Input Voltage Detection in Transformer-Based Power Converters
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing converter systems face inaccuracies in input voltage detection due to voltage drops across components and filters, leading to incorrect measurement of input voltage, especially in pulsed current drawing switched-mode power supplies.
Innovation Solution
A method and device that determine the voltage drop across the primary side of a transformer and additional voltage drops across components, combining these with current measurements to accurately calculate the input voltage, using a control unit and transformer with an auxiliary winding to compensate for resistances and inductors, and an adaptive gain amplifier for improved resolution.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If voltage is measured directly at the primary side of the transformer, then the measurement is simple, but the measurement accuracy is poor due to voltage drops across components and filters
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary measurement approach by measuring voltage drops across individual components (transformer primary winding, switching element, input filter) separately and summing them to determine the total input voltage. This mediator method (component-wise voltage drop measurement) resolves the contradiction by providing accurate input voltage measurement without directly measuring at the distorted primary side.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent segments the input voltage measurement into multiple separate voltage drop measurements across different components (transformer primary winding voltage drop, switching element voltage drop, input filter voltage drop). By dividing the measurement task into segments and summing the results, the system achieves high measurement accuracy while accounting for all voltage losses in the circuit.
2Productivity
If switched-mode power supply draws pulsed current, then the power conversion efficiency is improved, but the voltage drop across input filter and cables increases causing measurement inaccuracy
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements feedback by continuously monitoring the voltage drops across the input filter and other components, and using this information to compensate for the measurement errors. The control unit adjusts the input voltage detection based on the measured voltage drops, creating a feedback loop that maintains accurate measurement despite the pulsed current causing variable voltage drops.
3Measurement precision
If voltage drops across components are compensated, then the input voltage measurement accuracy is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies self-service by using the system's own existing components and measurements to compensate for measurement errors. The control unit utilizes voltage drop measurements taken during normal operation to automatically compensate for the inaccuracies, making the compensation system self-contained and avoiding the need for additional external compensation devices.
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 enhances the accuracy of input voltage measurement, allowing for precise brown-out threshold detection and independent operation under various conditions, effectively addressing the inaccuracies in existing systems.
Implementation Method 1
a transformer and a switching element for conveying energy from a primary side of the transformer to a secondary side of the transformer
Implementation Method 2
A switching element is used for conveying energy from the primary side to the secondary side
Data Source
AI summary
An example relates to a method for operating a converter comprising a primary side of a transformer and a secondary side of the transformer, wherein a switching element is used for conveying energy from the primary side to the secondary side, the method comprising (i) determining a voltage drop across the primary side of the transformer; (ii) determining at least one additional voltage drop across at least one component of the converter's primary side; and (iii) determining an input voltage at the converter via the voltage drops.