Voltage Level Translator Circuit for Medical Device Communication
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Solution Overview
Problem
Communication between electronic devices operating at different supply voltage levels is sub-optimal or impossible due to voltage differences, requiring multiple programming cables and increasing complexity and cost, especially in medical devices like implantable cochlear stimulators.
Innovation Solution
A voltage level translator circuit using a diode and capacitor to convert digital signal voltage levels to match the supply voltage of the receiving device, eliminating the need for additional power supplies or dedicated power signals.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If voltage level translation circuitry is included in the programming cable to convert between different voltage levels, then communication between devices with different supply voltages is enabled, but the complexity and cost increase due to requiring different programming cables for each BTE processor voltage level
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a voltage level translator circuit as an intermediary component that converts voltage levels between the first device and second device. This translator is integrated into the communication interface circuitry, allowing a single programming cable to accommodate multiple voltage levels by dynamically translating signals between different voltage domains without requiring separate cables for each voltage level.
Solution Approach 2:
The programming cable is designed with universal voltage level translation capabilities, enabling it to communicate with BTE processors operating at different voltage levels (e.g., 2.0V, 2.7V, 3.0V) using the same cable. The translation circuitry detects the voltage level of the connected device and automatically adapts, making the cable multi-functional rather than requiring separate specialized cables for each voltage level.
2Device complexity
If a single programming cable is used to program multiple BTE processors with different voltage levels, then complexity and cost are reduced, but reliable communication becomes difficult due to voltage level mismatches
Solution Approach 1:
The patent dynamically changes the voltage level parameter of the communication interface based on the connected device's supply voltage. The voltage level translator circuit adjusts its operating voltage to match the BTE processor's voltage level, ensuring that digital signals are transmitted at appropriate voltage levels for reliable communication regardless of whether the device operates at 2.0V, 2.7V, or 3.0V.
Solution Approach 2:
The communication interface incorporates dynamic voltage level adjustment capabilities, where the voltage translation is not fixed but adapts in real-time based on the connected device's requirements. This dynamic adaptation ensures reliable communication across different voltage levels while using a single programming cable, as the system automatically configures the appropriate voltage level for each connection.
3Device complexity
If voltage level translation is implemented without dedicated power signal wires, then the cable design is simplified, but generating the required input voltage signals becomes more challenging
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses the existing digital signal lines to bootstrap the voltage level translation process. By leveraging the data signals already present on the communication interface, the voltage level translator generates its required input voltage signals without needing separate dedicated power signal wires. The digital signals themselves are used to charge capacitors that provide the necessary voltage levels for the translation circuitry.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent combines the function of data transmission and voltage generation into the same communication interface lines. The digital signal wires serve dual purposes: transmitting data and simultaneously providing the voltage input signals needed for the level translator. This merging eliminates the need for separate power signal wires, simplifying the cable design while maintaining ease of manufacture through efficient resource utilization.
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
Facilitates reliable communication between devices with different supply voltages using a single programming cable, reducing complexity and cost while ensuring accurate data transmission and device functionality.
Implementation Method 1
a diode in series with a capacitor. The diode is configured to generate the first input voltage signal by charging the capacitor to a voltage level that is substantially equal to the voltage level of the one or more digital signals
Data Source
AI summary
Systems for facilitating communication between a first and second device include a voltage level translator circuit configured to convert a voltage level of one or more digital signals that are transmitted from the first device to the second device to a voltage level substantially equal to a supply voltage level of the second device. The conversion is based on a first input voltage signal into the translator circuit. The systems further include a diode in series with a capacitor. The diode is configured to generate the first input voltage signal by charging the capacitor to a voltage level that is substantially equal to the voltage level of the one or more digital signals. Methods of facilitating communication between a first and second device include providing a voltage level translator circuit configured to convert a voltage level of one or more digital signals that are transmitted from the first device to the second device to a voltage level substantially equal to a supply voltage level of the second device. The conversion is based on a first input voltage signal into the translator circuit. The methods further include providing a circuit comprising a diode in series with a capacitor and generating the first input voltage signal by charging the capacitor to a voltage level that is substantially equal to the voltage level of the one or more digital signals.