Selectable Power Paths in Switch Mode Converters for USB-C SPR and EPR
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Solution Overview
Problem
There is a need for a switch mode power converter that can efficiently provide power to a USB-C load under both standard power range (SPR) and extended power range (EPR) load demands.
Innovation Solution
The proposed solution is a switch mode power converter with selectable power paths, which includes a plurality of stacked secondary windings and secondary side circuitry featuring a power multiplexer (MUX) that selects and transitions between multiple power paths to provide a single output power path to a load.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple converter stages are used to support both SPR and EPR power ranges, then power delivery capability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic power path selection through a multiplexer that can switch between different power delivery configurations. The system dynamically adjusts the power path based on whether SPR or EPR mode is required, allowing a single converter stage to adapt to different power ranges rather than requiring multiple fixed converter stages. This dynamic reconfiguration enables the system to support both power ranges with reduced complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a universal power converter design that can handle both SPR and EPR power ranges through a single multi-functional converter stage. By incorporating a multiplexer and configurable power paths, the converter becomes capable of performing multiple functions (supporting different power ranges) rather than requiring separate dedicated converters for each mode, thereby reducing overall device complexity.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple power paths are provided for different power ranges, then adaptability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple power delivery paths into a single integrated converter stage with a multiplexer. Instead of having separate physical power paths for SPR and EPR that would increase complexity, the system combines the power delivery functionality into one stage with configurable routing. The multiplexer intelligently directs power flow based on the required mode, effectively merging multiple functions into a unified structure that reduces overall device complexity while maintaining adaptability.
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 configuration allows for efficient power delivery to USB-C loads across a wide range of power requirements, from up to 100 W under SPR to up to 240 W under EPR, while reducing the number of converter stages and improving performance.
Implementation Method 1
a transformer having a primary winding and a plurality of stacked secondary windings
Data Source
AI summary
A switch mode power converter with selectable power paths is described herein. The switch mode power converter comprises a plurality of stacked secondary windings and secondary side circuitry. The plurality of stacked secondary windings comprises a first winding and a second winding. Additionally, the secondary side circuitry comprises a first power path, a second power path, and a power multiplexer (MUX). The first power path is electrically coupled to the first winding; and the second power path is electrically coupled to the second winding. The power MUX is configured to select and transition between the first power path and the second power path to provide a single output power path to a load.