Multiple Full-Bridge Rectifiers for AC Power Conversion

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing power supply systems for devices like LEDs and motors often require multiple components and high power consumption, and lack efficiency and modularity to drive different types of loads effectively, especially when operating from an AC power source.

Innovation Solution

The use of multiple full-bridge rectifiers connected in series to convert AC to DC, allowing for efficient power delivery to both AC and DC loads, with modular design for redundancy and easy maintenance, and the ability to drive multiple loads with a low number of components.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Loss of energy

If multiple rectifiers are connected in series to drive multiple DC loads, then power delivery efficiency improves, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvepower consumptionVSAvoidcircuit complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Loss of energyVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The power supply system is segmented into multiple independent rectifier modules, where each rectifier handles a specific DC load. This segmentation allows each module to operate independently and efficiently, reducing overall power loss while maintaining manageable complexity through modular design. Each rectifier module can be optimized separately for its specific load requirements.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The system employs dynamic configuration where rectifiers can be selectively enabled or disabled based on load requirements. This dynamic approach allows the circuit to adapt its complexity level - using only the necessary number of rectifiers for current operating conditions, thereby reducing power consumption without permanently increasing device complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

2Adaptability or versatility

If multiple rectifiers are used to drive different DC loads, then adaptability improves, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveload driving capabilityVSAvoidcircuit complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

Each rectifier module is designed with universal functionality to handle different types of DC loads (LEDs, motors, etc.). The standardized interface and configuration allow the same rectifier design to serve multiple purposes, enhancing adaptability without proportionally increasing complexity. The modular universal design can be replicated and combined for various load combinations.

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

Solution Approach 2:

The system divides the power supply into segmented rectifier modules, each capable of independently driving different DC loads. This segmentation provides adaptability by allowing selective activation of specific modules based on load requirements, while keeping overall complexity manageable through the repetitive, standardized nature of each segment.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

3Loss of energy

If series connection of rectifiers is implemented, then power delivery efficiency improves, but ease of operation decreases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvepower consumptionVSAvoidcircuit configuration
Core Design Contradiction:
Loss of energyVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The series connection configuration is made dynamic and adjustable rather than fixed. Rectifier modules can be selectively enabled or disabled based on operational requirements, allowing the system to optimize power delivery efficiency only when full series connection is needed, while simplifying operation when fewer modules are active. This dynamic approach balances efficiency gains with operational ease.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

4Productivity

If multiple rectifiers are used to increase lumen output, then productivity improves, but use of energy increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvelumen outputVSAvoidpower consumption
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSUse of energy by moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The system implements partial action by enabling only the necessary number of rectifier modules to achieve the required lumen output level. Rather than always operating all rectifiers at full capacity, the system activates the minimum number needed for current productivity requirements, thereby improving lumen output only when necessary while reducing overall energy consumption during lower-demand periods.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #16Partial or excessive 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

This solution enhances efficiency, reduces power consumption, and provides modularity, allowing for increased lumen output and flexibility in driving various light sources and loads, while simplifying the circuit design and enabling easy replacement of modules.

Implementation Method 1

a rectifier to convert AC input to DC output that drives a DC load

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectRectification: Diode

Data Source

PatentUS10602574B2Driver circuits with multiple rectifiers
Publication Date: 2020.03.24 NEW ENERGIES & ALTERNATIVE TECH INC
  • US10602574B2 patent drawing
  • US10602574B2 patent drawing
  • US10602574B2 patent drawing

AI summary

In some implementations, a device includes a first full bridge rectifier configured to receive power from an alternating current (AC) power source, the first full bridge rectifier having direct current (DC) output nodes, a second full bridge rectifier configured to receive power from the AC power source, the second full bridge rectifier having DC output nodes, wherein the second full bridge rectifier is coupled to receive AC power in series with the first full bridge rectifier, a first set of light emitting diodes coupled to the DC output nodes of the first full bridge rectifier, and a second set of light emitting diodes coupled to the DC output nodes of the second full bridge rectifier.