Power Supply Evaluation Unit for Output Parameter Compliance
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing power supply units with non-floating switch converters face complexity, increased costs, and susceptibility to faults due to the need for redundant circuit components to ensure compliance with specified maximum output parameters, particularly in the event of a single fault, which can lead to undetected 'dormant' faults and inadequate shutdowns.
Innovation Solution
A method and circuit that continuously measure and evaluate output current and voltage to calculate output power, comparing these values against specified maximums, and interrupt the current flow if exceeded, using an evaluation unit to ensure compliance with safety standards like UL508 Class 2, thereby simplifying and economizing the power supply unit design.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If redundant circuit components are implemented to ensure compliance with maximum output parameters during single faults, then reliability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the monitoring function into separate evaluation units, each responsible for specific parameters (output current, output power). This segmentation allows independent monitoring of each parameter without requiring complete redundancy of the entire control system, thus improving reliability while managing complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The evaluation units continuously monitor output parameters and predict potential violations of maximum values before they occur. By taking preliminary action to detect and respond to approaching limit conditions, the system ensures compliance during faults without needing redundant components that would only activate after failure.
2Reliability
If redundant circuit components are implemented to ensure compliance with maximum output parameters, then reliability is improved, but manufacturing costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The evaluation units are designed to perform multiple functions: monitoring output current, calculating output power, comparing against maximum values, and triggering shutdown sequences. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate redundant components for each parameter, reducing manufacturing costs while maintaining reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses its existing measurement and control infrastructure to perform compliance monitoring. The evaluation units leverage already-present sensors and processors to derive additional safety functions, rather than requiring separate redundant hardware, thus avoiding increased manufacturing costs.
3Productivity
If measurement and evaluation of output parameters are continuously performed, then detection speed is improved, but use of energy increases
Solution Approach 1:
The evaluation units continuously monitor output parameters without interruption, enabling immediate detection of compliance violations. This continuous monitoring is achieved by leveraging the existing switching frequency of the power supply unit, so measurements are taken during normal operation cycles rather than requiring additional energy-intensive sampling infrastructure.
Data Source
AI summary
A method and a circuit for complying with specified maximum values for output parameters a power supply unit includes at least a non-floating switch converter, an output voltage control unit, a current limiter and a switch element, wherein actual values of the current and voltage outputs of the power supply unit are measured continuously, where an evaluation unit calculates actual output power values of the power supply unit from the actual measured values of the output current and voltages, and subsequently compares at least the respective actually measured values of the output current and the respective actually calculated output power values with specified maximum values such that if at least one of the specified maximum values is exceeded by an actually measured value of the output current and/or by an actually calculated output power value, a current flow in the power supply unit is then interrupted by the evaluation unit.