AC-DC Converter Standby Power Reduction via Relay Control

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Solution Overview

Problem

Electronic devices face challenges in efficiently managing power consumption, particularly in standby modes, as users need to manually control mechanical switches to block power supply, leading to inconvenience and increased power usage.

Innovation Solution

Incorporating a power supply device with an AC-DC converter and a connection circuit that selectively connects the external power source based on the device's operating mode, using a relay to disconnect power in standby mode and activate it when needed, thereby reducing standby power consumption.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Loss of energy

If a mechanical switch is used to manually block power supply, then power consumption can be reduced, but user convenience deteriorates due to the need for continuous monitoring and manual control

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvestandby power consumptionVSAvoiduser convenience

Core Design Contradiction:

Loss of energyVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The system automatically monitors its own operating state and controls the connection circuit accordingly, eliminating the need for user intervention. The processor detects standby mode and automatically deactivates the connection circuit, allowing the system to manage its own power consumption without user involvement.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The system implements a feedback mechanism where the processor continuously monitors the operating state and adjusts the connection circuit status accordingly. When standby mode is detected, the processor sends a control signal to deactivate the connection circuit, creating a closed-loop control system that responds to changing conditions.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #23Feedback

2Speed

If the connection circuit is always active to ensure immediate power supply, then system responsiveness is improved, but standby power consumption increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvesystem responsivenessVSAvoidstandby power consumption

Core Design Contradiction:

SpeedVSUse of energy by stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

The connection circuit transitions from a static always-on state to a dynamic state that changes based on operating conditions. The circuit is activated when power supply is needed and deactivated during standby mode, making the system adaptable to different operational requirements and reducing unnecessary energy consumption.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The connection circuit operates periodically rather than continuously, being activated only when the processor determines power supply is needed and deactivated during standby periods. This periodic operation reduces energy consumption while maintaining system responsiveness when required.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #19Periodic action

Data Source

PatentUS11460909B2Device for reducing standby power and electronic device therefor

Publication Date: 2022.10.04 SAMSUNG ELECTRONICS CO LTD

AI summary

Disclosed are a device and a method for reducing standby power consumption in an electronic device. An electronic device includes a power supply device for supplying power for driving the electronic device; and a system device driven on the basis of the power supplied from the power supply device, wherein the power supply device can include a AC-DC converter for converting alternating current power received from an external power device into direct current power; and a connection circuit for selectively connecting the external power device and the direct current converter on the basis of an operation mode of the electronic device. Other embodiments can be possible.