AC/DC Converter Circuit Handling 347 Vrms Input

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional AC/DC converters, such as switching power supplies, are limited by a maximum input voltage of 240 Vrms AC and often require numerous components, making them unsuitable for higher voltage regions like Canada and costly to maintain.

Innovation Solution

An AC/DC converter circuit design that includes a diode, a transistor, a zener diode, a resistor, and a capacitor, capable of converting AC input voltages above 265 Vrms to a stable DC output voltage, utilizing a MOSFET transistor and zener diodes to clamp the output voltage at a consistent level.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Use of energy by moving object

If a conventional switching power supply is used, then the conversion efficiency is improved, but the maximum input voltage is limited to 240 Vrms AC

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveconversion efficiencyVSAvoidinput voltage range
Core Design Contradiction:
Use of energy by moving objectVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The patent changes the operating parameters of the transistor by using a zener diode to clamp the gate-source voltage, enabling the device to handle higher input voltages (up to 347 Vrms) while maintaining efficient conversion. This parameter adjustment allows the converter to adapt to higher voltage regions without sacrificing efficiency.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

2Use of energy by moving object

If a conventional switching power supply is used, then the conversion efficiency is improved, but the number of components increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveconversion efficiencyVSAvoidnumber of components
Core Design Contradiction:
Use of energy by moving objectVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent merges multiple functions into fewer components. The zener diode serves both as a voltage reference and a protective element, while the transistor replaces what would traditionally require multiple discrete components in conventional switching power supplies. This consolidation reduces the overall component count while maintaining high conversion efficiency.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The transistor in the patent performs multiple functions: it acts as the main switching element, provides voltage regulation through zener diode clamping, and enables high-voltage operation. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate components that would otherwise be required in conventional designs.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

3Adaptability or versatility

If the AC input voltage is increased above 265 Vrms, then the adaptability to higher voltage regions is improved, but the output voltage stability deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveinput voltage rangeVSAvoidoutput voltage stability
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSStability of the object's composition

Solution Approach 1:

The zener diode provides a feedback mechanism by clamping the gate-source voltage of the transistor. This feedback control ensures that the transistor operates in a controlled manner even when the input voltage varies up to 347 Vrms, thereby maintaining stable DC output voltage across different input conditions.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

Applied Scientific Principles

This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.

Function Achieved in This Case

The circuit effectively converts AC input voltages up to 347 Vrms to a stable DC output voltage of approximately 180 V, reducing component count and ensuring stability across varying load conditions.

Implementation Method 1

a zener diode electrically connected between the gate and the source of the transistor

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectZener breakdown: Avalanche Breakdown

Implementation Method 2

a capacitor electrically connected in parallel with the resistor

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectCapacitance: Capacitance

Implementation Method 3

a diode electrically connected to a line input from the AC power source

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectRectification: Diode

Data Source

PatentUS9973106B2Wide range AC/DC converter circuit
Publication Date: 2018.05.15 EATON INTELLIGENT POWER LTD
  • US9973106B2 patent drawing
  • US9973106B2 patent drawing

AI summary

An electric circuit for use with an AC power source includes a diode electrically connected to a line input from the AC power source, a transistor having a gate, a drain, and a source, wherein the drain is electrically connected to the diode, a zener diode electrically connected between the gate and the source of the transistor, a resistor electrically connected between the drain of the transistor and a neutral input from the AC power source, and a capacitor electrically connected in parallel with the resistor.