Reversible Switched-Mode Power Supply for USB Type-C Bidirectional Energy Transfer

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing USB Type-C energy converters lack reversibility, adjustable voltage, and current regulation, requiring additional switching devices and fixed voltage output, which complicates bidirectional power transfer and management.

Innovation Solution

A reversible switched-mode power supply with an inductor and symmetrically arranged switching cells, along with a capacitor and measurement circuits, enables bidirectional power transfer and regulation, simplifying the architecture and allowing for adjustable voltage and current regulation.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If existing USB Type-C energy converters are used, then power transfer function is provided, but reversibility and adjustable voltage capability are lacking, requiring additional switching devices

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvebidirectional power transfer capabilityVSAvoidnumber of switching devices

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements a universal power conversion architecture where a single switched-mode power supply circuit can operate in multiple modes: bidirectional power transfer (source and receiver modes), adjustable voltage output, and current regulation. This multi-functional design eliminates the need for separate switching devices for each function, directly resolving the contradiction between versatility and device complexity

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent employs dynamic control of the switched-mode power supply circuit, allowing it to adapt its operating characteristics in real-time. The circuit can dynamically switch between buck and boost modes, adjust voltage levels, and regulate current based on the connected device's requirements. This dynamic capability enables bidirectional power transfer and adjustable voltage without requiring additional fixed-function switching devices

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

2Adaptability or versatility

If fixed voltage output is used, then converter design is simplified, but voltage regulation capability is lost

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvevoltage regulation capabilityVSAvoidconverter architecture

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent utilizes parameter changes in the switched-mode power supply circuit to achieve adjustable voltage output. By varying the duty cycle of the switching elements and adjusting the feedback control parameters, the circuit can output different voltage levels (e.g., 5V, 12V, 20V) while maintaining stable power transfer. This parameter-based control provides voltage regulation capability without fundamentally complicating the converter architecture

Inventive Principle:

Principle #35Parameter changes

Solution Approach 2:

The patent implements feedback control mechanisms where the output voltage and current are continuously monitored and fed back to the control circuit. This feedback enables automatic voltage regulation by adjusting the switching parameters to maintain the desired output level, providing adaptability while keeping the architecture manageable through standardized control loops

Inventive Principle:

Principle #23Feedback

3Adaptability or versatility

If additional switching devices are added for reversibility, then bidirectional power transfer is enabled, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvebidirectional power transferVSAvoidswitching device architecture

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent merges the bidirectional power transfer function with the existing switched-mode power supply architecture. By combining the rectifier, filter, and control circuits into an integrated design that can operate in both power delivery and power reception modes, the patent enables reversibility without adding separate switching device sets. The same switching elements serve dual purposes in different operating modes

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

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

The solution enables efficient bidirectional power transfer with adjustable voltage and current regulation, simplifying the design and improving the management of electrical energy between USB Type-C devices, reducing the need for additional switching devices and enhancing power management capabilities.

Implementation Method 1

A reversible switched-mode power supply with an inductor and symmetrically arranged switching cells

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectElectromagnetic induction: Electromagnetic Induction

Implementation Method 2

along with a capacitor and measurement circuits, enables bidirectional power transfer and regulation

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectCapacitance: Capacitance

Data Source

PatentUS10924016B2Method for converting electric energy between C-type USB devices and corresponding device

Publication Date: 2021.02.16 STMICROELECTRONICS (GRAND OUEST) SAS

AI summary

A USB Type-C device supporting a bidirectional power supply, includes: a first device terminal configured to be coupled to a second USB Type-C device; a second device terminal configured to be coupled to a rechargeable DC voltage power source; and a reversible switched-mode power supply coupled to the first device terminal and the second device terminal.