Power Supply IC Dual Discharge Circuit for AC Input
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Solution Overview
Problem
Integrated circuit devices for power supplies connected to an AC power supply via a capacitor face challenges in reliably discharging accumulated charge when the AC power supply is interrupted, especially when the internal supply voltage is lost, leading to potential power loss and inefficiency.
Innovation Solution
The integrated circuit device incorporates a first discharge circuit that operates in response to the internal supply voltage and a second discharge circuit that functions when the internal supply voltage is interrupted, ensuring reliable discharge of the capacitor charge. The first discharge circuit is activated when the input voltage falls below a set threshold, and the second discharge circuit takes over when the internal supply voltage is lost, using switch elements, voltage-dividing circuits, and switch control circuits to manage the discharge process.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of energy
If an electronic discharge circuit is incorporated into the power IC to prevent power loss from the discharge resistor, then power efficiency is improved, but the discharge function fails when the internal supply voltage is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The discharge circuit is segmented into two independent parts: a first discharge circuit (electronic discharge circuit) that operates when internal supply voltage is available, and a second discharge circuit (passive discharge circuit) that operates when internal supply voltage is lost. Each segment handles specific discharge scenarios, ensuring comprehensive coverage without relying on a single failure-prone mechanism.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent incorporates a second discharge circuit as a pre-prepared backup mechanism that activates when the first discharge circuit fails due to loss of internal supply voltage. This cushioning mechanism ensures that discharge functionality is maintained even under adverse conditions, preventing safety issues before they can occur.
2Reliability
If a discharge resistor is connected parallel to the capacitor in the input circuit, then the charge can be discharged when AC power supply is interrupted, but power loss occurs from the discharge resistor
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the passive mechanical discharge resistor with an active electronic discharge circuit that uses a switch element controlled by voltage detection mechanisms. This substitution allows the discharge function to be activated only when necessary (when AC power supply is interrupted), eliminating continuous power loss while maintaining reliable charge discharge capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The discharge resistor is replaced with a periodically activated electronic discharge circuit that monitors input voltage levels and activates the discharge function only when voltage falls below a threshold indicating AC power supply interruption. This periodic activation eliminates continuous power consumption while ensuring discharge occurs when needed.
Data Source
AI summary
An integrated circuit device, for a power supply that is connected to an AC power source via an input circuit having a capacitor, is able to reliably discharge the capacitor when the AC power source is interrupted. The integrated circuit device includes a first discharge circuit that operates in response to an internal supply voltage and discharges the capacitor via a first switch element that is turned on when the input voltage provided via the input circuit falls below a set voltage, and a second discharge circuit having a second switch element that is turned off when receiving the internal supply voltage but is turned on in response to the input voltage when the supply of internal supply voltage is interrupted.