Dynamic Power Supply Current Limiting via Ambient Temperature
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional power supplies set current limits based on worst-case ambient temperature scenarios, leading to inefficient power usage and potential overheating, as they do not account for actual ambient temperature variations, which can result in inadequate power supply for modern systems with increased power demands.
Innovation Solution
A system and method that utilize a legacy temperature sensor to measure intake air flow temperature, allowing for dynamic adjustment of current consumption by computing a maximal current based on actual ambient temperature readings, and using control logic to limit current draw through CPU clock throttling or voltage reduction, ensuring safe operation while allowing higher current usage during lower temperatures.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If current limit is set to maximal value based on worst case ambient temperature, then power supply safety is ensured, but power supply efficiency deteriorates and current consumption is restricted unnecessarily
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by transitioning from a static current limit (fixed at worst-case temperature) to a dynamic current limit that adjusts in real-time based on actual ambient temperature measurements. The controller continuously monitors temperature and modifies the current limit parameter accordingly, allowing the system to operate at optimal current levels for each temperature condition while maintaining safety margins.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements parameter changes by modifying the current limit parameter as a function of ambient temperature. Instead of using a single fixed parameter value, the system adjusts the current limit parameter dynamically based on measured temperature conditions, enabling higher current consumption when temperatures are lower and safer operation when temperatures rise.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If current limit is reduced for safety, then overheating is prevented, but power supply performance and available power deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies feedback by implementing a closed-loop control system that continuously measures ambient temperature and uses this information to adjust the current limit. The controller receives temperature feedback from sensors and dynamically modifies the current limit parameter to maintain safe operating temperatures while maximizing available power at each moment, rather than using a conservative fixed limit.
Solution Approach 2:
The system transitions from static safety margins to dynamic safety management by continuously adjusting the current limit based on real-time temperature conditions. This allows the system to operate closer to safety boundaries when conditions permit, thereby maximizing power output while maintaining protective margins when needed.
3Device complexity
If fixed current limit is used for simplicity, then device complexity is reduced, but adaptability to different temperature conditions deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent achieves universality by enabling a single power supply system to adapt to multiple temperature conditions through dynamic parameter adjustment. The same power supply can operate efficiently across a wide range of ambient temperatures by continuously adjusting its current limit, making it universally applicable to varying environmental conditions without requiring multiple specialized power supplies.
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements self-service by automatically monitoring its own operating conditions and adjusting its parameters without external intervention. The controller continuously measures ambient temperature and autonomously modifies the current limit to optimize performance, eliminating the need for manual configuration or external control systems.
Data Source
AI summary
A personal computer or other electronic device may be powered by an external power supply and may have a legacy ambient temperature sensor e.g. because a fan whose speed is controlled by a controller, uses as an input, inter alia, ambient air temperature received from the legacy temperature sensor which may be disposed adjacent the fan. A controller may be provided which limits the current based on ambient air temperature reading/s flowing out of the sensor thereby to optimize power consumption relative to conventional “worst-case-assumption based” control of the current, in which current supplied is limited, mindful of a pre-set worst-case temperature assessment, to an un-necessarily low level of current.