Integrated Power Converter Circuit for Reducing Standby Energy Waste
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current electrical power circuits for consumer devices are inefficient due to the use of multiple transformers and components, leading to significant energy waste in the form of heat and increased costs, particularly in devices like televisions which require multiple power supply modules, resulting in high energy consumption and costs associated with 'vampire loads' and standby power.
Innovation Solution
An electrical circuit that includes a power converter with a transformer and a switching device, coupled with a controller to adjust voltage levels, and a quasi-resonant circuit with MOSFETs and synchronous rectification, which reduces energy waste by optimizing power delivery and disconnecting power when devices are fully charged or disconnected, thereby minimizing standby power consumption.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Power
If multiple transformers and power supply modules are used in electrical power circuits, then power delivery capability is improved, but energy waste increases and efficiency decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple power supply functions into a single integrated power supply module that can deliver multiple voltage outputs simultaneously. This merging approach eliminates the need for separate transformers for each voltage level, reducing energy waste while maintaining the ability to provide multiple power outputs for different components.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements a universal power supply module capable of providing multiple voltage levels (e.g., 12V, 5V, 3.3V) through a single transformer using tap points. This multi-functional design allows one power supply to serve multiple purposes, improving power delivery capability without proportionally increasing energy waste.
2Power
If multiple transformers and components are used in power circuits, then power delivery capability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple power supply circuits into a single integrated module where one transformer provides multiple voltage outputs through different tap points. This consolidation reduces the number of components and simplifies the circuit architecture while maintaining the capability to deliver multiple power levels.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a universal power supply module that can deliver multiple voltage levels simultaneously through a single transformer design. This multi-functional approach reduces device complexity by eliminating redundant components while preserving comprehensive power delivery capability.
3Ease of operation
If power is continuously supplied to charged devices, then device readiness is improved, but standby power consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements periodic monitoring of device charge status and automatically disconnects power supply when the device is fully charged or disconnected. This periodic action eliminates continuous power draw during standby conditions while maintaining device readiness by quickly restoring power when needed.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses feedback mechanisms to monitor device charge status and control power supply accordingly. When the device reaches full charge or is disconnected, the system receives feedback and automatically stops power delivery, eliminating wasteful standby consumption while maintaining readiness to resume power supply.
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 significantly reduces energy waste by improving efficiency in power delivery and automatically disconnecting power from devices when not in use, leading to lower energy consumption and costs, while maintaining reliable operation.
Implementation Method 1
a transformer and a switching device coupled to a primary side of the transformer for delivering power from the electrical power source to a primary side of the transformer
Implementation Method 2
A controller is coupled to the voltage sensor and the switching device for receiving the sensed voltage level from the voltage sensor and transmitting a control signal to the switching device to adjust the voltage level of power being delivered to the electronic device
Data Source
AI summary
An electrical circuit for providing electrical power for use in powering electronic devices is described herein. The electrical circuit includes a power converter circuit that is electrically coupled to an electrical power source for receiving alternating current (AC) input power from the electrical source and delivering direct current (DC) output power to an electronic device. The power converter circuit includes a transformer and a switching device coupled to a primary side of the transformer for delivering power from the electrical power source to a primary side of the transformer. A controller is coupled to a voltage sensor and the switching device for receiving the sensed voltage level from the voltage sensor and transmitting a control signal to the switching device to adjust the voltage level of power being delivered to the electronic device.