CA2495486A1 - Apparatus and method for charging and discharging a capacitor to a predetermined setpoint - Google Patents
Apparatus and method for charging and discharging a capacitor to a predetermined setpoint Download PDFInfo
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- CA2495486A1 CA2495486A1 CA002495486A CA2495486A CA2495486A1 CA 2495486 A1 CA2495486 A1 CA 2495486A1 CA 002495486 A CA002495486 A CA 002495486A CA 2495486 A CA2495486 A CA 2495486A CA 2495486 A1 CA2495486 A1 CA 2495486A1
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- smart material
- material actuator
- discharging
- charging
- voltage
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- 238000007599 discharging Methods 0.000 title claims abstract description 28
- 238000000034 method Methods 0.000 title claims description 26
- 239000003990 capacitor Substances 0.000 title claims description 15
- 239000002520 smart material Substances 0.000 claims abstract description 50
- 230000004044 response Effects 0.000 claims description 16
- 239000011324 bead Substances 0.000 claims description 6
- 230000033228 biological regulation Effects 0.000 claims description 4
- 230000001629 suppression Effects 0.000 claims description 2
- 239000000463 material Substances 0.000 abstract description 5
- 230000004936 stimulating effect Effects 0.000 abstract description 2
- 238000006073 displacement reaction Methods 0.000 description 4
- 239000000919 ceramic Substances 0.000 description 2
- 238000012986 modification Methods 0.000 description 2
- 230000004048 modification Effects 0.000 description 2
- 230000010355 oscillation Effects 0.000 description 2
- OKTJSMMVPCPJKN-UHFFFAOYSA-N Carbon Chemical compound [C] OKTJSMMVPCPJKN-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 1
- 235000013361 beverage Nutrition 0.000 description 1
- 230000005540 biological transmission Effects 0.000 description 1
- 229910052799 carbon Inorganic materials 0.000 description 1
- 238000005516 engineering process Methods 0.000 description 1
- 230000005669 field effect Effects 0.000 description 1
- 239000010408 film Substances 0.000 description 1
- 238000004519 manufacturing process Methods 0.000 description 1
- 230000026280 response to electrical stimulus Effects 0.000 description 1
- 229910052715 tantalum Inorganic materials 0.000 description 1
- GUVRBAGPIYLISA-UHFFFAOYSA-N tantalum atom Chemical compound [Ta] GUVRBAGPIYLISA-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 1
- 239000010409 thin film Substances 0.000 description 1
- 238000004804 winding Methods 0.000 description 1
Classifications
-
- H—ELECTRICITY
- H02—GENERATION; CONVERSION OR DISTRIBUTION OF ELECTRIC POWER
- H02M—APPARATUS FOR CONVERSION BETWEEN AC AND AC, BETWEEN AC AND DC, OR BETWEEN DC AND DC, AND FOR USE WITH MAINS OR SIMILAR POWER SUPPLY SYSTEMS; CONVERSION OF DC OR AC INPUT POWER INTO SURGE OUTPUT POWER; CONTROL OR REGULATION THEREOF
- H02M3/00—Conversion of dc power input into dc power output
- H02M3/22—Conversion of dc power input into dc power output with intermediate conversion into ac
- H02M3/24—Conversion of dc power input into dc power output with intermediate conversion into ac by static converters
- H02M3/28—Conversion of dc power input into dc power output with intermediate conversion into ac by static converters using discharge tubes with control electrode or semiconductor devices with control electrode to produce the intermediate ac
- H02M3/325—Conversion of dc power input into dc power output with intermediate conversion into ac by static converters using discharge tubes with control electrode or semiconductor devices with control electrode to produce the intermediate ac using devices of a triode or a transistor type requiring continuous application of a control signal
- H02M3/335—Conversion of dc power input into dc power output with intermediate conversion into ac by static converters using discharge tubes with control electrode or semiconductor devices with control electrode to produce the intermediate ac using devices of a triode or a transistor type requiring continuous application of a control signal using semiconductor devices only
- H02M3/33569—Conversion of dc power input into dc power output with intermediate conversion into ac by static converters using discharge tubes with control electrode or semiconductor devices with control electrode to produce the intermediate ac using devices of a triode or a transistor type requiring continuous application of a control signal using semiconductor devices only having several active switching elements
- H02M3/33576—Conversion of dc power input into dc power output with intermediate conversion into ac by static converters using discharge tubes with control electrode or semiconductor devices with control electrode to produce the intermediate ac using devices of a triode or a transistor type requiring continuous application of a control signal using semiconductor devices only having several active switching elements having at least one active switching element at the secondary side of an isolation transformer
-
- H—ELECTRICITY
- H02—GENERATION; CONVERSION OR DISTRIBUTION OF ELECTRIC POWER
- H02M—APPARATUS FOR CONVERSION BETWEEN AC AND AC, BETWEEN AC AND DC, OR BETWEEN DC AND DC, AND FOR USE WITH MAINS OR SIMILAR POWER SUPPLY SYSTEMS; CONVERSION OF DC OR AC INPUT POWER INTO SURGE OUTPUT POWER; CONTROL OR REGULATION THEREOF
- H02M3/00—Conversion of dc power input into dc power output
- H02M3/22—Conversion of dc power input into dc power output with intermediate conversion into ac
- H02M3/24—Conversion of dc power input into dc power output with intermediate conversion into ac by static converters
- H02M3/28—Conversion of dc power input into dc power output with intermediate conversion into ac by static converters using discharge tubes with control electrode or semiconductor devices with control electrode to produce the intermediate ac
- H02M3/325—Conversion of dc power input into dc power output with intermediate conversion into ac by static converters using discharge tubes with control electrode or semiconductor devices with control electrode to produce the intermediate ac using devices of a triode or a transistor type requiring continuous application of a control signal
- H02M3/335—Conversion of dc power input into dc power output with intermediate conversion into ac by static converters using discharge tubes with control electrode or semiconductor devices with control electrode to produce the intermediate ac using devices of a triode or a transistor type requiring continuous application of a control signal using semiconductor devices only
- H02M3/33507—Conversion of dc power input into dc power output with intermediate conversion into ac by static converters using discharge tubes with control electrode or semiconductor devices with control electrode to produce the intermediate ac using devices of a triode or a transistor type requiring continuous application of a control signal using semiconductor devices only with automatic control of the output voltage or current, e.g. flyback converters
-
- H—ELECTRICITY
- H02—GENERATION; CONVERSION OR DISTRIBUTION OF ELECTRIC POWER
- H02M—APPARATUS FOR CONVERSION BETWEEN AC AND AC, BETWEEN AC AND DC, OR BETWEEN DC AND DC, AND FOR USE WITH MAINS OR SIMILAR POWER SUPPLY SYSTEMS; CONVERSION OF DC OR AC INPUT POWER INTO SURGE OUTPUT POWER; CONTROL OR REGULATION THEREOF
- H02M3/00—Conversion of dc power input into dc power output
- H02M3/22—Conversion of dc power input into dc power output with intermediate conversion into ac
- H02M3/24—Conversion of dc power input into dc power output with intermediate conversion into ac by static converters
- H02M3/28—Conversion of dc power input into dc power output with intermediate conversion into ac by static converters using discharge tubes with control electrode or semiconductor devices with control electrode to produce the intermediate ac
- H02M3/325—Conversion of dc power input into dc power output with intermediate conversion into ac by static converters using discharge tubes with control electrode or semiconductor devices with control electrode to produce the intermediate ac using devices of a triode or a transistor type requiring continuous application of a control signal
- H02M3/335—Conversion of dc power input into dc power output with intermediate conversion into ac by static converters using discharge tubes with control electrode or semiconductor devices with control electrode to produce the intermediate ac using devices of a triode or a transistor type requiring continuous application of a control signal using semiconductor devices only
- H02M3/3353—Conversion of dc power input into dc power output with intermediate conversion into ac by static converters using discharge tubes with control electrode or semiconductor devices with control electrode to produce the intermediate ac using devices of a triode or a transistor type requiring continuous application of a control signal using semiconductor devices only having at least two simultaneously operating switches on the input side, e.g. "double forward" or "double (switched) flyback" converter
-
- H—ELECTRICITY
- H02—GENERATION; CONVERSION OR DISTRIBUTION OF ELECTRIC POWER
- H02N—ELECTRIC MACHINES NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
- H02N2/00—Electric machines in general using piezoelectric effect, electrostriction or magnetostriction
- H02N2/0005—Electric machines in general using piezoelectric effect, electrostriction or magnetostriction producing non-specific motion; Details common to machines covered by H02N2/02 - H02N2/16
- H02N2/0075—Electrical details, e.g. drive or control circuits or methods
-
- H—ELECTRICITY
- H10—SEMICONDUCTOR DEVICES; ELECTRIC SOLID-STATE DEVICES NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
- H10N—ELECTRIC SOLID-STATE DEVICES NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
- H10N30/00—Piezoelectric or electrostrictive devices
- H10N30/80—Constructional details
- H10N30/802—Circuitry or processes for operating piezoelectric or electrostrictive devices not otherwise provided for, e.g. drive circuits
Landscapes
- Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
- Power Engineering (AREA)
- Dc-Dc Converters (AREA)
Abstract
An apparatus using electrically stimulated smart material requires a power source to stimulate the material. This power source has three main functions , (1) to apply a known voltage potential across the smart material, (2) to convert from the control voltage to a level suitable for the smart material, and (3) to regulate the voltage based on a control input. The power source i s a DC to DC converter with special properties achieved by supplying a variabl e stimulating voltage or actively discharging the actuator. The circuit also provides a dead band, or hysteresis, between the charge point and discharge point. When this circuit is applied with a proportional, mechanically leveraged smart material actuator, a general-purpose industrial actuator becomes a cost-effective solution.
Description
APPARATUS AND METHOD FOR CHARGING AND DISCHARGING
A CAPACITOR TO A PREDETERMINED SETPOINT
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001 ] This application is a continuation of U. S. Provisional Application No.
60/40f,468 filed on September 5, 2002 which is incorporated by reference herein.
This application is related to a continuation of U.S. Provisional Application No.
60/408,277 filed on September 5, 2002 for an Apparatus and Method for Charging and Discharging a Capacitor.
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
A CAPACITOR TO A PREDETERMINED SETPOINT
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001 ] This application is a continuation of U. S. Provisional Application No.
60/40f,468 filed on September 5, 2002 which is incorporated by reference herein.
This application is related to a continuation of U.S. Provisional Application No.
60/408,277 filed on September 5, 2002 for an Apparatus and Method for Charging and Discharging a Capacitor.
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[0002] The present invention relates to electronic methods and circuits for controlling proportional general purpose smart material based actuators.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0003] Actuator technologies are being developed for a wide range of applications. One example includes a mechanically leveraged smart material actuator that changes shape in response to electrical stimulus. This change in shape is proportional to the input voltage. Since this shape change can be effectuated predominantly along a single axis, such actuators can be used to perform work on associated mechanical systems including a lever in combination with some main support structure. Changes in axial displacement are magnified by the lever to create an actuator with a useful amount of force and displacement. Such force and displacement is useful for general-purpose industrial valves, clamps, beverage dispensers, compressors or pumps, brakes, door locks, electric relays, circuit breakers, and other applications actuated by means including solenoids, motors or motors combined with various transmission means. Smart materials, however, and piezoelectric materials specifically, can require hundreds of volts to actuate and cause displacement. This type of voltage may not be readily available and may have to be derived from a lower voltage as one would find with a battery.
[0004] Another characteristic of piezoelectric materials is that the materials are capacitive in nature. Moreover, a single actuator is often controlled using three separate signals: a control signal, a main supply and a ground.
SUN>NIARY OF THE INVENTION
SUN>NIARY OF THE INVENTION
[0005] An apparatus for charging and discharging a capacitor to predetermined setpoints includes a smart material actuator and a voltage controlled direct current (DC) to DC converter for operating the smart material actuator in a proportional manner. The voltage controlled DC to DC converter can further include a self oscillating drive circuit connected to a primary coil of a transformer with push-pull drive signals 180 degrees out of phase. The voltage controlled DC to DC
converter can also include an auxiliary coil on the transformer. An attached diode rectifier to generate a DC voltage from an AC signal of the secondary coil on the transformer can also be included with the DC to DC converter as well as a voltage feedback network for voltage regulation.
converter can also include an auxiliary coil on the transformer. An attached diode rectifier to generate a DC voltage from an AC signal of the secondary coil on the transformer can also be included with the DC to DC converter as well as a voltage feedback network for voltage regulation.
[0006] The voltage controlled DC to DC converter can further include control circuitry for stopping and starting the self oscillating mechanism and can also feature a diode on an input stage for reverse polarity protection. Moreover, the control circuitry can further include a bead inductor and bypass capacitor for suppression of radiated EMI into the power source of the system.
[0007] Another feature of the invention includes a smart material drive circuit for actively charging and discharging the smart material actuator in response to connecting and disconnecting a power source respectively. The drive circuit for actively controlling at least one of charging and discharging the smart material actuator can be responsive to a control signal.
[0008] Yet another embodiment of the invention for charging and discharging a capacitor to predetermined setpoints includes a smart material actuator, a power source connectable to the smart material actuator, and a switch circuit for actively discharging the smart material actuator in response to removal of the connection to the power source. The switch circuit for actively charging the smart material actuator can further be responsive to connecting the power source or a control signal input. The switch circuit can actively control at least one of charging and discharging the smart material actuator in response to a control signal and can further include a voltage comparator and field effect transistor (FET) to control the DC to DC converter. The switch can, according to the invention, have three operational modes, charge load, hold load and discharge load. Hence, the method for charging and discharging a capacitor to predetermined setpoints according to the present invention includes the steps of providing a smart material actuator and operating the smart material actuator in a proportional manner with a voltage controlled DC to DC converter. An alternative method for charging and discharging a capacitor to predetermined setpoints according to the invention includes the steps of providing a smart material actuator, connecting a power source to the smart material actuator, and actively discharging the smart material actuator in response to removal of the connection to the power source with a switch circuit.
[0009] With the use of electronic design and simulation software and electronic prototyping of the circuit, details for using a minimum number of components while maintaining a cost-effective, and low power solution are realized.
This electronic subsystem, when coupled to a mechanically leveraged smart material actuator, creates a commercially viable proportional actuator solution for general purposes and industrial applications.
This electronic subsystem, when coupled to a mechanically leveraged smart material actuator, creates a commercially viable proportional actuator solution for general purposes and industrial applications.
[0010] Other applications of the present invention will become apparent to those skilled in the art when the following description of the best mode contemplated for practicing the invention is read in conjunction with the accompanying drawings.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0011] The description herein makes reference to the accompanying drawings wherein like reference numerals refer to like parts throughout the several views, and wherein:
[0012] Fig. 1 is an electronic schematic of a voltage controlled DC to DC
converter with active regulation to which the present invention is applied;
converter with active regulation to which the present invention is applied;
[0013] Fig. 2 is an electronic schematic of a DC to DC converter of the present invention;
[0014] Fig. 3 is an electronic schematic of the electronic switch of the present invention illustrating current flow when the switch is closed;
[001 S] Fig. 4 is an electronic schematic of the electronic switch of the present invention illustrating current flow when the switch is open; and [0016] Fig. 5 is an electronic schematic of the control circuit of the present invention.
DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENT
[0017] Figure 1 shows an electronic schematic of a system 10 for controlling a proportional mechanically leveraged smart material actuator (not shown) including a specialized power source 12 coupled to switching circuitry 44 and control circuitry 64.
[0018] According to the preferred embodiment, the specialized power source of Figure 1 is a DC to DC converter, switching circuit, and control circuit operative either to supply a variable stimulating voltage or to actively discharge the actuator. As best shown in Figure 2, the DC to DC converter 12 ( 12 is missing from Fig 2.) includes a supply voltage 14 connected to a bead inductor 16 which feeds reverse protection diode 18. Bead inductor 16 acts as a filter to remove noise generated by the collector of negative positive negative (NPN) transistor 20 connected to the supply voltage 14. NPN transistor 20 and NPN transistor 22 form a push-pull driver for transformer 24. Resistors 26, 28, 30, and 32 form a resistive voltage divider and set the basic bias points for NPN transistors 20 and 22.
[0019] Transformer 24 is wound not only with a primary coil 24a and a secondary coil 24b, but an auxiliary coil 24c. Auxiliary winding 24c, transformer 24, resistors 34, 36, 28, and capacitors 38, 40 form feedback means to cause oscillation on the base of NPN transistors 20, 22. Oscillation is 180 degrees out of phase between the two NPN transistors 20, 22 forming a self oscillating push-pull transformer driver. The secondary coil 24b of transformer 24 is connected to rectifier 42. It should be noted that when the base of transistor 22 is grounded, the self oscillating mechanism is stopped. When the ground is removed, the self oscillating mechanism is restarted. As shown in Figure l, switch circuitry 44, when commanded, is capable of actively controlling the voltage to the capacitive load.
[0020] Control circuitry 64 monitors the control voltage and output voltage and makes the decision to turn on the DC to DC converter, or turn on the discharge switch, or hold the current voltage level at the capacitive load. Included in the system is means for forcing the capacitive load to ground should the supply voltage be removed.
[0021] Referring now to Figure 3, switching circuitry 44 is depicted isolated from the schematic of Figure I to better illustrate the operative features of the switching circuitry 44 when it is closed. When switch 48 is closed, current flows from a power source 50 through switch 48 through bead inductor 52 charging the capacitive load 54. Also, current flows into resistive divider network 56 driving the NPN transistor 58 on, which turns NPN Darlington pair 60 off. The rate of charge is determined by the impedance of the power source and the capacitance of the load 54.
Resistor 62 and NPN transistor 58 serve as a level translator between the switched power and control signal, so the switched power and control signal do not have to have the same voltage levels.
[0022] Referring now to Figure 4, the current flow in switching circuitry 44 is shown when switch 48 is open. When switch 48 is open, no current flows from the power source 50. Also, current flows into resistive divider network 56 through switch 48 to ground, driving the NPN transistor 58 off, which turns NPN
Darlington pair 60 on causing current flow through resistor 46 discharging capacitive load 54.
The rate of discharge is determined by the value of resistor 46 and capacitive load 54.
Resistor 62 and NPN transistor 58 serve as a level translator between the switched power and control signal so the switched power and control signal do not have to have the same voltage levels.
[0023] Referring now to Figure 5, the control circuit 64 of Figure 1 is shown isolated to better illustrate the operative features of the circuit 64. Analog control voltage flows through resistor 66 and is clamped by Zener diode 68 at a preset voltage so as not to damage the input of operational amplifier 70. Further, resistor 66 is part of resistive dividing network 72. The network 72 derives two voltages;
one voltage is the reference to shut the DC to DC converter 12 down, the other, a reference to actively discharge the capacitive load. Operational amplifier 70 is used in a voltage comparator mode that is associated with the DC to DC converter 12 shutdown mode. Operational amplifier 74 is used in a voltage comparator mode and is associated with the active discharge mode. Resistors 76, 78, 80 form a second resistive voltage divider network. This network monitors the capacitive load voltage and derives the voltages that operational amplifiers 70, 74 compare to the reference voltages derived from resistors 66, 72. When the voltage at the plus terminal of operational amplifier 70 is greater than the minus, the output of the amplifier goes to the plus saturation state turning FET transistor 82 on causing the DC to DC
converter to stop.
[0024] When the voltage at the minus terminal of operational amplifier 70 is greater than the plus, the output of the amplifier goes to the minus saturation state turning FET transistor 82 off causing the DC to DC converter to run. When the voltage at the plus terminal of operational amplifier 74 is greater than the minus the output of the amplifier goes to the plus saturation state turning FET
transistor 84 on causing the active discharge of capacitive load. When the voltage at the minus terminal of operational amplifier 74 is greater than the plus, the output of the amplifier goes to the minus saturation state turning FET transistor 84 off. In this system there are three distinct states, (I) DC to DC converter on and capacitive load discharge switch open, (2) DC to DC converter off and capacitive load discharge switch open, and (3) DC to DC converter ofd and capacitive load discharge switch on.
[0025] In the embodiment illustrated in Figures 1, 2, 3, 4, and 5, the components have been chosen for their current carrying ability, voltage rating, and type. Other suitable components can include FET small signal, and power transistors, wire wound, thin film, and carbon comp resistors, ceramic, tantalum, and film capacitors, wound, and Low Temperature cofired ceramic (LTCC) transformers, or any combination of suitable components commonly used for high volume production. Although these materials given as examples provide excellent performance, depending on the requirements of an application, use of other combinations of components can be appropriate. Likewise, the embodiment illustrates components that are commercially available.
[0026] While the invention has been described in conjunction with what is presently considered to be the most practical and preferred embodiment, it is to be understood that the invention is not to be limited to the disclosed embodiment but, on the contrary, it is intended to cover various modifications and equivalent arrangements included within the spirit and scope of the appended claims, which scope is to be accorded the broadest interpretation so as to encompass all such modifications and equivalent structures as permitted under law.
[001 S] Fig. 4 is an electronic schematic of the electronic switch of the present invention illustrating current flow when the switch is open; and [0016] Fig. 5 is an electronic schematic of the control circuit of the present invention.
DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENT
[0017] Figure 1 shows an electronic schematic of a system 10 for controlling a proportional mechanically leveraged smart material actuator (not shown) including a specialized power source 12 coupled to switching circuitry 44 and control circuitry 64.
[0018] According to the preferred embodiment, the specialized power source of Figure 1 is a DC to DC converter, switching circuit, and control circuit operative either to supply a variable stimulating voltage or to actively discharge the actuator. As best shown in Figure 2, the DC to DC converter 12 ( 12 is missing from Fig 2.) includes a supply voltage 14 connected to a bead inductor 16 which feeds reverse protection diode 18. Bead inductor 16 acts as a filter to remove noise generated by the collector of negative positive negative (NPN) transistor 20 connected to the supply voltage 14. NPN transistor 20 and NPN transistor 22 form a push-pull driver for transformer 24. Resistors 26, 28, 30, and 32 form a resistive voltage divider and set the basic bias points for NPN transistors 20 and 22.
[0019] Transformer 24 is wound not only with a primary coil 24a and a secondary coil 24b, but an auxiliary coil 24c. Auxiliary winding 24c, transformer 24, resistors 34, 36, 28, and capacitors 38, 40 form feedback means to cause oscillation on the base of NPN transistors 20, 22. Oscillation is 180 degrees out of phase between the two NPN transistors 20, 22 forming a self oscillating push-pull transformer driver. The secondary coil 24b of transformer 24 is connected to rectifier 42. It should be noted that when the base of transistor 22 is grounded, the self oscillating mechanism is stopped. When the ground is removed, the self oscillating mechanism is restarted. As shown in Figure l, switch circuitry 44, when commanded, is capable of actively controlling the voltage to the capacitive load.
[0020] Control circuitry 64 monitors the control voltage and output voltage and makes the decision to turn on the DC to DC converter, or turn on the discharge switch, or hold the current voltage level at the capacitive load. Included in the system is means for forcing the capacitive load to ground should the supply voltage be removed.
[0021] Referring now to Figure 3, switching circuitry 44 is depicted isolated from the schematic of Figure I to better illustrate the operative features of the switching circuitry 44 when it is closed. When switch 48 is closed, current flows from a power source 50 through switch 48 through bead inductor 52 charging the capacitive load 54. Also, current flows into resistive divider network 56 driving the NPN transistor 58 on, which turns NPN Darlington pair 60 off. The rate of charge is determined by the impedance of the power source and the capacitance of the load 54.
Resistor 62 and NPN transistor 58 serve as a level translator between the switched power and control signal, so the switched power and control signal do not have to have the same voltage levels.
[0022] Referring now to Figure 4, the current flow in switching circuitry 44 is shown when switch 48 is open. When switch 48 is open, no current flows from the power source 50. Also, current flows into resistive divider network 56 through switch 48 to ground, driving the NPN transistor 58 off, which turns NPN
Darlington pair 60 on causing current flow through resistor 46 discharging capacitive load 54.
The rate of discharge is determined by the value of resistor 46 and capacitive load 54.
Resistor 62 and NPN transistor 58 serve as a level translator between the switched power and control signal so the switched power and control signal do not have to have the same voltage levels.
[0023] Referring now to Figure 5, the control circuit 64 of Figure 1 is shown isolated to better illustrate the operative features of the circuit 64. Analog control voltage flows through resistor 66 and is clamped by Zener diode 68 at a preset voltage so as not to damage the input of operational amplifier 70. Further, resistor 66 is part of resistive dividing network 72. The network 72 derives two voltages;
one voltage is the reference to shut the DC to DC converter 12 down, the other, a reference to actively discharge the capacitive load. Operational amplifier 70 is used in a voltage comparator mode that is associated with the DC to DC converter 12 shutdown mode. Operational amplifier 74 is used in a voltage comparator mode and is associated with the active discharge mode. Resistors 76, 78, 80 form a second resistive voltage divider network. This network monitors the capacitive load voltage and derives the voltages that operational amplifiers 70, 74 compare to the reference voltages derived from resistors 66, 72. When the voltage at the plus terminal of operational amplifier 70 is greater than the minus, the output of the amplifier goes to the plus saturation state turning FET transistor 82 on causing the DC to DC
converter to stop.
[0024] When the voltage at the minus terminal of operational amplifier 70 is greater than the plus, the output of the amplifier goes to the minus saturation state turning FET transistor 82 off causing the DC to DC converter to run. When the voltage at the plus terminal of operational amplifier 74 is greater than the minus the output of the amplifier goes to the plus saturation state turning FET
transistor 84 on causing the active discharge of capacitive load. When the voltage at the minus terminal of operational amplifier 74 is greater than the plus, the output of the amplifier goes to the minus saturation state turning FET transistor 84 off. In this system there are three distinct states, (I) DC to DC converter on and capacitive load discharge switch open, (2) DC to DC converter off and capacitive load discharge switch open, and (3) DC to DC converter ofd and capacitive load discharge switch on.
[0025] In the embodiment illustrated in Figures 1, 2, 3, 4, and 5, the components have been chosen for their current carrying ability, voltage rating, and type. Other suitable components can include FET small signal, and power transistors, wire wound, thin film, and carbon comp resistors, ceramic, tantalum, and film capacitors, wound, and Low Temperature cofired ceramic (LTCC) transformers, or any combination of suitable components commonly used for high volume production. Although these materials given as examples provide excellent performance, depending on the requirements of an application, use of other combinations of components can be appropriate. Likewise, the embodiment illustrates components that are commercially available.
[0026] While the invention has been described in conjunction with what is presently considered to be the most practical and preferred embodiment, it is to be understood that the invention is not to be limited to the disclosed embodiment but, on the contrary, it is intended to cover various modifications and equivalent arrangements included within the spirit and scope of the appended claims, which scope is to be accorded the broadest interpretation so as to encompass all such modifications and equivalent structures as permitted under law.
Claims (42)
1. An apparatus for charging and discharging a capacitive load to predetermined setpoints comprising:
a smart material actuator; and a voltage controlled DC to DC converter for operating the smart material actuator in a proportional manner.
a smart material actuator; and a voltage controlled DC to DC converter for operating the smart material actuator in a proportional manner.
2. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the voltage controlled DC to DC
converter further comprises a self-oscillating drive circuit connected to a primary coil of a transformer with drive signals 180 degrees out of phase.
converter further comprises a self-oscillating drive circuit connected to a primary coil of a transformer with drive signals 180 degrees out of phase.
3. The apparatus of claim 2, wherein the voltage controlled DC to DC
converter further comprises an auxiliary coil on the transformer.
converter further comprises an auxiliary coil on the transformer.
4. The apparatus of claim 2, wherein the voltage controlled DC to DC
converter further comprises a secondary coil on the transformer.
converter further comprises a secondary coil on the transformer.
5. The apparatus of claim 4, wherein the voltage controlled DC to DC
converter further comprises an attached diode rectifier to generate a DC
voltage from an AC signal of the secondary coil on the transformer.
converter further comprises an attached diode rectifier to generate a DC
voltage from an AC signal of the secondary coil on the transformer.
6. The apparatus of claim 2, wherein the voltage controlled DC to DC
converter further comprises a voltage feedback network for voltage regulation.
converter further comprises a voltage feedback network for voltage regulation.
7. The apparatus of claim 2, wherein the voltage controlled DC to DC
converter further comprises 2 NPN transistors defining a push-pull transformer driver.
converter further comprises 2 NPN transistors defining a push-pull transformer driver.
8. The apparatus of claim 2, wherein the voltage controlled DC to DC
converter further comprises control circuitry for stopping and starting the self-oscillating mechanism.
converter further comprises control circuitry for stopping and starting the self-oscillating mechanism.
9. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the voltage controlled DC to DC
converter further comprises a diode on an input stage for reverse polarity protection.
converter further comprises a diode on an input stage for reverse polarity protection.
10. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the converter further comprises both a bead inductor and a bypass capacitor for suppression of radiated EMI
into a power source.
into a power source.
11. The apparatus of claim 1 further comprising a smart material drive circuit for actively charging and discharging the smart material actuator in response to connecting and disconnecting a power source respectively.
12. The apparatus of claim 1 further comprising a smart material drive circuit for actively controlling at least one of charging and discharging the smart material actuator in response to a control signal.
13. The apparatus of claim 2, wherein the transformer is of wound core design.
14. The apparatus of claim 2, wherein the transformer is of LTCC
design.
design.
15. An apparatus for charging and discharging a capacitor to predetermined setpoints comprising:
a smart material actuator;
a power source connectible to the smart material actuator; and a switch circuit for actively discharging the smart material actuator in response to removal of the connection to the power source.
a smart material actuator;
a power source connectible to the smart material actuator; and a switch circuit for actively discharging the smart material actuator in response to removal of the connection to the power source.
16. The apparatus of claim 15 further comprising the switch circuit for actively charging the smart material actuator in response to connecting the power source.
17. The apparatus of claim 15 further comprising the switch circuit for actively controlling charging and discharging the smart material actuator in response to a control signal input.
18. The apparatus of claim 15 further comprising the switch circuit for actively controlling at least one of charging and discharging the smart material actuator in response to a control signal.
19. The apparatus of claim 15, wherein the switch further comprises a voltage comparator and FET transistor to control a DC to DC converter.
20. The apparatus of claim 19, wherein the switch has three operational modes, charge load, hold load and discharge load.
21. The apparatus of claim 15, wherein the switch further comprises a voltage comparator and FET transistor to control an active discharge of the smart material actuator.
22. The apparatus of claim 21, wherein the switch has three operational modes, charge load, hold load and discharge load.
23. A method for charging and discharging a capacitor to predetermined setpoints comprising the steps of:
providing a smart material actuator; and operating the smart material actuator in a proportional manner with a voltage controlled DC to DC converter.
providing a smart material actuator; and operating the smart material actuator in a proportional manner with a voltage controlled DC to DC converter.
24. The method of claim 23 further comprising the step of connecting a self oscillating drive circuit to a primary coil of a transformer with drive signals 180 degrees out of phase.
25. The method of claim 24 further comprising the step of providing an auxiliary coil on the transformer.
26. The method of claim 24 further comprising the step of providing a secondary coil on the transformer.
27. The method of claim 26 further comprising the step of attaching a diode rectifier to generate a DC voltage from an AC signal of the secondary coil on the transformer.
28. The method of claim 24 further comprising the step of feeding back a voltage signal for voltage regulation.
29. The method of claim 24 further comprising the step of providing two NPN transistors defining a push-pull transformer driver.
30. The method of claim 24 further comprising the step of stopping and starting the self oscillating mechanism with control circuitry.
31. The method of claim 23 further comprising the step of providing a diode on an input stage for reverse polarity protection.
32. The method of claim 23 further comprising the step of suppressing radiated EMI into a power source with both a bead inductor and bypass capacitor.
33. The method of claim 23 further comprising the step of actively charging and discharging the smart material actuator in response to connecting and disconnecting a power source respectively with a smart material drive circuit.
34. The method of claim 23 further comprising the step of actively controlling at least one of charging and discharging the smart material actuator in response to a control signal with a smart material drive circuit.
35. A method for charging and discharging a capacitor to predetermined setpoints comprising the steps of:
providing a smart material actuator;
connecting a power source to the smart material actuator; and actively discharging the smart material actuator in response to removal of the connection to the power source with a switch circuit.
providing a smart material actuator;
connecting a power source to the smart material actuator; and actively discharging the smart material actuator in response to removal of the connection to the power source with a switch circuit.
36. The method of claim 35 further comprising the step of actively charging the smart material actuator in response to connecting the power source with the switch circuit.
37. The method of claim 35 further comprising the step of actively controlling charging and discharging the smart material actuator in response to a control signal input with the switch circuit.
38. The method of claim 35 further comprising the step of actively controlling at least one of charging and discharging the smart material actuator in response to a control signal with the switch circuit.
39. The method of claim 35 further comprising the step of controlling a DC to DC converter with a voltage comparator and FET transistor.
40. The method of claim 39, wherein the switch has three operational modes, charge load, hold load and discharge load.
41. The method of claim 35 further comprising the step of controlling an active discharge of the smart material actuator with the switch.
42. The method of claim 41, wherein the switch has three operational modes, charge load, hold load and discharge load.
Applications Claiming Priority (3)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
US40846802P | 2002-09-05 | 2002-09-05 | |
US60/408,468 | 2002-09-05 | ||
PCT/US2003/023751 WO2004023636A1 (en) | 2002-09-05 | 2003-07-30 | Apparatus and method for charging and discharging a capacitor to a predetermined setpoint |
Publications (2)
Publication Number | Publication Date |
---|---|
CA2495486A1 true CA2495486A1 (en) | 2004-03-18 |
CA2495486C CA2495486C (en) | 2013-07-16 |
Family
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Family Applications (1)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
CA2495486A Expired - Lifetime CA2495486C (en) | 2002-09-05 | 2003-07-30 | Apparatus and method for charging and discharging a capacitor to a predetermined setpoint |
Country Status (6)
Country | Link |
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EP (1) | EP1547233A1 (en) |
JP (1) | JP4421479B2 (en) |
CN (1) | CN1701499A (en) |
AU (1) | AU2003257010A1 (en) |
CA (1) | CA2495486C (en) |
WO (1) | WO2004023636A1 (en) |
Family Cites Families (10)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US3947747A (en) * | 1975-02-19 | 1976-03-30 | Pylon Electronic Development Company Ltd. | Regulated transistorized DC to DC converter and parallel operation of plurality of converters |
JPH04507481A (en) * | 1990-05-08 | 1992-12-24 | キャタピラー インコーポレイテッド | Piezoelectric actuator drive device |
JPH0662585A (en) * | 1992-08-04 | 1994-03-04 | Fujitsu Ltd | Piezoelectric device control circuit |
JP2758552B2 (en) * | 1993-08-27 | 1998-05-28 | 浜松ホトニクス株式会社 | Push-pull resonant switching power supply circuit |
DE19733560B4 (en) * | 1997-08-02 | 2007-04-05 | Robert Bosch Gmbh | Method and device for charging and discharging a piezoelectric element |
US5895998A (en) * | 1997-09-18 | 1999-04-20 | Raytheon Company | Piezoelectric drive circuit |
FR2796219B1 (en) * | 1999-07-09 | 2001-09-21 | Renault | DEVICE AND METHOD FOR CONTROLLING A PIEZOELECTRIC ACTUATOR |
DE19944733B4 (en) * | 1999-09-17 | 2007-01-04 | Siemens Ag | Device for controlling at least one capacitive actuator |
EP1139448B1 (en) * | 2000-04-01 | 2009-10-21 | Robert Bosch GmbH | Method and apparatus for regulating voltages and voltage gradients for driving piezoelectric elements |
FR2813455B1 (en) * | 2000-08-25 | 2003-07-25 | Renault | DEVICE FOR CONTROLLING A PIEZOELECTRIC CERAMIC, IN PARTICULAR FOR AN INJECTOR ACTUATOR OF AN INTERNAL COMBUSTION ENGINE |
-
2003
- 2003-07-30 WO PCT/US2003/023751 patent/WO2004023636A1/en active Application Filing
- 2003-07-30 AU AU2003257010A patent/AU2003257010A1/en not_active Abandoned
- 2003-07-30 CA CA2495486A patent/CA2495486C/en not_active Expired - Lifetime
- 2003-07-30 CN CN03820972.1A patent/CN1701499A/en active Pending
- 2003-07-30 JP JP2004534255A patent/JP4421479B2/en not_active Expired - Fee Related
- 2003-07-30 EP EP03794449A patent/EP1547233A1/en not_active Withdrawn
Also Published As
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JP2006512034A (en) | 2006-04-06 |
AU2003257010A1 (en) | 2004-03-29 |
WO2004023636A1 (en) | 2004-03-18 |
CA2495486C (en) | 2013-07-16 |
EP1547233A1 (en) | 2005-06-29 |
JP4421479B2 (en) | 2010-02-24 |
CN1701499A (en) | 2005-11-23 |
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