Dual Range Power Supply Relay Reconfiguration
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing power supply circuits for motor vehicle electronic subassemblies are either complex and expensive due to their need to accommodate both 12 volt and 24 volt systems, and they often generate undesirable RF noise.
Innovation Solution
A relay-driven power supply circuit that reconfigures the load by using two series strings of LEDs and equivalent current sources, with a threshold voltage detector to switch between configurations for 12 volt and 24 volt systems, ensuring efficient current regulation and minimizing RF noise.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If switching power supplies are used to accommodate wide voltage ranges, then adaptability is improved, but device complexity and RF noise generation worsen
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of transforming the input voltage to match the load (conventional switching power supply approach), this patent inverts the approach by reconfiguring the load (LED strings) to match the input voltage. The relay switches between series and parallel connections of LED strings based on detected voltage level, eliminating the need for complex switching power supply circuitry while maintaining voltage range compatibility.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the electronic switching mechanism (transistor-based switching power supply) with a mechanical relay system. The relay physically reconfigures the LED string connections based on voltage detection, substituting complex high-speed electronic switching with a simpler, slower mechanical switching action that generates less RF noise and costs less.
2Adaptability or versatility
If switching power supplies are used to accommodate wide voltage ranges, then adaptability is improved, but RF noise generation worsens
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of transforming the input voltage to match the load (conventional switching power supply approach), this patent inverts the approach by reconfiguring the load (LED strings) to match the input voltage. The relay switches between series and parallel connections of LED strings based on detected voltage level, eliminating the need for complex switching power supply circuitry while maintaining voltage range compatibility.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the electronic switching mechanism (transistor-based switching power supply) with a mechanical relay system. The relay physically reconfigures the LED string connections based on voltage detection, substituting complex high-speed electronic switching with a simpler, slower mechanical switching action that generates less RF noise and costs less.
3Device complexity
If separate power supplies are produced for each voltage range, then power supply simplicity is improved, but adaptability worsens
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a universal power supply circuit that can operate with both 12V and 24V inputs by incorporating a relay-based reconfiguration mechanism. The same basic circuit topology (LED strings with current regulation) serves multiple voltage ranges, eliminating the need for separate dedicated power supplies while maintaining circuit simplicity through modular design.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces dynamic reconfiguration capability to the power supply circuit through the relay system. The circuit automatically adapts its configuration based on the detected input voltage level, transitioning between different LED string arrangements (series for 24V, parallel for 12V) to maintain optimal operation across varying voltage conditions.
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 provides a simple, cost-effective solution that is compatible with both voltage ranges, reducing RF noise and ensuring efficient operation by matching the load to the input voltage, thus preventing overheating and extending the lifespan of the components.
Implementation Method 1
employing a relay driven by a threshold voltage detector to reconfigure the load when the applied voltage exceeds a threshold voltage
Implementation Method 2
the relay remains in its de-energized state and the relay contacts connect each string of LEDs between the input voltage and a current regulator. When the circuit is connected to a 24 VDC electrical system, the input voltage exceeds the threshold voltage and the circuit energizes the relay, re-configuring the circuit
Implementation Method 3
the load being driven includes two series strings of light emitting diodes (LEDs)
Implementation Method 4
the LEDs drop most of the input voltage, with the remainder dropped across a field effect transistor (FET) or bipolar transistor, which regulates current through the LEDs
Data Source
AI summary
The disclosed power supply is compatible with two voltage ranges, the midpoint or mean of the higher voltage range being approximately double the midpoint or mean of the lower voltage range. Two equivalent loads and two current sources are re-configured using a relay in response to a detected input voltage exceeding a pre-determined threshold voltage. The disclosed circuit re-configures the load being driven to match the input voltage, rather than re-configuring the voltage to match the load.