Parallelized Power Supply Structure for Wide Load Efficiency
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Solution Overview
Problem
Switched-mode power supplies for desktop and workstation computers face efficiency challenges, particularly in wide load ranges, due to cross regulation issues and heat dissipation problems, leading to energy waste and inefficiency.
Innovation Solution
A parallelized power supply structure incorporating a multi-outputs converter and a single-output converter, where the multi-outputs converter operates under current-limiting conditions and the single-output converter takes over when load exceeds rated power, optimizing power distribution and reducing heat dissipation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If a single transformer is used to bear the whole output power, then the device complexity is reduced, but the heat dissipation difficulty increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the single transformer into multiple parallel transformers (first transformer and second transformer). Each transformer handles a portion of the total power, reducing the power density and heat generation per transformer. This segmentation allows for better heat dissipation while maintaining the overall system functionality.
2Device complexity
If weighted feedback of multiple output voltages is used for regulation, then the device complexity is reduced, but the output voltage stability deteriorates due to cross regulation problems
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the regulation system into independent control loops for each transformer. The first transformer's outputs (+5V and +3.3V) are regulated independently from the second transformer's outputs (+12V). This eliminates cross-regulation interference between different voltage lines while maintaining comprehensive voltage regulation across all outputs.
3Stability of the object's composition
If multiple independent transformers are used for each output voltage, then the output voltage stability is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes each transformer multi-functional by enabling them to provide multiple output voltages. The first transformer provides both +5V and +3.3V outputs, while the second transformer provides the +12V output. This allows the system to achieve independent regulation for each voltage line while using fewer transformers than a completely separate approach would require.
4Power
If both converters work in parallel, then the power output capability is improved, but the loss of energy increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic load sharing between the two converters based on real-time power demands. The control circuit continuously monitors the total power requirement and dynamically adjusts the power distribution between the first and second converters. This ensures that both converters operate within their optimal efficiency ranges, preventing excessive energy loss while maintaining the required power output capability.
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 enhances efficiency across a wide load range, mitigates cross regulation issues, and improves heat dissipation, maintaining high conversion efficiency even under light loads by strategically engaging both converters.
Implementation Method 1
a first inverter receiving the DC input voltage and the first control signal, and generating a first AC output voltage
Implementation Method 2
a first transformer having a first primary winding coupled to the first inverter, a first secondary winding and a second secondary winding
Implementation Method 3
a first rectifier coupled to the first secondary winding, and generating a first high power DC voltage output
Data Source
AI summary
The configurations of a switched-mode power supply and a controlling method thereof are provided. The proposed switched-mode power supply includes a first output converter receiving a DC input voltage and generating a first high power DC voltage output and at least one low power DC voltage output, and a second output converter receiving the DC input voltage and generating a second high power DC voltage output coupled to the first high power DC voltage output to generate a coupled output, wherein the first output converter works and the second output converter idles when a transient power of the coupled output is not larger than a rated output power of the first high power DC voltage output, and both the first and the second output converters work when the transient power is larger than the rated output power.