Power Supply Circuit for Multi-Source Voltage Equalization
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing power supply systems face challenges in efficiently combining and utilizing multiple power sources with different voltage accuracy and current limits, limiting the ability to supply power to high-performance loads like CPUs and GPUs in electronic devices such as PCI cards.
Innovation Solution
A power supply circuit that combines multiple power sources with different voltage accuracy and current limits using a combining circuit with rectifier elements and a control circuit to equalize output voltages and manage current flow, incorporating a buck-boost DDC to adjust voltage levels and reduce power dissipation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Power
If multiple power sources are combined using a known power combining unit, then the system can accept multiple power inputs, but the total power supply to the load is limited by the most restrictive power source rather than the sum of all power limits
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the voltage parameter of one power source using a converter to enable proper parallel operation. By adjusting the voltage of the first power source to match the second power source, the system can combine powers additively rather than being limited by the most restrictive source, thereby increasing total power supply capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a converter as an intermediary component between the first power source and the parallel combination point. This converter mediates the voltage difference between power sources, enabling them to operate in parallel and contribute their full power limits to the load.
2Productivity
If power sources with different voltages are connected in parallel without voltage equalization, then connection is simple, but current flow becomes unbalanced and power distribution is inefficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies parameter change by adjusting the voltage of the first power source through a converter to match the voltage of the second power source. This voltage equalization enables balanced current distribution and efficient power combination, resolving the trade-off between simplicity and efficiency.
3Productivity
If a converter is added to match voltage levels between power sources, then power combination efficiency improves, but power dissipation in the converter increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a dynamic buck-boost converter that can operate in different modes (buck or boost) depending on the voltage relationship between power sources. This dynamic operation optimizes the conversion process and minimizes power dissipation while maintaining voltage matching for efficient power combination.
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
Enables the efficient use of total power limits from multiple power sources, increasing the output power to electronic devices, allowing for the installation of high-power consumption components without dedicated CPU development, while minimizing power dissipation and maintaining high efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
a converter that is inserted in the first power supply line and that converts a voltage of the first input power input from the first input node to a higher voltage or a lower voltage
Implementation Method 2
a first rectifier circuit that is inserted in the first power supply line to direct a forward direction of the first rectifier circuit to a direction from the converter to the output node, a second rectifier circuit that is inserted in the second power supply line to direct a forward direction
Data Source
AI summary
A power supply circuit includes a first power supply line that couples a first input node from which first input power is input and an output node to each other, a second power supply line that couples a second input node from which second input power is input and the output node to each other, a power limit of the second input power being higher than that of the first input power, a converter that is inserted in the first power supply line and that converts a voltage of the first input power input from the first input node to a higher voltage or a lower voltage, an adjustment circuit that adjusts an output voltage of the converter to a voltage higher than a voltage of the second input power input from the second input node.