Multi-Transformer Switching Power Supply for Stepped Voltage Output
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing switching power supply devices face challenges in easily setting the voltage to be supplied to a smoothing circuit at multiple levels, leading to increased component costs and device size due to complex circuit configurations.
Innovation Solution
The proposed switching power supply device incorporates a configuration with a full-bridge or center-tap rectifying and smoothing circuit, utilizing a driving circuit to control the inverter circuits and transformers, allowing the input voltage to be set at multiple levels with reduced component count and size by applying predetermined pulse voltages or voltage values to primary-side windings.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a complex circuit configuration is used to set voltage at multiple levels, then voltage control capability is improved, but device size and component costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the voltage control function into discrete segments by providing multiple selectable input voltages (first input voltage and second input voltage) that can be independently chosen based on output requirements. The switching element selectively connects different input voltage sources, segmenting the voltage selection process into manageable discrete choices rather than requiring continuous complex control.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements dynamic voltage selection by using a switching element that can change connection states in real-time based on control signals. The controller dynamically selects which input voltage to apply to the smoothing circuit depending on the required output voltage level, enabling adaptive voltage control without fixed complex circuitry.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple voltage levels are supported, then adaptability is improved, but component count increases
Solution Approach 1:
The switching element serves multiple functions: it acts as a voltage selector, a circuit controller, and a power management component. By using this single multi-functional switching element, the patent achieves multiple voltage level support without needing separate dedicated components for each voltage selection function, thereby reducing overall component count.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges the voltage selection logic and voltage switching function into a single integrated control system. The controller combines multiple control functions (voltage level selection, switching timing, and power management) into one unit, reducing the need for separate control circuits and components that would otherwise be required.
3Ease of operation
If voltage selection is simplified, then ease of operation is improved, but voltage control precision may deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the operational parameters of the switching element based on the desired output voltage. By adjusting which input voltage source is selected and when the switching element operates, the system achieves precise voltage control. The controller modifies switching timing and duration parameters to maintain precision while keeping the selection interface simple.
Solution Approach 2:
The controller monitors output voltage conditions and adjusts switching element operation accordingly. This feedback mechanism ensures that even with simplified voltage selection, the actual output voltage remains precise by dynamically adjusting switching parameters based on real-time voltage measurements and load conditions.
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 enables multiple-level output with reduced component costs and device size, facilitating easier generation of voltage levels compared to existing devices, while maintaining efficient voltage control and stability.
Implementation Method 1
a switching element that switches a connection state between a first input terminal and a second input terminal in response to a control signal
Implementation Method 2
a smoothing circuit that smooths a voltage supplied from the switching element
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3(A)~4(E)
AI summary
A switching power supply device (1, 1A, or 1B) includes a pair of input terminals (T1 and T2), a pair of output terminals (T3 and T4), N number (N: an integer of 2 or greater) of transformers (31 to 3n), N number of inverter circuits (2 (21 and 22) or 2B (21 to 2n)), a rectifying and smoothing circuit (4 or 4A), and a driver (5). The transformers (31 to 3n) include respective primary-side windings (311 to 3n1) and respective secondary-side windings(312 (312a and 312b) to 3n2). The inverter circuits (2 (21 and 22) or 2B (21 to 2n)) are disposed in parallel between the pair of input terminals (T1 and T2) and the primary-side windings (311 to 3nl) and each include switching elements (S1 to S4). The rectifying and smoothing circuit (4 or 4A) is disposed between the pair of output terminals (T3 and T4) and the secondary-side windings (312 (312a and 312b) to 3n2) and includes a rectifying circuit and a smoothing circuit. The driver (5) sets an input voltage (Vin) to be supplied to the smoothing circuit at successive stage levels (N + 1) by causing, through switching driving, the inverter circuits (2 (21 and 22) or 2B (21 to 2n)) to apply a predetermined pulse voltage or a voltage at a predetermined voltage value (Va or Vb) to the respective primary-side windings (311 to 3n1).