Power Conversion Hold-Up Time via Segmented Energy Storage
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing power conversion apparatuses have insufficient hold-up time due to small capacitance in voltage regulator capacitors, leading to sudden power loss and instability in electronic devices during power outages.
Innovation Solution
A power conversion apparatus that includes a transformer, a first power switch, a PWM signal generator, an energy storage element, and a power circuit, where the power circuit supplies power to the PWM signal generator using backup power stored during normal operation, extending the hold-up time by charging the energy storage element when the external power source is off.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If a voltage regulator capacitor with small capacitance is used in the power conversion apparatus, then the device complexity is reduced, but the hold-up time is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The power storage function is segmented into two parts: the voltage regulator capacitor for normal operation and the energy storage element for backup power. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized for its specific function, with the energy storage element specifically dedicated to extending hold-up time during power outages
Solution Approach 2:
The power circuit acts as an intermediary between the auxiliary winding and the energy storage element, managing the charging and discharging of backup power. This intermediary component coordinates the power flow to ensure the PWM signal generator receives continuous power during hold-up time
2Ease of manufacture
If the power conversion apparatus uses a simple capacitor for voltage regulation, then the manufacturing cost is reduced, but the operational stability during power outages deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The energy storage element is charged with backup power through the power circuit during normal operation before the power outage occurs. This preliminary action ensures that when the external power source fails, the PWM signal generator immediately has available power to maintain control functions and extend hold-up time
Solution Approach 2:
The energy storage element serves as a cushion or backup power source that compensates for the sudden loss of external power. This beforehand cushioning ensures continuous operation of the PWM signal generator during the transition period of power outage, maintaining operational stability
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 solution extends the hold-up time that the power conversion apparatus continuously provides an output voltage, enhancing the operational stability of electronic devices by ensuring continued power supply during power outages.
Implementation Method 1
an energy storage element coupled to a power terminal of the PWM signal generator... When a voltage of the energy storage element is greater than or equal to a threshold voltage, the power circuit stores backup power according to the auxiliary voltage
Implementation Method 2
the transformer in the power conversion apparatus may transfer electrical energy stored by the primary side to the secondary side of the power conversion apparatus
Data Source
AI summary
A power conversion apparatus including a transformer, a power switch, a pulse width modulation (PWM) signal generator, an energy storage element, and a power circuit is provided. A primary winding of the transformer receives an input voltage from an external power source. An auxiliary winding of the transformer provides an auxiliary voltage. The power switch is coupled to the primary winding. The PWM signal generator generates a PWM signal to control on and off the power switch. The energy storage element is coupled to a power terminal of the PWM signal generator. The power circuit supplies power to the PWM signal generator and charges the energy storage element according to the auxiliary voltage. When a voltage of the energy storage element is greater than or equal to a threshold voltage, the power circuit stores backup power according to the auxiliary voltage. When the external power source stops providing the input voltage, the power circuit supplies power to the PWM signal generator and charges the energy storage element according to the backup power.