Forward Converter Charge Pump for EMI-Isolated High-Voltage Output

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Solution Overview

Problem

Power supply systems for sensitive electronics, such as LEDs and non-volatile memories, are vulnerable to electromagnetic interference (EMI) from switching DC power sources, leading to reduced lifespan and potential damage.

Innovation Solution

A power supply configuration incorporating a switching DC power source, a forward converter, a frequency multiplier or divider, and a voltage multiplier, along with a filter and current controller, to isolate and regulate the power supply, reducing EMI and providing a stable high voltage with minimal ripple and loss.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Use of energy by moving object

If a switching DC power source is used to provide power, then power supply efficiency is improved, but electromagnetic interference is generated that damages sensitive electronics

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvepower supply efficiencyVSAvoidelectromagnetic interference
Core Design Contradiction:
Use of energy by moving objectVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

A forward converter is introduced as an intermediary component between the switching DC power source and the sensitive electronics. The forward converter isolates the sensitive load from the switching noise while efficiently transferring power, thus maintaining power supply efficiency while eliminating electromagnetic interference damage to the electronics

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The power supply system is segmented into distinct functional stages: a switching DC power source for efficient power conversion, a forward converter for isolation and voltage transformation, a filter for noise removal, and a voltage multiplier for final voltage adjustment. This segmentation allows each component to optimize its function while preventing EMI propagation to sensitive loads

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

2Object-affected harmful factors

If a forward converter and filter are added to reduce EMI, then electromagnetic interference is reduced, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveelectromagnetic interferenceVSAvoiddevice complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Object-affected harmful factorsVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The forward converter performs multiple functions simultaneously: it provides galvanic isolation between the switching power source and the load, transforms voltage levels, and filters out switching frequency noise. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate components, thereby limiting the increase in device complexity while effectively reducing electromagnetic interference

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

3Stress or pressure

If a voltage multiplier is used to increase output voltage, then output voltage is increased, but power loss increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveoutput voltageVSAvoidpower loss
Core Design Contradiction:
Stress or pressureVSLoss of energy

Solution Approach 1:

The voltage multiplier employs periodic switching action synchronized with the forward converter's output frequency. By using periodic charging and discharging of capacitors through diodes during each switching cycle, the voltage is multiplied efficiently with minimal resistive losses, as the current flows are pulsed rather than continuous, reducing I²R losses

Inventive Principle:
Principle #19Periodic action

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 effectively reduces electromagnetic interference, ensuring a longer lifespan for sensitive electronics by providing a stable and efficient power supply with reduced power loss and ripple, suitable for applications in various electronic devices.

Implementation Method 1

a forward converter coupled to the switching DC power source, wherein the forward converter outputs a first voltage and a second voltage

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElectromagnetic induction: Electromagnetic Induction

Implementation Method 2

a filter coupled to the forward converter and configured to receive the second voltage and output a third voltage, wherein the third voltage is filtered or smoothed to remove pulses introduced by the switching DC power source

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElectromagnetic filtering: Filter (electronic)

Implementation Method 3

a voltage multiplier coupled to the switch and configured to be driven by the switch, wherein the voltage multiplier receives the second voltage and outputs a fifth voltage that is greater than the second voltage

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectCapacitive energy storage and transfer: Capacitance

Data Source

PatentEP4475416A1System and method having a switching converter and self-switched charge pump configuration
Publication Date: 2024.12.11 GOODRICH LIGHTING SYSTEMS INC
  • EP4475416A1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP4475416A1 patent drawingFigure 2A
  • EP4475416A1 patent drawingFigure 2B

AI summary

A system for controlling power provided to an electronic device is disclosed herein. The system includes a switching direct current (DC) power source (202) configured to provide an input voltage at a first frequency, a forward converter (204) coupled to the switching DC power source (202), wherein the forward converter (204) outputs a first voltage and a second voltage, a frequency multiplier (208) coupled to the forward converter (204) and configured to receive the first voltage as an input, a switch (210) coupled to the frequency multiplier and configured to be driven by the frequency multiplier (208), wherein the switch (210) outputs a fourth voltage, and a voltage multiplier (212) coupled to the switch (210) and configured to be driven by the switch (210), wherein the voltage multiplier (212) receives the second voltage and outputs a fifth voltage that is greater than the second voltage.