Load Driver Using Single Converter for Power and Charge
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing drivers for loads, such as those described in WO 2013/090277 A1 and US 2012/0068601 A1, are complex and require a large number of components, which complicates their design and functionality, especially in scenarios where both normal and emergency power situations need to be managed efficiently.
Innovation Solution
A driver apparatus that includes a series arrangement of a load and a re-chargeable source for simultaneous powering and charging in normal situations, and a converter with a switch and inductor to convert source power for the load in emergency situations, reducing complexity and component count by using a single input signal for both purposes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a driver uses separate converters for charging energy storage and powering load, then power conversion functions are achieved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The converter is designed to perform multiple functions: it can convert input signal power to both charge the energy storage unit and power the load simultaneously. The same converter circuitry is used for both charging and powering operations, eliminating the need for separate converters and reducing overall device complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent combines the charging function and load powering function into a single integrated converter. By merging these two functions into one converter component, the driver structure is simplified while maintaining the ability to independently control charging current and load power delivery.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a driver uses multiple converters for charging and powering, then power management is achieved, but component quantity increases
Solution Approach 1:
A single converter is designed to handle both charging and load powering operations. This multi-functional converter reduces the total component count by eliminating redundant converter circuits, while still providing comprehensive power management capabilities through intelligent control of the same hardware resources.
3Device complexity
If the same output signal is used for both powering load and charging source, then device simplicity is achieved, but power regulation capability is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The converter operates in different modes dynamically: in charging mode, it regulates power to the energy storage unit; in powering mode, it regulates power to the load. The converter can switch between these modes and adjust its operation dynamically based on whether the input signal is present or absent, maintaining full power regulation capability despite using a single output path.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent segments the operation into distinct time periods or modes: during normal operation with input signal present, the converter charges the energy storage; during emergency operation with input signal absent, the converter powers the load from energy storage. This temporal segmentation allows the same hardware to provide different regulated power outputs for different functions.
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 results in a simpler, low-complexity driver that can efficiently manage power in both normal and emergency situations, providing robustness and fail-safety with fewer components, allowing for effective power regulation and charging.
Implementation Method 1
a converter configured to, in a second situation different from the first situation, convert a source signal from the source into a second output signal destined for the load
Implementation Method 2
an output configured to, in the first situation, provide a first output signal to a series arrangement of the load and a source, wherein the first output signal is configured to feed the load and to charge the source
Data Source
AI summary
In various embodiments, an apparatus for driving a load is disclosed. In one example, the apparatus comprises an input configured to, in a first state, receive an input signal, an output configured to, in the first state, provide a first output signal to a series arrangement of the load and a source, wherein the first output signal is configured to feed the load and to charge the source with input power provided via the input signal, and a converter configured to, in a second state different from the first state, convert a source signal from the source into a second output signal destined for the load, wherein the second output signal is configured to feed the load with source power provided by the source.