Electronic Switch Transformer Isolation Power Loss Reduction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing electronic switches for low-voltage DC power distribution systems experience high power losses and complexity, particularly when using a charge pump, which makes them inefficient and costly.
Innovation Solution
Implementing an electronic switch with a converter circuit based on a switched-mode power supply, utilizing a transformer for galvanic isolation and a self-controlled converter principle, which eliminates the need for a charge pump and reduces power losses by using a MOSFET as the power transistor and an operational amplifier for control, with electronics for current limitation and overload protection.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Power
If a charge pump is used to supply voltage to the control device, then the power transistor can be activated, but power losses increase to 450-500 mW and circuit complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the charge pump (electromechanical voltage multiplication device) with a transformer-based isolated power supply system. The transformer couples the control circuit to the power stage through galvanic isolation, eliminating the need for charge pump components and reducing power losses from 450-500 mW to significantly lower levels while maintaining the ability to activate the power transistor.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a transformer as an intermediary component between the control device and the power transistor. This transformer provides galvanic isolation and voltage transformation, serving as a mediator that transfers energy and control signals without the high losses associated with charge pump circuits.
2Power
If a charge pump is used to supply voltage to the control device, then the power transistor can be activated, but circuit complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts and removes the charge pump from the circuit topology, eliminating the complex network of capacitors, diodes, and switching elements required for voltage multiplication. This extraction simplifies the overall circuit while the transformer-based isolation provides the necessary voltage transformation and isolation more efficiently.
Solution Approach 2:
The transformer serves multiple functions simultaneously: it provides galvanic isolation, performs voltage transformation, and enables control signal transmission. This multi-functionality replaces the multiple discrete components needed in a charge pump circuit, reducing overall circuit complexity while maintaining power transistor activation capability.
3Loss of energy
If galvanic isolation is implemented through a transformer, then power losses are reduced, but circuit complexity increases due to converter circuit requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the isolation function and voltage transformation function into a single transformer component. This consolidation achieves galvanic isolation with reduced power losses while avoiding the need for separate isolation circuits and voltage multiplication stages, thereby limiting the increase in overall circuit complexity.
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 solution achieves a significant reduction in power losses by approximately 50% and simplifies the circuit design, making the electronic switch more efficient and cost-effective, while maintaining functionality as an electronic circuit breaker.
Implementation Method 1
a converter circuit with galvanic isolation in the form of a transformer
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
AI summary
The invention relates to an electronic switch (1) for switching a load (7), having a current path (3) which runs between an operating voltage connection (5) and a load connection (6a) and to which a power transistor (2) and a current sensor (4) sensing the load current (IL) are connected, and having a control or regulating device (8, 9) which controls the power transistor (2) on the basis of the load current (IL), wherein the control or regulating device (8, 9) is connected to the secondary circuit (15) of a converter circuit (12) having a transformer (13), the primary circuit (14) of which is connected to the operating voltage connection (5) via a controlled switch arrangement (19, 20).