Abstract:
A transformer circuit (10) for a piezoelectric transformer (12) having dual inputs which can piezoelectrically interfere with one another to provide adjustable output gain. The transformer circuit (10) provides two pulse-position-modulated input signals (18, 20) which are substantially identical waveforms, but being phase shifted from one another. When the signals (18, 20) constructively interfere maximum gain is achieved. When the two signals (18, 20) destructively interfere minimum gain is achieved. The waveforms may be of any arbitrary type including square, sine, triangle, sawtooth or irregular. Both input signals (18, 20) are at a resonant frequency of the piezoelectric transformer (12) and have a fifty percent duty cycle so as to always provide highest efficiency within the transformer (12). In addition, when the two input signals (18, 20) destructively interfere with each other piezoelectrically, the input impedance of the transformer (12) rises so as to lessen power dissipation within the transformer (12) which subsequently reduces adverse heating effects.
Abstract:
A piezoelectric transformer (10) operating in a thickness-shear vibration mode (26). The piezoelectric transformer (10) comprises a lithium niobate substrate (12) having first and second acoustically coupled portions (16, 22), and a plurality of substantially opposing pairs of primary and secondary electrodes (14, 20) disposed thereon. An input AC voltage applied to the primary electrode pairs (14) exciting a thickness-shear vibration (26) which couples to the secondary electrode pairs (20) producing an output AC voltage therebetween. The primary and secondary electrodes (14, 20) being electrically connected in various combinations of parallel and series connections to provide a desired step-up or step-down voltage transfer ratio.