Adapter Power Limit Control for Input Voltage and Thermal Load
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Solution Overview
Problem
Power adapters face inefficiencies in power transmission due to varying AC input voltages, leading to differing heat dissipation and temperature rises, which limits maximum output power capability.
Innovation Solution
A power control device and method that adjusts output power based on both temperature and input voltage signals, setting a maximum power limit as the smaller of two thresholds associated with temperature and voltage signals to optimize power release.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the power adapter is designed with a fixed rated power based on worst-case heat dissipation conditions (90 Vac input), then the device can operate stably under all input voltages, but the maximum output power capability is limited under better heat dissipation conditions (e.g., 230 Vac input)
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic power adjustment by enabling the power adapter to adaptively change its output power capability based on detected input voltage levels and temperature conditions. The control unit dynamically selects between a first power capability (lower power limit under low-voltage input) and a second power capability (higher power limit under high-voltage input), allowing the device to optimize performance for each operating condition rather than being constrained by worst-case scenarios.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the power output parameter based on input voltage and temperature conditions. The control unit monitors input voltage and adjusts the maximum output power capability accordingly - limiting power when input voltage is low (90 Vac) to prevent overheating, and allowing higher power when input voltage is high (230 Vac) where heat dissipation is more effective. This parameter adaptation resolves the contradiction between reliability and power capability.
2Loss of energy
If the power adapter operates at higher output power under high-voltage input (230 Vac), then the power transmission efficiency improves, but the temperature rise management becomes more challenging
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements feedback control by continuously monitoring temperature conditions and adjusting the maximum output power capability accordingly. The control unit receives temperature information and dynamically modifies the power limit to maintain efficient operation while preventing excessive temperature rise. This feedback mechanism allows the system to operate at higher power levels when temperature conditions permit, thereby improving overall power transmission efficiency.
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
Enables power adapters to maximize output power under varying input conditions by adaptively setting power limits, enhancing efficiency and temperature management.
Implementation Method 1
a power conversion unit having a primary circuit and a secondary circuit connected through a transformer
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure discloses a power control device and a power control method. The power control device comprises: a power conversion unit having a primary circuit and a secondary circuit connected through a transformer, the power conversion unit configured to receive an AC input voltage of an AC power source and convert the AC input voltage into an output voltage for a load; and a control unit configured to control an actual output power not to exceed a maximum power limit according to a temperature signal and an input voltage signal, wherein the maximum power limit is the smaller one between a first maximum power value and a second maximum power value, and the first maximum power value is associated with the temperature signal and the second maximum power value is associated with the input voltage signal.