Dynamic Power Supply Voltage Control for Load Adaptation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing power supply control systems face inefficiencies in setting output voltage, leading to excessive power dissipation and prolonged settling times when dealing with varying loads, as they are typically set based on maximum load conditions rather than actual load requirements.
Innovation Solution
A converter system with a measuring circuit and controller that determines the remote load and sets the output voltage based on the actual load and a predetermined maximum current, using a DC-DC converter and analog-to-digital converters to dynamically adjust the power supply voltage, allowing for real-time adaptation and user-programmable compliance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If the power supply compliance voltage is set to cover the whole load range based on maximum load, then the power supply can handle any load condition, but excess power is dissipated on the power controller and housing
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic power supply control where the compliance voltage is continuously adjusted based on the actual measured load conditions. The controller monitors the remote load resistance and modulates the power supply voltage in real-time, transitioning from fixed static voltage to dynamic adaptive voltage that matches actual requirements, thereby eliminating excess power dissipation while maintaining full load range coverage
Solution Approach 2:
The system employs feedback control by measuring the actual remote load conditions and using this information to adjust the power supply compliance voltage. The controller receives feedback about the load state and modifies the output voltage accordingly, creating a closed-loop system that optimizes power delivery and minimizes energy waste while ensuring adequate power supply for any load within the operational range
2Loss of energy
If a DC-DC boost converter is used to dynamically modulate the power supply voltage, then power consumption is reduced, but the settling time of the current output becomes very large when driving into high load values
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by pre-calculating and storing optimal compliance voltage values for different load conditions in a lookup table or memory structure. When the load changes, the system quickly retrieves the pre-determined voltage setting rather than computing it in real-time, enabling fast response and short settling time while maintaining the energy efficiency of dynamic voltage adjustment
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses partial action by applying dynamic voltage modulation only when necessary based on detected load changes, rather than continuously adjusting. For small or gradual load variations, the system maintains the current voltage setting, avoiding unnecessary DC-DC converter switching that would increase settling time, while still achieving energy savings during significant load transitions
3Reliability
If the power supply voltage is set to VOUTmin plus headroom voltage, then compliance requirements are met, but the power supply cannot adapt to varying actual load conditions
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transforms the static fixed voltage setting into a dynamic adaptive system that continuously adjusts the compliance voltage based on actual load measurements. The system maintains reliability by ensuring the voltage never falls below the minimum required VOUTmin + headroom, while simultaneously achieving adaptability by optimizing the voltage level for each specific load condition, eliminating both excess power dissipation and compliance violations
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
This approach reduces power dissipation and significantly shortens settling times by ensuring the power supply only delivers the necessary voltage for the actual load, improving efficiency and responsiveness.
Implementation Method 1
determine a remote load coupled to the converter based on a known current output applied to the remote load and measurements received from the measuring circuit
Implementation Method 2
using an on-board DC-DC boost converter to modulate the power supply as needed
Data Source
AI summary
Controlling the output voltage of a power supply involve determining a remote load coupled to the power supply and setting the output voltage based on the determined remote load and a predetermined maximum current for the power supply. The remote load may be measured, for example, by applying a predetermined current to the load, measuring the voltage across the load, and computing the effective load (resistance) value based on the supplied current and the measured voltage. Such measurement may be done using an analog-to-digital converter.