Flyback Converter Feedback Loop Selection for Light-Load Power Reduction

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional flyback converters face significant power consumption issues during light-load or no-load conditions due to the continuous operation of the output regulation circuit, which is a major component of overall power consumption, especially in AC/DC adapter systems where most time is spent in these conditions.

Innovation Solution

A flyback converter system that selectively uses either a primary feedback signal or a secondary side feedback signal based on load conditions, with a loop selector choosing between the two to control the switch unit via a PWM control unit, disabling the secondary feedback loop in light-load conditions to reduce power consumption.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If the secondary feedback loop is continuously operated to ensure accurate output regulation, then output voltage stability is improved, but power consumption increases during light-load or no-load conditions

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveoutput voltage stabilityVSAvoidpower consumption
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSUse of energy by moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements dynamic feedback loop selection by switching between primary and secondary feedback loops based on load conditions. The controller activates the secondary feedback loop during full-load conditions for precise output regulation, and switches to the primary feedback loop during light-load or no-load conditions to reduce power consumption. This dynamic adaptation resolves the contradiction between maintaining voltage stability and reducing energy usage.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The patent changes the feedback signal source parameter based on operating conditions. By monitoring load current or power consumption thresholds, the system transitions between different feedback modes: using the secondary feedback signal (Vfb2) when load exceeds a threshold for accurate regulation, and switching to the primary feedback signal (Vfb1) when load falls below the threshold to minimize power consumption. This parameter change strategy directly addresses the contradiction.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

2Use of energy by moving object

If the secondary feedback loop is disabled to reduce power consumption during light-load conditions, then power consumption is reduced, but output regulation accuracy and dynamic response deteriorate

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvepower consumptionVSAvoidoutput regulation accuracy
Core Design Contradiction:
Use of energy by moving objectVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The system dynamically adjusts feedback loop configuration based on real-time load conditions. During light-load or no-load operations, the primary feedback loop is activated to maintain adequate output regulation while consuming less power. When load increases beyond a threshold, the system transitions to the secondary feedback loop for enhanced regulation accuracy. This dynamic switching ensures both power efficiency and regulation quality are maintained appropriately for each operating condition.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The patent implements parameter-based feedback selection where the feedback mode changes based on load current or power thresholds. The controller monitors system state and switches between feedback signals (Vfb1 for light-load, Vfb2 for full-load) to optimize the balance between power consumption and output regulation accuracy. This parameter change approach ensures the system adapts its regulation strategy to match actual operational requirements.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

3Adaptability or versatility

If both primary and secondary feedback loops operate simultaneously to provide comprehensive control, then system control capability is improved, but device complexity and power consumption increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesystem control capabilityVSAvoidfeedback loop configuration
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements dynamic feedback loop selection rather than simultaneous operation of both loops. The controller switches between primary and secondary feedback loops based on load conditions, activating only the appropriate loop for current operating requirements. This dynamic approach maintains comprehensive control capability while avoiding the complexity and power consumption associated with running both loops continuously.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The system uses parameter-based selection to determine which feedback loop to activate. By monitoring load current or power consumption thresholds, the controller selects the appropriate feedback signal source (Vfb1 or Vfb2) and configures the feedback path accordingly. This parameter-driven configuration provides versatile control capability while maintaining simple circuit operation at any given moment, avoiding the complexity of simultaneous dual-loop operation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

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 system achieves accurate output regulation and fast dynamic response during full-load conditions while minimizing power consumption in light-load or no-load conditions by switching between primary and secondary feedback signals, thereby reducing overall energy usage.

Implementation Method 1

a primary feedback loop unit electrically connected to the auxiliary winding and generating a primary feedback voltage signal according to an induced voltage of the auxiliary winding

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElectromagnetic induction: Electromagnetic Induction

Implementation Method 2

a transformer unit comprising a primary winding, a secondary winding and an auxiliary winding, which are magnetically coupled to each other

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectMagnetic coupling: Electromagnetic Induction

Data Source

PatentUS8804379B2Flyback converter system and feedback controlling apparatus and method for the same
Publication Date: 2014.08.12 POWER FOREST TECH
  • US8804379B2 patent drawing
  • US8804379B2 patent drawing
  • US8804379B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A flyback converter system and feedback controlling apparatus and method of operating the same are disclosed. The feedback controlling apparatus for the flyback converter system includes a primary feedback loop unit for generating a primary feedback signal, and a secondary feedback loop unit for generating a secondary feedback signal, a loop selector. In light-load conditions, the loop selector supplies the primary feedback signal to a PWM controller for feedback control, and the secondary feedback loop unit is disabled by a power monitor to save electrical energy.