Multi-Output Power Supply Using Single Inductor and FET Control

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional multi-output power supply devices face challenges in efficiently configuring multiple power supplies from a high-voltage power source, often requiring large inductors and diodes, which can lead to increased size and production costs.

Innovation Solution

A multi-output power supply device configuration utilizing a full-bridge circuit, insulated transformer, rectifying circuit, smoothing inductor, and a single-inductor multiple-output (SIMO) type circuit, controlled by a microcomputer-based controller to manage phase-shift and duty cycles for PWM control, allowing for efficient voltage transformation and output adjustment.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If conventional multi-output power supply devices are configured from a high-voltage power supply, then multiple power supplies with different voltages can be generated, but the device size increases due to large inductors and diodes

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemulti-output voltage capabilityVSAvoiddevice size
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSVolume of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent merges multiple output voltage generations into a single integrated circuit architecture using one high-voltage power supply, one set of switching elements, and one smoothing inductor. The full-bridge circuit converts DC to AC, which then passes through a transformer to provide multiple isolated output voltages, eliminating the need for separate power supply circuits for each output.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The single high-voltage power supply and switching circuit serve multiple functions by generating different output voltages through the transformer's multiple secondary windings. The same circuit architecture provides multiple output voltages simultaneously, making the power supply device universal for different voltage requirements.

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

2Adaptability or versatility

If conventional multi-output power supply devices use large inductors and diodes, then multiple power supplies can be configured, but production costs increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemulti-output voltage capabilityVSAvoidproduction cost
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines multiple power supply functions into a single circuit design, reducing the total number of components required. By using one high-voltage power supply and one transformer with multiple secondary windings, the design eliminates redundant components that would increase manufacturing complexity and cost.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

3Use of energy by moving object

If a full-bridge circuit with insulated transformer is used, then efficient voltage transformation is achieved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvevoltage transformation efficiencyVSAvoidcircuit configuration
Core Design Contradiction:
Use of energy by moving objectVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent incorporates feedback control mechanisms where the controller monitors output voltages and adjusts the switching elements accordingly. This feedback ensures efficient voltage transformation and regulation while maintaining control over the complex full-bridge circuit operation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

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 configuration reduces the size of large inductors, decreases component count, and lowers production costs while enabling the generation of multiple power supplies with different voltages from a single high-voltage source, improving efficiency and marketability.

Implementation Method 1

an insulated transformer (30) that transforms a voltage of alternating-current power

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElectromagnetic induction: Electromagnetic Induction

Implementation Method 2

a rectifying circuit (40) that rectifies the alternating-current power transformed by the transformer (30) to the direct-current power

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectDiode rectification: Diode

Data Source

PatentEP3654516B1Power supply device
Publication Date: 2021.12.15 YAZAKI CORP
  • EP3654516B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP3654516B1 patent drawingFigure 2
  • EP3654516B1 patent drawingFigure 3

AI summary

In the power supply device (1), the insulated transformer (30) transforms the voltage of alternating-current power. The rectifying circuit (40) rectifies the alternating-current power transformed by the transformer (30) to direct-current power. The smoothing inductor (50) smooths the direct-current power rectified by the rectifying circuit (40). The first output terminal (71) outputs the direct-current power smoothed by the smoothing inductor (50). The second output terminal (72) is a terminal different from the first output terminal (71) and outputs the direct-current power smoothed by the smoothing inductor (50). An FET (Q5) is provided between the smoothing inductor (50) and the first output terminal (71) and adjusts a current output from the smoothing inductor (50) to the first output terminal (71). An FET (Q6) is provided between the smoothing inductor (50) and the second output terminal (72) and adjusts a current output from the smoothing inductor (50) to the second output terminal (72). The controller (80) controls the FET (Q5) and the FET (Q6).