Soft start circuit

Abstract

The present disclosure relates to a soft start circuit. The soft start circuit comprises a first port, a second port, a switch sub-circuit, a control sub-circuit and a clamping sub-circuit. The switch sub-circuit is electrically connected with the first port and the second port of the soft start circuit; the input end of the control sub-circuit is electrically connected with the first port, and the output end of the control sub-circuit is electrically connected with the switch sub-circuit; the clamping sub-circuit is electrically connected with the first port and the input end of the control sub-circuit. The control sub-circuit is used for outputting a control signal after being powered on at the input end for a preset time; the switch sub-circuit is used for controlling the first port and the second port to be conductive in response to the control signal; and the clamping sub-circuit is used for clamping the voltage at the input end of the control sub-circuit to a preset voltage range. After the input end of the control sub-circuit is powered on, the switch sub-circuit is conductive for a preset time, so as to realize the delay output of the second port and avoid the influence of the transient fluctuation of voltage / current on the stability of the power supply loop during the power-on process.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to the field of electrical control technology, and in particular to a soft-start circuit. Background Technology

[0002] In related technologies, electrical devices can be connected to a power source via an adapter or power board. The adapter / power board converts the power supply voltage into the operating voltage required by the electrical device to supply power to the device.

[0003] Electrical components and adapters / power boards can be designed as separate units, allowing for independent production, testing, and transportation, thus facilitating manufacturing and shipping. Electrical connections between the components and adapters / power boards can be achieved via connectors (such as mechanical terminals), enabling a single adapter / power board specification to be compatible with various types of electrical components. This improves product versatility and standardization, and reduces the complexity of material management.

[0004] However, during hot-plugging, the mechanical contacts of the two connectors may bounce at the moment of contact (multiple rapid switching between the mechanical contacts of the two connectors), which can cause instantaneous fluctuations in the power supply voltage and lead to instability in the power supply circuit. Utility Model Content

[0005] In order to solve the above-mentioned technical problems, or at least partially solve the above-mentioned technical problems, this disclosure provides a soft-start circuit for avoiding instantaneous voltage fluctuations during the power-on process of electrical devices.

[0006] In a first aspect, this disclosure provides a soft-start circuit. The soft-start circuit includes: a first port, a second port, a switching sub-circuit, a control sub-circuit, and a clamping sub-circuit. The first port is used to receive a power supply voltage, and the second port is used to output a power supply voltage.

[0007] The switching subcircuit is electrically connected to both the first and second ports. The input terminal of the control subcircuit is electrically connected to the first port, and the output terminal of the control subcircuit is electrically connected to the switching subcircuit. The clamping subcircuit is electrically connected to both the first port and the input terminal of the control subcircuit.

[0008] The control subcircuit is used to output a control signal after a preset delay following power-on at its input terminal. The switching subcircuit is used to control the first port and the second port to conduct in response to the control signal. The clamping subcircuit is used to clamp the voltage at the input terminal of the control subcircuit to a preset voltage range.

[0009] The technical solutions provided in this disclosure have the following beneficial technical effects compared with the prior art:

[0010] The delayed output of the soft-start circuit after power-on is achieved through the coordinated operation of the control sub-circuit and the switching sub-circuit. In this way, even if there is a brief period of power supply voltage instability during the power-on process of the electrical components, the delayed output at the second port can effectively avoid the impact of instantaneous voltage fluctuations on the stability of the power supply circuit, ensuring electrical safety and improving circuit reliability.

[0011] At the same time, by setting up a clamping sub-circuit, it is possible to ensure that the voltage supplied to the control sub-circuit is within the operating voltage range of the control sub-circuit, thereby avoiding the impact of power supply voltage fluctuations on the control sub-circuit, ensuring electrical safety, and improving circuit reliability.

[0012] In some embodiments, both the first port and the second port include a positive terminal and a negative terminal. The switching sub-circuit is electrically connected to the positive terminal of the first port and the positive terminal of the second port; or, the switching sub-circuit is electrically connected to the negative terminal of the first port and the negative terminal of the second port.

[0013] In some embodiments, the soft-start circuit further includes a voltage divider circuit, which is electrically connected to the positive terminal of the first port, the negative terminal of the first port, and the input terminal of the control sub-circuit.

[0014] The voltage divider circuit converts the power supply voltage from the first port into a drive voltage and outputs the drive voltage. The drive voltage is less than the power supply voltage. The control circuit outputs a control signal in response to a preset time delay after the drive voltage is applied.

[0015] In some embodiments, the voltage divider circuit includes a first resistor and a second resistor. A first terminal of the first resistor is electrically connected to the positive terminal of the first port, a second terminal of the first resistor is electrically connected to the first terminal of the second resistor, and a second terminal of the second resistor is electrically connected to the negative terminal of the first port. The common terminal of the first resistor and the second resistor serves as the third terminal of the voltage divider circuit.

[0016] In some embodiments, the switching sub-circuit includes: a first switching element; the control electrode of the first switching element is electrically connected to the control sub-circuit, the first electrode of the first switching element is electrically connected to the negative terminal of the first port, and the second electrode of the first switching element is electrically connected to the negative terminal of the second port.

[0017] The control sub-circuit includes: a delay output chip, the power supply pin of the delay output chip is electrically connected to the third terminal of the voltage divider sub-circuit, the output pin of the delay output chip is electrically connected to the control electrode of the first switching element, and the ground pin of the delay output chip is electrically connected to the negative terminal of the first port.

[0018] In some embodiments, the control sub-circuit further includes a third resistor, the first end of which is electrically connected to the output pin of the delay output chip, and the second end of which is electrically connected to the control electrode of the first switching element when the switching sub-circuit is electrically connected to the negative terminal of the first port and the negative terminal of the second port.

[0019] In some embodiments, the switching sub-circuit includes: a first switching element; the control electrode of the first switching element is electrically connected to the control sub-circuit, the first electrode of the first switching element is electrically connected to the positive terminal of the first port, and the second electrode of the first switching element is electrically connected to the positive terminal of the second port.

[0020] The control sub-circuit includes: a delay output chip, a second switching element, and a fourth resistor. The first terminal of the fourth resistor is electrically connected to the positive terminal of the first port, and the second terminal of the fourth resistor is electrically connected to the control electrode of the first switching element. The first electrode of the second switching element is electrically connected to the control electrode of the first switching element, and the second electrode of the second switching element is electrically connected to the negative terminal of the first port.

[0021] The power supply pin of the delay output chip is electrically connected to the third terminal of the voltage divider circuit, the output pin of the delay output chip is electrically connected to the control electrode of the second switching element, and the ground pin of the delay output chip is electrically connected to the negative terminal of the first port.

[0022] In some embodiments, the control sub-circuit further includes a third resistor, the first end of which is electrically connected to the output pin of the delay output chip, and the second end of which is electrically connected to the control electrode of the second switching element when the switching sub-circuit is electrically connected to the positive terminal of the first port and the positive terminal of the second port.

[0023] In some embodiments, the clamping sub-circuit includes: a Zener diode, the first terminal of which is electrically connected to the input terminal of the control sub-circuit, and the second terminal of which is electrically connected to the negative terminal of the first port.

[0024] In some embodiments, the soft-start circuit further includes a voltage regulator circuit, wherein a first terminal of the voltage regulator circuit is electrically connected to the positive terminal of the second port, and a second terminal of the voltage regulator circuit is electrically connected to the negative terminal of the second port. The voltage regulator circuit is used to maintain the stability of the output voltage of the second port.

[0025] In some embodiments, the voltage regulator circuit includes: a first capacitor, and / or, a second capacitor.

[0026] The first capacitor is a polarized capacitor. The positive terminal of the first capacitor is electrically connected to the positive terminal of the second port, and the negative terminal of the first capacitor is electrically connected to the negative terminal of the second port.

[0027] The second capacitor is a non-polar capacitor. The first plate of the second capacitor is electrically connected to the positive terminal of the second port, and the second plate of the second capacitor is electrically connected to the negative terminal of the second port.

[0028] Secondly, this disclosure also provides a power-on protection device. The power-on protection device includes a soft-start circuit as provided in some of the above embodiments.

[0029] The power-on protection device described above has the same structure and beneficial technical effects as the soft-start circuit provided in some of the above embodiments, and will not be described again here.

[0030] Thirdly, this disclosure also provides a lighting device. The lighting device includes: a luminaire, and a soft-start circuit as provided in some of the above embodiments. A second port of the soft-start circuit is electrically connected to the luminaire.

[0031] The lighting device described above has the same structure and beneficial technical effects as the soft-start circuit provided in some of the above embodiments, and will not be described again here.

[0032] Fourthly, this disclosure also provides a lighting system. The lighting system includes a lighting device and a power-on protection device. The power-on protection device includes a soft-start circuit as provided in some of the above embodiments, the second port of which is electrically connected to the lighting device.

[0033] The lighting system described above has the same structure and beneficial technical effects as the soft-start circuit provided in some of the above embodiments, and will not be described again here.

[0034] Fifthly, this disclosure also provides a lighting system. The lighting system includes: a lighting device, the lighting device comprising: a luminaire, and a soft-start circuit as provided in some of the above embodiments. A second port of the soft-start circuit is electrically connected to the luminaire.

[0035] The lighting system described above has the same structure and beneficial technical effects as the soft-start circuit provided in some of the above embodiments, and will not be described again here. Attached Figure Description

[0036] The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and form a part of this specification, illustrate embodiments consistent with this disclosure and, together with the description, serve to explain the principles of this disclosure.

[0037] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions in the embodiments of this disclosure or the prior art, the accompanying drawings used in the description of the embodiments or the prior art will be briefly introduced below. Obviously, for those skilled in the art, other drawings can be obtained based on these drawings without creative effort.

[0038] Figure 1This is a structural block diagram of the soft-start circuit described in an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0039] Figure 2 This is another structural block diagram of the soft-start circuit described in the embodiments of this disclosure;

[0040] Figure 3 This is another structural block diagram of the soft-start circuit described in the embodiments of this disclosure;

[0041] Figure 4 This is another structural block diagram of the soft-start circuit described in the embodiments of this disclosure;

[0042] Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of a circuit structure of the soft-start circuit described in an embodiment of this disclosure;

[0043] Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram of another circuit structure of the soft-start circuit described in the embodiments of this disclosure;

[0044] Figure 7 This is a schematic diagram of another circuit structure of the soft-start circuit described in the embodiments of this disclosure;

[0045] Figure 8 This is a schematic diagram of another circuit structure of the soft-start circuit described in the embodiments of this disclosure;

[0046] Figure 9 This is a structural block diagram of the power-on protection device described in an embodiment of this disclosure;

[0047] Figure 10 This is a structural block diagram of a lighting device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0048] Among them, 10. Soft start circuit;

[0049] 1. Switching sub-circuit; 11. First switching sub-circuit; 12. Second switching sub-circuit; Q1. First switching element; Q3. Third switching element; Q4. Fourth switching element;

[0050] 2. Control sub-circuit; Q2, second switching element; R3, third resistor; R4, fourth resistor;

[0051] 3. Clamping circuit; D1, Zener diode;

[0052] 4. Voltage divider circuit; R1, first resistor; R2, second resistor;

[0053] 5. Voltage regulator circuit; C1, first capacitor; C2, second capacitor. Detailed Implementation

[0054] To better understand the above-mentioned objectives, features, and advantages of this disclosure, the solutions disclosed herein will be further described below. It should be noted that, unless otherwise specified, the embodiments and features described herein can be combined with each other.

[0055] Numerous specific details are set forth in the following description in order to provide a full understanding of this disclosure, but this disclosure may also be implemented in other ways different from those described herein; obviously, the embodiments in the specification are only some, and not all, of the embodiments of this disclosure.

[0056] In products with modular design, the same functional module can be adapted to multiple products of different specifications, which helps to improve the universality and standardization of each functional module in the product. Furthermore, when a functional module in the product is faulty or damaged, the functional module can be removed separately for inspection or replacement, which reduces the difficulty of product maintenance compared to products with integrated design.

[0057] Meanwhile, products with modular designs allow for the separate production and transportation of different functional modules, offering greater flexibility in transportation and installation compared to products with integrated designs. Furthermore, modular designs allow for adjustments or upgrades to specific functions simply by modifying or adding new functional modules, shortening development cycles and enabling rapid product iteration.

[0058] In products with a modular design, the functional modules can be interconnected via connectors (such as plugs or mechanical terminals). For example, electrical components in the product can be connected to a power source via an adapter or power board, and these components and the adapter / power board can be manufactured and transported separately as different functional modules.

[0059] The connection between electrical components and the adapter / power board can be via mechanical terminals. During hot-swapping, the instantaneous elastic deformation or minute vibration of the contacts during physical contact can cause multiple rapid switching on and off of the mechanical terminals (i.e., mechanical contact bounce). This high-frequency switching can cause instantaneous fluctuations in the power supply voltage, resulting in power instability. Simultaneously, the high contact resistance when the two mechanical terminals are not fully in contact leads to a voltage drop, while the sudden drop in resistance after full contact causes a sudden change in current, generating inrush current.

[0060] The above problems can all cause abnormal circuit operation and easily lead to load failure or even damage. In order to solve the above problems, this disclosure provides a soft-start circuit 10.

[0061] Figure 1 This is a structural block diagram of the soft-start circuit 10 described in an embodiment of this disclosure.

[0062] In some embodiments, such as Figure 1 As shown, the soft-start circuit 10 includes: a first port, a second port, a switching sub-circuit 1, and a control sub-circuit 2. The first port is used to receive power supply voltage, the second port is used to output power supply voltage, and the switching sub-circuit 1 is electrically connected to both the first port and the second port. The switching sub-circuit 1 is used to control the on / off state between the first port and the second port.

[0063] The input terminal of control subcircuit 2 is electrically connected to the first port, and the output terminal of control subcircuit 2 is electrically connected to the switch subcircuit 1. Control subcircuit 2 outputs a control signal after a preset time t following power-on of its input terminal. Switch subcircuit 1 controls the first port and the second port to conduct in response to the control signal.

[0064] The first port of the soft-start circuit 10 in this embodiment is used to be electrically connected to a power source, which includes, but is not limited to, an AC power interface or an energy storage power source.

[0065] For example, the first port of the soft-start circuit 10 may be directly connected to the power supply; or, the first port of the soft-start circuit 10 may be connected to the power supply through other functional circuits (such as at least one of the functional circuits such as input filter circuit, surge protection circuit, rectifier circuit, input overvoltage / undervoltage protection circuit, input reverse connection protection circuit, and current limiting circuit).

[0066] The second port of the soft-start circuit 10 in this embodiment is used for electrical connection with a load. The "load" mentioned here includes, but is not limited to, electrical devices such as gateways and lighting devices.

[0067] In this embodiment, after the input terminal of the control sub-circuit 2 is powered on, the output terminal of the control sub-circuit 2 will output a control signal after a preset time t to control the switching sub-circuit 1 to be turned on. The power supply and the load are turned on by turning on the first port and the second port of the soft start circuit 10.

[0068] In this way, by controlling the delay output time of sub-circuit 2, the power-on time of the power supply voltage applied to the load can be delayed, thereby reducing the inrush current and avoiding power supply voltage fluctuations and arcing during hot-plugging, effectively avoiding electronic device failures or even damage caused by unstable power supply.

[0069] In some embodiments, the control sub-circuit 2 may include a delay output chip, which enables the delayed output of the control sub-circuit 2 after power-on. The specific configuration of the delay output chip in the soft-start circuit 10 is described later in the specific structure of the control sub-circuit 2, and will not be elaborated here.

[0070] Depending on the specifications of the delay output chip, the preset time t mentioned in "control sub-circuit 2 is used to output a control signal after a preset time t after power-on at the input terminal of control sub-circuit 2" ranges from tens of milliseconds to hundreds of milliseconds. The specification signal of the delay output chip can be selected according to the power supply stabilization time, as long as it can ensure a stable power supply voltage output when the load is powered on. If the preset time t is too short, the delay conduction time between the first and second ports of the soft start circuit 10 will be too long. In this case, problems such as power instability or inrush current may still exist when the load is powered on.

[0071] If the preset time t is too long, the delay conduction time of the first port and the second port of the soft start circuit 10 will be too long, that is, the load power-on delay will be too long. When hot-plugging, the adapter / power board interface signal line has been stably connected but has not been powered on, which may cause damage to the interface device latch.

[0072] Depending on the power supply voltage connected to the first port of the soft start circuit 10, the load connected to the second port of the soft start circuit 10, and the different connection terminals used to connect the soft start circuit 10 to the power supply and the load, the required delay output time (i.e., the preset time t) of the soft start circuit 10 will also be different.

[0073] For example, the delay output time of the soft-start circuit 10 at least covers the pre-contact time of the connection terminal.

[0074] For example, if the pre-contact time of the connection terminal used by the soft start circuit 10 to connect to the load is 180 milliseconds, then the preset time t in the soft start circuit 10 can be 200 milliseconds.

[0075] For example, if the pre-contact time of the connection terminal used by the soft start circuit 10 to connect with the load is 10 milliseconds, then the preset time t in the soft start circuit 10 can be 15 milliseconds.

[0076] For example, if the pre-contact time of the connection terminal used by the soft start circuit 10 to connect with the load is 80 milliseconds, then the preset time t in the soft start circuit 10 can be 90 milliseconds.

[0077] Different specifications and models of delay output chips have different output delay times. That is, when delay output chips with different signal specifications are used in control sub-circuit 2, the preset time t of delay output of control sub-circuit 2 is different.

[0078] In the soft-start circuit 10, a suitable delay output chip is selected according to the specific application scenario (taking into account the power supply voltage, the connected load and the connection terminals used) to obtain a preset time t that meets the requirements.

[0079] For example, the delay output chip can be an LC9008 series chip or a MAX809X series chip. Of course, other signal specifications can also be used for the delay output chip, as long as they can meet the design requirements of the control sub-circuit 2. This disclosure does not limit this.

[0080] In this way, when the switch sub-circuit 1 of the soft start circuit 10 is turned on, that is, when the first port and the second port of the soft start circuit 10 are turned on, the power supply is connected to the load to supply power to the load. The power supply voltage is in a stable state, and there is no inrush current in the current path formed between the power supply and the load. The power supply circuit is in a stable working state, effectively avoiding the adverse effects caused by unstable power supply voltage or inrush current.

[0081] Meanwhile, even in the case of hot-swapping, the adapter / power board interface signal line is already in a powered-on state when it is stably connected. That is, the first and second ports of the soft-start circuit 10 are already conducting when the adapter / power board interface signal line is stably connected. This ensures that the soft-start circuit 10 can achieve the function of delayed power-on while avoiding the situation where the interface signal line is connected but the power supply is not yet powered on.

[0082] In some embodiments, such as Figure 1 As shown, the soft-start circuit 10 also includes a clamping sub-circuit 3, which is electrically connected to the first port and the input terminal of the control sub-circuit 2. The clamping sub-circuit 3 is used to clamp the voltage at the input terminal of the control sub-circuit 2 to a preset voltage range.

[0083] For example, the “preset voltage range” mentioned herein is within the operating voltage range of the control sub-circuit 2.

[0084] The operating voltage range of control sub-circuit 2 can refer to the range of the input voltage (i.e., the voltage at the input terminal of control sub-circuit 2) when control sub-circuit 2 can operate normally.

[0085] For example, the operating voltage range of the control sub-circuit 2 is [U1, U2], where U1 is less than U2, the minimum value of the operating voltage range of the control sub-circuit 2 is U1, and the maximum value of the operating voltage range of the control sub-circuit 2 is U2.

[0086] Then, the voltage U at the input terminal of control sub-circuit 2 入 The values ​​satisfy U1≤U 入 When U2 ≤ U2, control sub-circuit 2 can operate normally; the input voltage U at the input terminal of control sub-circuit 2 is... 入 When the voltage is less than U1, control sub-circuit 2 is in an undervoltage state and cannot work normally; the input voltage U at the input terminal of control sub-circuit 2 is... 入When the voltage is greater than U2, the control sub-circuit 2 is in an overvoltage state, which poses a risk of failure and damage.

[0087] Based on this, the preset voltage range can be [U3, U4], where U1≤U3<U4≤U2.

[0088] In the soft-start circuit 10 provided in this embodiment, by setting the clamping sub-circuit 3, the voltage of the input terminal of the control sub-circuit 2 can be clamped to a preset voltage range, thereby ensuring that the input voltage of the input terminal of the control sub-circuit 2 can be maintained within its operating voltage range, effectively avoiding the problem that the control sub-circuit 2 cannot work properly due to abnormal input voltage.

[0089] Based on the foregoing, as Figure 2 , Figure 3 and Figure 4 As shown, both the first port and the second port of the soft-start circuit 10 include a positive terminal and a negative terminal. The positive terminal of the first port is electrically connected to the positive terminal of the second port, and the negative terminal of the first port is electrically connected to the negative terminal of the second port.

[0090] The first port of the soft-start circuit 10 is used to receive the power supply voltage. Therefore, by way of example, the positive terminal of the first port can be electrically connected to the power supply terminal VCC.

[0091] Based on this, the negative terminal of the first port can serve as a zero-potential reference point in the circuit, used to determine the potential reference of each node in the circuit. The negative terminal of the first port of the soft-start circuit 10 can be connected to the ground wire or the neutral wire.

[0092] For example, such as Figures 5 to 8 As shown, the negative terminal of the first port of the soft-start circuit 10 can be ground (GND), that is, the negative terminal of the first port of the soft-start circuit 10 is connected to the ground.

[0093] Specifically, the negative terminal of the first port of the soft-start circuit 10 can be grounded by connecting it to the metal casing of the device through a wire; or, the negative terminal of the first port of the soft-start circuit 10 can be connected to the ground plane of the circuit board (a large area of ​​copper foil or a dedicated GND layer on the circuit board).

[0094] in this case, Figure 5 , Figure 7 and Figure 8 The GND1 and GND2 shown can be connected to different ground terminals respectively (e.g., GND1 and GND2 are connected to the GND layer of different circuit boards), or they can be connected to the same ground terminal (e.g., GND1 and GND2 are both connected to the GND layer of the same circuit board).

[0095] For example, Figure 5, Figure 7 and Figure 8 GND1 and GND2 are shown in the figure, and Figure 6 The GND shown can be a ground assumed for the purpose of application. For the power supply, it is the negative terminal of the power supply and is not necessarily connected to the ground.

[0096] Based on this, such as Figure 2 As shown, the switch sub-circuit 1 can be connected between the negative terminal of the first port and the negative terminal of the second port. The switch sub-circuit 1 is used to control the on / off state between the negative terminals of the first port and the negative terminals of the second port.

[0097] Or, such as Figure 3 As shown, the switch sub-circuit 1 can also be connected between the positive terminal of the first port and the positive terminal of the second port. The switch sub-circuit 1 can also be connected between the positive terminal of the first port and the positive terminal of the second port for both on / off switching.

[0098] Or, as Figure 4 As shown, the switch sub-circuit 1 may also include a first switch sub-circuit 11 and a second switch sub-circuit 12, wherein the first switch sub-circuit 11 is connected between the positive terminal of the first port and the positive terminal of the second port, and the second switch sub-circuit 12 is connected between the negative terminal of the first port and the negative terminal of the second port.

[0099] Based on this, in some embodiments, such as Figures 5 to 8 As shown, the clamping sub-circuit 3 includes a Zener diode D1. The first terminal of the Zener diode D1 is electrically connected to the input terminal of the control sub-circuit 2, and the second terminal of the Zener diode D1 is electrically connected to the negative terminal of the first port.

[0100] When the voltage applied to Zener diode D1 exceeds the breakdown voltage of Zener diode D1 (V Z When ), the Zener diode D1 conducts in reverse, thereby clamping the voltage across the Zener diode D1 at V. Z .

[0101] For example, the breakdown voltage (V) of the Zener diode D1 Z Within the operating voltage range of control sub-circuit 2, that is, U1≤V Z ≤U2.

[0102] Thus, as Figures 5 to 8 As shown, when the power supply voltage connected to the first port is abnormally high, or when there is a short circuit or other abnormally high voltage between the first port and the control sub-circuit 2, the Zener diode D1 can ensure that the driving voltage applied to the control sub-circuit 2 is kept within the operating voltage range of the control sub-circuit 2, preventing the control sub-circuit 2 from malfunctioning or even being damaged due to overvoltage.

[0103] In some embodiments, such as Figure 2 , Figure 3 and Figure 4 As shown, the soft-start circuit 10 also includes a voltage divider circuit 4, which is electrically connected to the positive terminal of the first port, the negative terminal of the first port, and the input terminal of the control sub-circuit 2.

[0104] Voltage divider circuit 4 converts the power supply voltage from the first port into a drive voltage and outputs the drive voltage. Control circuit 2 outputs a control signal in response to a preset time delay of the drive voltage. The drive voltage is less than the power supply voltage.

[0105] If the power supply voltage is greater than the maximum value of the operating voltage range of the control sub-circuit 2 (U2 mentioned above), applying the power supply voltage directly to the control sub-circuit 2 may cause the control sub-circuit 2 to be in an overvoltage state, resulting in the risk of failure and damage.

[0106] By setting up the voltage divider circuit 4, the power supply voltage U0 can be divided to obtain a driving voltage Uq that is smaller than the power supply voltage. The value of the driving voltage Uq is within the operating voltage range [U1, U2] of the control sub-circuit 2, that is, U1≤Uq≤U2.

[0107] In this way, the power supply voltage U0 received at the first port is reduced to the driving voltage Uq after passing through the voltage divider circuit 4. The voltage divider circuit 4 outputs the driving voltage Uq to the input terminal of the control circuit 2 to supply power to the control circuit 2, ensuring that the voltage applied to the control circuit 2 is within a safe range, and avoiding the control circuit 2 from malfunctioning or even being damaged due to overvoltage.

[0108] The phrase "control sub-circuit 2 outputs control signal in response to a preset time t delay of the driving voltage" in this article means that after receiving the driving voltage, control sub-circuit 2 outputs a control signal based on a preset time t delay of the moment the driving voltage is received.

[0109] For example, if the input terminal of control sub-circuit 2 receives the driving voltage Uq at time T1, then control sub-circuit 2 will be powered on at time T1 and output a control signal at time T1+t.

[0110] In some embodiments, such as Figures 5 to 8 As shown, the voltage divider circuit 4 includes: a first resistor R1 and a second resistor R2. The first end of the first resistor R1 is electrically connected to the positive terminal of the first port, the second end of the first resistor R1 is electrically connected to the first end of the second resistor R2, and the second end of the second resistor R2 is electrically connected to the negative terminal of the first port.

[0111] The common terminal of the first resistor R1 and the second resistor R2 serves as the third terminal of the voltage divider circuit 4.

[0112] The first resistor R1 and the second resistor R2 are connected in series between the positive and negative terminals of the first port. The first resistor R1 and the second resistor R2 act as a voltage divider. By adjusting the ratio of the resistance values ​​of the first resistor R1 and the second resistor R2, the power supply voltage received at the first port can be converted into a driving voltage that matches the control sub-circuit 2, thus avoiding the problem that the control sub-circuit 2 cannot work properly due to the voltage being too large or too small.

[0113] Meanwhile, voltage division is achieved by using two resistors connected in series (the first resistor R1 and the second resistor R2), which is simple, reliable, and helps reduce circuit costs.

[0114] Meanwhile, in conjunction with the preceding embodiments, such as Figures 5 to 8 As shown, the first resistor R1 and the Zener diode D1 are connected in parallel between the positive and negative terminals of the first port (that is, ...). Figure 5 , Figure 7 and Figure 8 VCC1 and GND1 are shown in the diagram, or... Figure 6 As shown in the diagram (VCC1 and GND), the first resistor R1, while serving as part of the voltage divider circuit 4, can also shunt the Zener diode D1 to a certain extent, preventing excessive current flowing through the Zener diode D1 from causing damage or even destruction to the Zener diode D1, and preventing the clamping circuit 3 from being affected by abnormal current.

[0115] The following describes in more detail the soft-start circuit 10 of some embodiments of this disclosure, with reference to the specific connection position of the switch sub-circuit 1.

[0116] In some embodiments, such as Figure 2 As shown, the switch sub-circuit 1 is electrically connected to the negative terminal of the first port and the negative terminal of the second port.

[0117] Based on this, such as Figure 5 As shown, the switch sub-circuit 1 includes a first switch element Q1. The control electrode of the first switch element Q1 is electrically connected to the control sub-circuit 2. The first electrode of the first switch element Q1 is electrically connected to the negative terminal of the first port. The second electrode of the first switch element Q1 is electrically connected to the negative terminal of the second port.

[0118] like Figure 5 As shown, the first and second terminals of the first switching element Q1 are turned on in response to a control signal received at its control terminal, thereby controlling the negative terminals of the first and second ports of the soft-start circuit 10 to conduct. By controlling the on / off state of the first switching element Q1, the on / off state between the negative terminals of the first and second ports is controlled.

[0119] For example, the first switching element Q1 can be a switching device such as a transistor or a relay. Transistors include, but are not limited to, bipolar junction transistors (BJTs), field-effect transistors (FETs), or insulated-gate bipolar transistors (IGBTs).

[0120] Among them, field-effect transistors include junction field-effect transistors (JFETs) and metal-oxide-semiconductor field-effect transistors (MOSFETs).

[0121] The specific type of the first switching element Q1 can be selected according to actual needs, as long as it can meet the requirements of the switching sub-circuit 1. This disclosure does not limit it in this regard.

[0122] In this situation (where the switch sub-circuit 1 is connected between the negative terminal of the first port and the negative terminal of the second port), in some embodiments, such as Figure 5 As shown, the control sub-circuit 2 includes a delay output chip. The power supply pin of the delay output chip is electrically connected to the third terminal of the voltage divider sub-circuit 4. The output pin of the delay output chip is electrically connected to the control electrode of the first switching element Q1. The ground pin of the delay output chip is electrically connected to the negative terminal of the first port.

[0123] Among them, such as Figures 5 to 8 As shown, the power supply pin of the delay output chip is the VCC pin shown in the figure, the output pin of the delay output chip is the EN pin shown in the figure, and the ground pin of the delay output chip is the GND pin shown in the figure.

[0124] The voltage divider circuit 4 can convert the power supply voltage into the operating voltage required by the delay output chip, avoiding problems such as damage to the delay output chip or failure to work due to undervoltage caused by excessively high or low voltage.

[0125] For example, such as Figure 5 As shown, the power supply pin of the delay output chip serves as the input terminal of control sub-circuit 2. The power supply pin of the delay output chip is connected to the third terminal of voltage divider sub-circuit 4 (i.e., Figure 5 The common terminal of the first resistor R1 and the second resistor R2 shown in the figure is connected to the negative terminal of the first port. The ground pin of the delay output chip and the second terminal of the second resistor R2 are both connected to the negative terminal of the first port.

[0126] In this way, the power supply pin and ground pin of the delay output chip are connected in parallel to the two ends of the second resistor R2, and the potential difference across the second resistor R2 in the voltage divider circuit 4 is the driving voltage provided by the voltage divider circuit 4 to the control circuit 2.

[0127] After the power supply pin of the delay output chip is powered on, the output pin of the delay output chip outputs a control signal to the control electrode of the first switching element Q1 after a preset delay. This control signal can be a voltage signal or a current signal used to control the first switching element Q1 to turn on.

[0128] When the first switching element Q1 is a transistor, the control signal output by the output pin of the delay output chip can be a voltage signal, which can be a high-level signal or a low-level signal output to the control electrode of the first switching element Q1.

[0129] When the first switching element Q1 is a relay, the control signal output by the output pin of the delay output chip can be either a voltage signal or a current signal. When the control signal transmitted to the control electrode of the relay reaches the set threshold, the electromagnetic device inside the relay is triggered to turn on the relay.

[0130] In this way, by delaying the output of the delay output chip after power-on, the first switching element Q1 is controlled to turn on after power-on with a delay. By delaying the power-on time of the load through the preset delay time, the delayed conduction between the power supply and the load is achieved, avoiding circuit abnormalities caused by unstable power supply or pulse current during hot-plugging, ensuring electrical safety, and preventing damage to the load or power supply caused by circuit abnormalities during power-on.

[0131] In some embodiments, such as Figure 5 As shown, when the switch sub-circuit 1 is electrically connected to the negative terminal of the first port and the negative terminal of the second port, the control sub-circuit 2 also includes a third resistor R3. The first end of the third resistor R3 is electrically connected to the output pin of the delay output chip, and the second end of the third resistor R3 is electrically connected to the control electrode of the first switching element Q1.

[0132] In this case, the second terminal of the third resistor R3 can be used as the output terminal of the control sub-circuit 2.

[0133] The third resistor R3 is connected between the output pin of the delay output chip and the control electrode of the first switching element Q1. As a current-limiting resistor, the third resistor R3 can limit the magnitude of the current output to the control electrode of the first switching element Q1, thereby avoiding the problem that the first switching element Q1 may be damaged or even destroyed due to excessive current output to the control electrode of the first switching element Q1.

[0134] In some embodiments, such as Figure 5 As shown, the first switching transistor Q1 is an N-type transistor.

[0135] For example, such as Figure 5 As shown, the first switching element Q1 can be an N-type MOSFET.

[0136] Thus, as Figure 5 As shown, before the control sub-circuit 2 is powered on, the potential of the control electrode of the first switching element Q1 is low, the first switching element Q1 is in the off state, and the negative terminal of the first port of the soft start circuit 10 is disconnected from the negative terminal of the second port, that is... Figure 5 GND1 and GND2 are disconnected as shown in the diagram.

[0137] like Figure 5 As shown, after the control sub-circuit 2 is powered on, it outputs a control signal after a set delay. In this case, the control signal can be a high-level signal output to the control electrode of the first switching element Q1. This causes the potential of the control electrode of the first switching element Q1 to change from low to high, connecting the first and second electrodes of the first switching element Q1. This connects the negative terminals of the first and second ports of the soft-start circuit 10, i.e. Figure 5 The diagram shows that GND1 and GND2 are connected.

[0138] In some embodiments, such as Figure 3 As shown, the switch sub-circuit 1 is electrically connected to the positive terminal of the first port and the positive terminal of the second port.

[0139] Based on this, such as Figure 6 As shown, the switch sub-circuit 1 includes a first switch element Q1. The control electrode of the first switch element Q1 is electrically connected to the control sub-circuit 2. The first electrode of the first switch element Q1 is electrically connected to the positive terminal of the first port. The second electrode of the first switch element Q1 is electrically connected to the positive terminal of the second port.

[0140] like Figure 6 As shown, the first and second terminals of the first switching element Q1 are turned on in response to the control signal received by its control terminal, thereby controlling the positive terminal of the first port of the soft start circuit 10 to be turned on to the positive terminal of the second port.

[0141] The specific type of the first switching element Q1 in this embodiment is described in the previous embodiment, and will not be repeated here.

[0142] In this situation (where the switch sub-circuit 1 is connected between the positive terminals of the first and second ports), in some embodiments, such as Figure 6 As shown, the control sub-circuit 2 also includes a delay output chip and a second switching element Q2.

[0143] like Figure 6 As shown, the power supply pin of the delay output chip is electrically connected to the third terminal of the voltage divider circuit 4, the output pin of the delay output chip is electrically connected to the control electrode of the second switching element Q2, and the ground pin of the delay output chip is electrically connected to the negative terminal of the first port.

[0144] like Figure 6 As shown, the first terminal of the second switching element Q2 is electrically connected to the control terminal of the first switching element Q1, and the second terminal of the second switching element Q2 is electrically connected to the negative terminal of the first port. That is, the second switching element Q2 is used to control the on / off connection between the control terminal of the first switching element Q1 and the negative terminal of the first port.

[0145] For example, the second switching element Q2 can be a switching device such as a transistor or a relay. The specific type of the second switching element Q2 is described in the previous embodiment regarding the first switching element Q1, and will not be repeated here.

[0146] In this configuration, the delay output chip controls the second switching element Q2 to turn on, and the second switching element Q2 controls the first switching element Q1 to turn on. The second switching element Q2 acts as a control switch for the first switching element Q1 and serves as the output terminal of the control sub-circuit 2.

[0147] In this case, the specific control method of the control sub-circuit 2 on the switching sub-circuit 1 will be described later, and will not be repeated here.

[0148] In this way, by delaying the output of the delay output chip after power-on, the second switching element Q2 is controlled to conduct after a delay after power-on, thereby controlling the first switching element Q1 to conduct. By delaying the power-on time of the load through the preset delay time, the delayed conduction between the power supply and the load is achieved, avoiding circuit abnormalities caused by power instability or pulse current during hot-plugging, ensuring electrical safety, and preventing damage to the load or power supply caused by circuit abnormalities during power-on.

[0149] The beneficial technical effects of connecting the voltage divider circuit 4 with the delay output chip, as well as the introduction to the delay output chip, can be found in the previous text and will not be repeated here.

[0150] After the power supply pin of the delay output chip is powered on, the output pin of the delay output chip outputs a control signal to the control electrode of the second switching element Q2 after a preset delay. This control signal can be a voltage signal or a current signal used to control the second switching element Q2 to turn on.

[0151] When the second switching element Q2 is a transistor, the control signal output by the output pin of the delay output chip can be a voltage signal. This voltage signal can be a high-level signal or a low-level signal output to the control electrode of the second switching element Q2.

[0152] When the second switching element Q2 is a relay, the control signal output by the output pin of the delay output chip can be either a voltage signal or a current signal. When the control signal transmitted to the control electrode of the relay reaches the set threshold, the electromagnetic device inside the relay is triggered to turn on the relay.

[0153] In some embodiments, such as Figure 6 As shown, when the switch sub-circuit 1 is electrically connected to the positive terminal of the first port and the positive terminal of the second port, the control sub-circuit 2 also includes a third resistor R3. The first end of the third resistor R3 is electrically connected to the output pin of the delay output chip, and the second end of the third resistor R3 is electrically connected to the control electrode of the second switching element Q2.

[0154] The third resistor R3 is connected between the output pin of the delay output chip and the control electrode of the second switching element Q2. As a current-limiting resistor, the third resistor R3 can limit the magnitude of the current output to the control electrode of the second switching element Q2, thereby avoiding the problem that the second switching element Q2 may be damaged or even destroyed due to excessive current output to the control electrode of the second switching element Q2.

[0155] In some embodiments, such as Figure 6 As shown, the first switching element Q1 is a P-type transistor, and the second switching element Q2 is an N-type transistor.

[0156] For example, such as Figure 6 As shown, the first switching element Q1 can be a P-type MOSFET. The second switching element Q2 can be an N-type transistor.

[0157] In this case, the control sub-circuit 2 also includes a fourth resistor R4, the first end of which is electrically connected to the positive terminal of the first port, and the second end of which is electrically connected to the control electrode of the first switching element Q1.

[0158] That is, the fourth resistor R4 is connected between the positive terminal of the first port and the control terminal of the first switching element Q1, and the control terminal of the first switching element Q1 is connected to the positive terminal of the first port through the fourth resistor R4.

[0159] In the soft-start circuit 10, the fourth resistor R4 in the control sub-circuit 2 serves as a pull-up resistor. Before the control sub-circuit 2 is powered on, the control electrode of the first switching element Q1 is connected to the positive terminal of the first port through the fourth resistor R4, that is... Figure 6VCC1, as shown, causes the control electrode of the first switching element Q1 to be at a high level, putting the first switching element Q1 in the off state. This disconnects the positive terminals of the first and second ports of the soft-start circuit 10. Figure 6 VCC1 and VCC2 are disconnected as shown in the diagram.

[0160] like Figure 6 As shown, after the control sub-circuit 2 is powered on, it outputs a control signal after a set delay. In this case, the control signal can be a high-level signal output to the control terminal of the second switching element Q2. This causes the first and second terminals of the second switching element Q2 to conduct, thereby enabling the control terminal of the first switching element Q1 to pass through the negative terminal of the first port (i.e.,...) via the second switching element Q2. Figure 6 As shown in the diagram, GND1 is turned on, thereby pulling the potential of the control electrode of the first switching element Q1 low (from high level to low level). The first and second electrodes of the first switching element Q1 are turned on, thereby connecting the positive terminals of the first and second ports of the soft-start circuit 10. Figure 6 VCC1 and VCC2 are shown to be on.

[0161] It should be noted that, Figure 6 The labels VCC1 and VCC2 are only for easy distinction between the positive terminal of the first port (VCC1) and the positive terminal of the second port (VCC2). In actual products, the positive terminal of the first port is connected to the power supply. The positive terminal of the second port is not connected to the power supply itself. Only after the first switching element Q1 is turned on can the positive terminal of the second port be connected to the power supply through the first switching element Q1 and the positive terminal of the first port.

[0162] In some embodiments, such as Figure 4 As shown, the switch sub-circuit 1 includes a first switch sub-circuit 11 and a second switch sub-circuit 12. The first switch sub-circuit 11 is electrically connected to the positive terminal of the first port and the positive terminal of the second port, and the second switch sub-circuit 12 is electrically connected to the negative terminal of the first port and the negative terminal of the second port.

[0163] For example, such as Figure 7 and Figure 8 As shown, the first switch sub-circuit 11 includes a third switch element Q3. The control electrode of the third switch element Q3 is electrically connected to the control sub-circuit 2. The first electrode of the third switch element Q3 is electrically connected to the positive terminal of the first port. The second electrode of the third switch element Q3 is electrically connected to the positive terminal of the second port.

[0164] The third switching element Q3 can be a transistor or a relay, or other switching device. The specific type of the third switching element Q3 is described in the previous embodiment regarding the first switching element Q1, and will not be repeated here.

[0165] For example, such as Figure 7 and Figure 8 As shown, the second switching element Q2 is an N-type transistor, and the third switching element Q3 is a P-type transistor.

[0166] In this case, such as Figure 7 and Figure 8 As shown, the control sub-circuit 2 also includes a fourth resistor R4 and a second switching element Q2.

[0167] Specifically, the first terminal of the fourth resistor R4 is electrically connected to the positive terminal of the first port, and the second terminal of the fourth resistor R4 is electrically connected to the control terminal of the third switching element Q3. The first terminal of the second switching element Q2 is electrically connected to the control terminal of the third switching element Q3, and the second terminal of the second switching element Q2 is electrically connected to the negative terminal of the first port.

[0168] The first and second terminals of the third switching element Q3 are turned on in response to the control signal received by its control terminal, thereby controlling the positive terminals of the first and second ports of the soft-start circuit 10 to be turned on.

[0169] For example, such as Figure 7 and Figure 8 As shown, the second switching element Q2 can be an N-type transistor. The third switching element Q3 can be a P-type MOSFET.

[0170] like Figure 7 and Figure 8 As shown, taking [example 1] as an example. In the soft-start circuit 10, the fourth resistor R4 in the control sub-circuit 2 serves as a pull-up resistor. Before the control sub-circuit 2 is powered on, the control electrode of the third switching element Q3 is connected to the positive terminal of the first port through the fourth resistor R4, that is... Figure 7 and Figure 8 VCC1, as shown, causes the control electrode of the third switching element Q3 to be at a high level, putting the third switching element Q3 in the off state. This disconnects the positive terminals of the first and second ports of the soft-start circuit 10, meaning... Figure 7 and Figure 8 VCC1 and VCC2 are disconnected as shown in the diagram.

[0171] like Figure 7 and Figure 8 As shown, after the control sub-circuit 2 is powered on, it outputs a control signal after a set delay. In this case, the control signal can be a high-level signal output to the control terminal of the second switching element Q2. This turns on the first and second terminals of the second switching element Q2, thereby enabling the control terminal of the third switching element Q3 to pass through the negative terminal of the first port (i.e.,...) of the second switching element Q2. Figure 7 and Figure 8As shown, GND1 is turned on, thereby pulling the potential of the control electrode of the third switching element Q3 low (from high level to low level). The first and second electrodes of the third switching element Q3 are turned on, thereby connecting the positive terminals of the first and second ports of the soft-start circuit 10, i.e. Figure 7 and Figure 8 VCC1 and VCC2 are shown to be on.

[0172] For example, such as Figure 7 and Figure 8 As shown, the second switch sub-circuit 12 includes a fourth switch element Q4, and the control electrode of the fourth switch element Q4 is electrically connected to the control sub-circuit 2.

[0173] like Figure 7 As shown, the first pole of the fourth switching element Q4 can be electrically connected to the second pole of the second switching element Q2, and the second pole of the fourth switching element Q4 is electrically connected to the negative terminal of the second port.

[0174] In this way, the first and second terminals of the fourth switching element Q4 are turned on in response to the control signal received by its control terminal, thereby controlling the negative terminal of the first port of the soft start circuit 10 to be turned on to the negative terminal of the second port.

[0175] Or, such as Figure 8 As shown, the first pole of the fourth switching element Q4 can be electrically connected to the negative terminal of the first port, and the second pole of the fourth switching element Q4 is electrically connected to the second pole of the second switching element Q2.

[0176] In this way, the first and second terminals of the fourth switching element Q4 are turned on in response to the control signal received by its control terminal, thereby controlling the negative terminal of the first port of the soft start circuit 10 to be turned on with the second terminal of the second switching element Q2, thereby turning on the control terminal of the third switching element Q3 to be turned on with the negative terminal of the first port, thereby pulling down the potential of the control terminal of the third switching element Q3.

[0177] The fourth switching element Q4 can be a transistor or a relay, or other switching device. The specific type of the fourth switching element Q4 is described in the previous embodiment regarding the first switching element Q1, and will not be repeated here.

[0178] For example, such as Figure 7 and Figure 8 As shown, the second switching element Q2 can be an N-type transistor. The fourth switching element Q4 can be an N-type MOSFET.

[0179] Thus, as Figure 7 and Figure 8As shown, before the control sub-circuit 2 is powered on, both the second switching element Q2 and the fourth switching element Q4 are in the off state. The negative terminal of the first port of the soft-start circuit 10 is disconnected from the negative terminal of the second port, and the control terminal of the third switching element Q3 is disconnected from the negative terminal of the first port. That is, Figure 7 and Figure 8 As shown, GND1 is disconnected from GND2, and the control electrode of the third switching element Q3 is also disconnected from GND1.

[0180] like Figure 7 and Figure 8 As shown, after the control sub-circuit 2 is powered on, the control sub-circuit 2 outputs a control signal after a set delay. In this case, the control signal can be a high-level signal output to the control electrode of the fourth switching element Q4. Thus, the potential of the control electrode of the fourth switching element Q4 changes from low level to high level. At the same time, the potential of the control electrode of the second switching element Q2 also changes from low level to high level.

[0181] Thus, the first and second terminals of the fourth switching element Q4 are turned on, thereby connecting the negative terminals of the first and second ports of the soft-start circuit 10. Figure 7 and Figure 8 As shown, GND1 and GND2 are connected. The first and second terminals of the second switching element Q2 are connected, and the control terminal of the third switching element Q3 is connected to the negative terminal of the first port through the second switching element Q2 and the fourth switching element Q4. Figure 7 and Figure 8 The control terminal of the third switching element Q3 shown is connected to GND1, thereby connecting the first and second terminals of the third switching element Q3, which in turn connects the positive terminals of the first and second ports of the soft-start circuit 10.

[0182] In some embodiments, such as Figure 2 , Figure 3 and Figure 4 As shown, the soft-start circuit 10 also includes a voltage regulator circuit 5. The first terminal of the voltage regulator circuit 5 is electrically connected to the positive terminal of the second port, and the second terminal of the voltage regulator circuit 5 is electrically connected to the negative terminal of the second port. The voltage regulator circuit 5 is used to maintain the stability of the output voltage of the second port.

[0183] Sudden load changes or fluctuations in the power supply voltage connected to the first port can cause instability in the output voltage of the second port. By setting up the voltage regulator circuit 5, the stability of the power supply voltage output through the second port can be ensured.

[0184] Meanwhile, the power supply voltage output from the second port of the soft-start circuit 10 may contain noise (such as MOSFET switching noise or input power supply ripple). By setting the voltage regulator sub-circuit, the noise can be suppressed and a low-ripple voltage can be output to meet the needs of sensitive loads.

[0185] In some embodiments, such as Figures 5 to 8 As shown, the voltage regulator circuit 5 includes: a first capacitor C1, and / or a second capacitor C2.

[0186] The first capacitor C1 is a polarized capacitor. The positive terminal of the first capacitor C1 is electrically connected to the positive terminal of the second port, and the negative terminal of the first capacitor C1 is electrically connected to the negative terminal of the second port.

[0187] The second capacitor C2 is a non-polar capacitor. The first plate of the second capacitor C2 is electrically connected to the positive terminal of the second port, and the second plate of the second capacitor C2 is electrically connected to the negative terminal of the second port.

[0188] By setting a first capacitor C1 and / or a second capacitor C2 on the output side of the soft-start circuit 10, the downstream circuit (such as the load or other functional circuits) can be filtered to avoid interference from conducted noise introduced by long-distance terminal leads and high-frequency noise (such as DCDC switching noise) of the power line (VCC / GND) to the downstream circuit.

[0189] Since there are first capacitor C1 and / or second capacitor C2 in the circuit, if the first port and the second port of the soft start circuit 10 are directly connected when powered on, a large pulse current may be generated at the moment of power-on. In addition, in many cases, obvious arcing can be seen at the DC connector of the mechanical terminal. This phenomenon may cause circuit abnormalities and damage to circuit components.

[0190] In conjunction with the preceding embodiments, some soft-start circuits 10 disclosed herein can achieve delayed conduction of the first and second ports after power-on by cooperating with the control sub-circuit 2 and the switch sub-circuit 1, thereby avoiding arcing during hot-plugging and improving circuit safety.

[0191] See Figures 6 to 8 As discussed above, the fourth resistor R4 acts as a pull-up resistor. When the second switching element Q2 is not conducting, it pulls the potential of the control terminals of the first switching element Q1 / third switching element Q3 high, preventing the first switching element Q1 / third switching element Q3 from conducting. This keeps the positive terminals of the first and second ports (i.e.,...) Figures 6 to 8 VCC1 and VCC2 in the capacitor are not connected, and the first capacitor C1 and / or the second capacitor C2 cannot be charged before they are connected.

[0192] When the input pin of the delay output chip is powered on, the output pin of the delay output chip will output a control signal after a preset time t (which can be tens of milliseconds or hundreds of milliseconds, depending on the application scenario of the soft start circuit 10). The second switching element Q2 is turned on, and the potential of the control electrode of the first switching element Q1 / third switching element Q3 is pulled low. At this time, the first switching element Q1 / third switching element Q3 is turned on, and the positive terminal of the first port is connected to the positive terminal of the second port, thereby supplying power to the first capacitor C1 and / or the second capacitor C2.

[0193] Thus, in the soft-start circuit 10 of some embodiments of this disclosure, the delay output time of the delay output chip is used to delay the power-on time of the input power supply, thereby reducing the inrush current and avoiding voltage fluctuations and arcing.

[0194] Meanwhile, the power consumption of the first switching element Q1 / the third switching element Q3 is very large during the transition from cutoff to conduction. If the capacitor charges too slowly, resulting in a long edge time, the first switching element Q1 / the third switching element Q3 will be damaged due to excessive power consumption.

[0195] By selecting a suitable delay output chip, the preset time of the delay output of the control sub-circuit 2 can be kept within the expected range, thereby avoiding the adverse problems caused by the capacitor charging too slowly.

[0196] In conjunction with the above embodiments, it should be noted that the power supply voltage connected to the first port mentioned in this article refers to the potential difference between the positive and negative terminals of the first port. The potential of the negative terminal of the first port can be used as a reference potential or a reference potential. The difference between the potential of VCC connected to the positive terminal of the first port and the reference potential is the value of the power supply voltage connected to the first port.

[0197] The power supply voltage output from the second port mentioned in this article refers to the potential difference between the positive and negative terminals of the second port. When the first and second ports of the soft-start circuit 10 are turned on, the positive terminal of the first port is connected to the positive terminal of the second port, and the negative terminal of the first port is connected to the negative terminal of the second port.

[0198] The power supply voltage connected to the first port may experience some loss during the process of being output through the second port after passing through the soft-start circuit 10. That is, the power supply voltage output by the second port may be slightly smaller than the power supply voltage connected to the first port. However, this loss can be ignored. In other words, after the first port and the second port are turned on (that is, the switch sub-circuit 1 is turned on), the potential of the positive terminal of the first port and the potential of the positive terminal of the second port are considered to be the same; the potential of the negative terminal of the first port and the potential of the negative terminal of the second port are considered to be the same.

[0199] The driving voltage output from the voltage divider circuit 4 to the control circuit 2, as described in this article, refers to the potential difference across the second resistor R2 in the voltage divider circuit 4. The common terminal of the first resistor R1 and the second resistor R2 serves as the output terminal of the voltage divider circuit 4. The power supply pin of the delay output chip is connected to the output terminal of the voltage divider circuit 4. Therefore, the potential at the output terminal of the voltage divider circuit 4 and the potential at the power supply pin of the delay output chip can be considered to be the same.

[0200] Meanwhile, the ground pin of the delay output chip and the second terminal of the second resistor R2 are both connected to the negative terminal of the first port. Therefore, the potential of the ground pin of the delay output chip and the potential of the second terminal of the second resistor R2 can be considered the same. Thus, the voltage across the second resistor R2 is the driving voltage provided by the voltage divider circuit 4 to the control circuit 2.

[0201] The soft-start circuit 10 provided in some embodiments of this disclosure can be applied to power modules such as power adapters or power boards. In this way, when the power adapter / power board supplies power to the load, the power adapter / power supply can delay supplying power to the load for a preset time after being connected to the load, effectively avoiding instability in the power supply circuit caused by unstable power supply during the load's power-on process.

[0202] Alternatively, the soft-start circuit 10 provided in some embodiments of this disclosure can also be applied to electrical devices such as gateways and lighting devices. In this way, since the electrical device itself has a power-on protection function, even if the electrical device is directly connected to the power supply for power, after the electrical device is connected to the power supply, the specific functional structure of the electrical device (such as the lamps in the lighting device) can be connected to the power supply after a preset delay, thereby ensuring the safety of the power-on process of the electrical device.

[0203] Meanwhile, if such electrical devices with soft-start circuit 10 are used in conjunction with power adapters or power boards equipped with soft-start circuit 10, they can also achieve multi-stage delayed output during the power-on process, further improving the safety of the power-on process.

[0204] Alternatively, the soft-start circuit 10 provided in some embodiments of this disclosure may be set separately from the power supply and load.

[0205] Based on the above, this disclosure provides a power adapter. The power adapter includes the soft-start circuit 10 described in any of the preceding embodiments.

[0206] For example, the power adapter may also include other functional structures such as an AC / DC conversion unit and a voltage conversion unit, such as an AC / DC conversion circuit, a DC / DC conversion circuit, etc. The first port of the soft-start circuit 10 may be electrically connected to the power supply through the AC / DC conversion circuit.

[0207] This disclosure also provides a power board. The power board includes a circuit board and a soft-start circuit 10 as described in any of the preceding embodiments, the soft-start circuit 10 being disposed on the circuit board.

[0208] The first port of the soft-start circuit 10 can be directly connected to the power supply. Alternatively, the first port of the soft-start circuit 10 can also be connected to the power supply through other circuit structures on the power supply board.

[0209] For example, the power board may also include an AC / DC conversion circuit, a DC / DC conversion circuit, etc., disposed on the circuit board. The first port of the soft-start circuit 10 may be electrically connected to the power supply via the AC / DC conversion circuit.

[0210] This disclosure also provides a power-on protection device. This power-on protection device includes the soft-start circuit 10 described in any of the preceding embodiments.

[0211] like Figure 9 As shown, the input port of the power-on protection device is used for electrical connection to the power supply, and the output port of the power-on protection device is used for electrical connection to the load. The power-on protection device is used to output the power supply voltage after a preset delay following power-on.

[0212] The instantaneous current surge generated during the power-on process can adversely affect the power supply and the load. By setting a power-on protection device between the power supply and the load, the power supply voltage can be delayed. The power supply voltage is output after a set delay after power-on, thereby ensuring that the output voltage / current is relatively stable, ensuring the stability of the power supply circuit between the power supply and the load, as well as the safety of the power supply circuit.

[0213] This disclosure also provides an electrical device with power-on protection function. The electrical device includes a load and a soft-start circuit 10 as described in any of the preceding embodiments, wherein the second port of the soft-start circuit 10 is electrically connected to the load.

[0214] For example, the electrical devices described herein include, but are not limited to, lighting devices, gateways, etc.

[0215] Taking the aforementioned "electrical device with power-on protection function" as an example, such as lighting devices, Figure 10 As shown, the lighting device includes a lamp and a soft-start circuit 10, with the second port of the soft-start circuit 10 electrically connected to the lamp.

[0216] For example, the luminaire may include at least one semiconductor lighting device, such as an LED (Light Emitting Diode) lamp.

[0217] In addition to the aforementioned lamps and soft-start circuit 10, the lighting device may also include other electronic components, functional circuits, etc., which are not limited in this disclosure.

[0218] In this way, after the lighting device is connected to the power supply, the first port of the soft start circuit 10 is connected to the power supply voltage, the control sub-circuit 2 in the soft start circuit 10 is powered on, and after the control sub-circuit 2 is powered on, the control switch sub-circuit 1 is turned on after a preset delay, so that the power supply and the lighting device can be turned on after a preset delay after power-on, thereby avoiding power instability, "arcing" and other problems that may occur during hot-plugging, ensuring the stability of the power supply circuit between the power supply and the load, as well as the safety of the power supply circuit.

[0219] This disclosure also provides a lighting system.

[0220] In some embodiments, the lighting system includes a lighting device, which includes a luminaire and a soft-start circuit 10, the second port of which is electrically connected to the luminaire.

[0221] In this way, since the lighting device itself has a delayed power-on function, the delayed power-on function can be achieved regardless of whether the lighting device is directly connected to the power supply or connected to the power supply through a power adapter / power board, etc., avoiding possible defects during hot-swapping and ensuring power-on safety.

[0222] In other embodiments, the lighting system includes a lighting device and the power-on protection device described above (e.g., Figure 9 (The power-on protection device shown). The output port of the power-on protection device is electrically connected to the lighting device.

[0223] In this way, both the lighting fixture and the power-on protection device can be manufactured, transported, and sold separately, facilitating production and transportation. During use, the lighting fixture and the power-on protection device can be connected via connectors, facilitating product installation and assembly. Furthermore, if either device malfunctions or is damaged, it can be disassembled separately for inspection or replacement, simplifying the replacement of faulty components.

[0224] Meanwhile, in the lighting system of this embodiment, the power-on protection device connected between the power supply and the lighting device is equipped with a soft-start circuit 10. Therefore, the lighting device may or may not be equipped with a soft-start circuit 10, and this disclosure does not limit this.

[0225] It should be noted that, in this document, relational terms such as "first" and "second" are used merely to distinguish one entity or operation from another, and do not necessarily require or imply any such actual relationship or order between these entities or operations. Furthermore, the terms "comprising," "including," or any other variations thereof are intended to cover non-exclusive inclusion, such that a process, method, article, or apparatus that comprises a list of elements includes not only those elements but also other elements not expressly listed, or elements inherent to such a process, method, article, or apparatus. Without further limitations, an element defined by the phrase "comprising one..." does not exclude the presence of other identical elements in the process, method, article, or apparatus that includes said element.

[0226] The term "electrical connection" as used in this article includes both physical and non-physical connections. For example, an electrical connection between A and B can refer to an indirect connection through electromagnetic induction, capacitive coupling, or other similar methods. Alternatively, an electrical connection between A and B can also be a direct conductive path formed through contact between metal wires, cables, connectors, or interface terminals. Furthermore, an electrical connection between A and B can be a direct connection between A and B, or a connection between A and B through other structural elements.

[0227] The above description is merely a specific embodiment of this disclosure, enabling those skilled in the art to understand or implement it. Various modifications to these embodiments will be readily apparent to those skilled in the art, and the general principles defined herein may be implemented in other embodiments without departing from the spirit or scope of this disclosure. Therefore, this disclosure is not to be limited to the embodiments described herein, but is to be accorded the widest scope consistent with the principles and novel features disclosed herein.

Claims

1. A soft-start circuit, characterized in that, include: A first port and a second port, wherein the first port is used to receive the power supply voltage and the second port is used to output the power supply voltage; A switching sub-circuit is electrically connected to the first port and the second port; A control sub-circuit, wherein the input terminal of the control sub-circuit is electrically connected to the first port, and the output terminal of the control sub-circuit is electrically connected to the switch sub-circuit; The clamping sub-circuit is electrically connected to the first port and the input terminal of the control sub-circuit; The control sub-circuit is used to output a control signal after a preset time delay after being powered on at its input terminal. The switching sub-circuit is used to control the first port and the second port to be turned on in response to the control signal; The clamping sub-circuit is used to clamp the voltage at the input terminal of the control sub-circuit to a preset voltage range.

2. The soft-start circuit according to claim 1, characterized in that, Both the first port and the second port include a positive terminal and a negative terminal; The switch sub-circuit is electrically connected to the positive terminal of the first port and the positive terminal of the second port; or, the switch sub-circuit is electrically connected to the negative terminal of the first port and the negative terminal of the second port.

3. The soft-start circuit according to claim 2, characterized in that, The soft-start circuit also includes: The voltage divider circuit is electrically connected to the positive terminal of the first port, the negative terminal of the first port, and the input terminal of the control circuit. The voltage divider circuit is used to convert the power supply voltage from the first port into a driving voltage and output the driving voltage; the driving voltage is less than the power supply voltage. The control sub-circuit is used to output the control signal in response to the driving voltage after a preset time delay.

4. The soft-start circuit according to claim 3, characterized in that, The voltage divider circuit includes: a first resistor and a second resistor; The first end of the first resistor is electrically connected to the positive terminal of the first port, the second end of the first resistor is electrically connected to the first end of the second resistor, and the second end of the second resistor is electrically connected to the negative terminal of the first port. The common terminal of the first resistor and the second resistor serves as the third terminal of the voltage divider circuit.

5. The soft-start circuit according to claim 3, characterized in that, The switching sub-circuit includes: a first switching element; the control electrode of the first switching element is electrically connected to the control sub-circuit, the first electrode of the first switching element is electrically connected to the negative terminal of the first port, and the second electrode of the first switching element is electrically connected to the negative terminal of the second port. The control sub-circuit includes: a delay output chip; the power supply pin of the delay output chip is electrically connected to the third terminal of the voltage divider sub-circuit, the output pin of the delay output chip is electrically connected to the control electrode of the first switching element, and the ground pin of the delay output chip is electrically connected to the negative terminal of the first port.

6. The soft-start circuit according to claim 3, characterized in that, The switching sub-circuit includes: a first switching element; the control electrode of the first switching element is electrically connected to the control sub-circuit, the first electrode of the first switching element is electrically connected to the positive terminal of the first port, and the second electrode of the first switching element is electrically connected to the positive terminal of the second port; The control sub-circuit includes: a delay output chip, a second switching element, and a fourth resistor; The first end of the fourth resistor is electrically connected to the positive terminal of the first port, and the second end of the fourth resistor is electrically connected to the control electrode of the first switching element. The power supply pin of the delay output chip is electrically connected to the third terminal of the voltage divider circuit, the output pin of the delay output chip is electrically connected to the control electrode of the second switching element, and the ground pin of the delay output chip is electrically connected to the negative terminal of the first port. The first electrode of the second switching element is electrically connected to the control electrode of the first switching element, and the second electrode of the second switching element is electrically connected to the negative electrode of the first port.

7. The soft-start circuit according to claim 5 or 6, characterized in that, The control sub-circuit further includes: a third resistor, the first end of which is electrically connected to the output pin of the delay output chip; When the switch sub-circuit is electrically connected to the negative terminal of the first port and the negative terminal of the second port, the second end of the third resistor is electrically connected to the control electrode of the first switch element. When the switch sub-circuit is electrically connected to the positive terminal of the first port and the positive terminal of the second port, the second end of the third resistor is electrically connected to the control electrode of the second switch element.

8. The soft-start circuit according to claim 2, characterized in that, The clamping sub-circuit includes: A Zener diode, wherein the first terminal of the Zener diode is electrically connected to the input terminal of the control sub-circuit, and the second terminal of the Zener diode is electrically connected to the negative terminal of the first port.

9. The soft-start circuit according to claim 2, characterized in that, The soft-start circuit also includes: A voltage regulator circuit, wherein the first terminal of the voltage regulator circuit is electrically connected to the positive terminal of the second port, and the second terminal of the voltage regulator circuit is electrically connected to the negative terminal of the second port; The voltage regulator circuit is used to maintain the stability of the output voltage at the second port.

10. The soft-start circuit according to claim 9, characterized in that, The voltage regulator circuit includes: a first capacitor, and / or, a second capacitor; The first capacitor is a polarized capacitor; the positive terminal of the first capacitor is electrically connected to the positive terminal of the second port, and the negative terminal of the first capacitor is electrically connected to the negative terminal of the second port. The second capacitor is a non-polar capacitor; the first plate of the second capacitor is electrically connected to the positive terminal of the second port, and the second plate of the second capacitor is electrically connected to the negative terminal of the second port.

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