage, which then self-generates all required voltage phases (VDD, VDD/2, GND, -VDD/2) using internal integrated capacitors and charge pump circuits, eliminating dependency on multiple external power sources and capacitors.
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 approach simplifies the PCB design, reduces system costs, and allows for efficient ultrasonic transducer activation without an external power source, enabling cost-effective production and reduced complexity in ultrasonic measurement systems.
Implementation Method 1
The internal structure of the second charge pump (CP2) is of no relevance here. These circuits are known from the prior art (SdT). The function of the second charge pump (CP2) is to provide the higher operating voltage (VDRV2) necessary for exciting the ultrasonic transducer from the on-board power supply.
Implementation Method 2
Circuits for activating piezoceramic ultrasonic transducers are well known in the prior art (SdT).
Implementation Method 3
When reflected on an object, the reflected signal can be detected by an ultrasonic receiver. The distance between the transmitter and the object can be determined using a time-of-flight measurement.
Data Source
AI summary
Disclosed is a driver stage for activating a first ultrasonic transducer and a method for the operation thereof. The driver stage comprises a first charge pump or power source and a first capacitor. The driver stage also comprises first means for charging the first capacitor with electrical energy from the charge pump and second means for connecting the first capacitor and ultrasonic transducer to different polarities. The first means do not charge the first capacitor with energy from the charge pump or power source when the first capacitor is connected to the ultrasonic transducer by the second means.