Single-Terminal Power Converter Controller for Over-Temperature and Over-Voltage Protection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Power conversion systems face challenges in simultaneously achieving over-temperature protection (OTP) and over-voltage protection (OVP) using a single terminal, as existing solutions either increase fabrication costs or are difficult to implement due to limitations in chip packaging and the inability to perform both protections simultaneously.
Innovation Solution
A system controller with a single terminal that alternates between receiving input signals for OTP and OVP during different switching periods, utilizing a transformer to isolate input and output voltages and employing resistors and diodes to detect temperature and voltage thresholds, triggering the switch to open and remain open in response to protection conditions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If two different terminals are used for OTP and OVP respectively, then the protection functions can be implemented, but the device complexity and fabrication cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies multi-functionality by enabling a single terminal to perform both OTP and OVP detection functions. The terminal is configured to receive different input signals at different times: a first input signal during first switching periods for OTP detection, and a second input signal during second switching periods for OVP detection. This allows one terminal to replace what would traditionally require two separate terminals, reducing device complexity while maintaining protection reliability
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements periodic action by alternating between OTP detection and OVP detection in different switching periods. The controller chip periodically switches between receiving the first input signal for temperature detection and the second input signal for voltage detection. This time-division multiplexing approach allows a single terminal to sequentially perform multiple protection functions without interference, resolving the contradiction between functional completeness and terminal quantity
2Ease of manufacture
If a single terminal is used for OTP or OVP, then fabrication cost is reduced, but the ability to perform both protections simultaneously is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses periodic action to alternate between OTP and OVP detection functions in different switching periods. During first switching periods, the single terminal receives the first input signal for OTP detection; during second switching periods, it receives the second input signal for OVP detection. This time-division approach enables one terminal to provide both protection capabilities sequentially, maintaining versatility while reducing fabrication cost
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies dynamics by making the terminal's function dynamic rather than static. The terminal can dynamically switch between OTP detection mode and OVP detection mode based on the current switching period. This dynamic reconfiguration allows a single terminal to adaptively perform different protection functions at different times, resolving the contradiction between cost reduction and capability maintenance
3Reliability
If the OVP detection circuit is implemented separately, then OVP function is achieved, but it disturbs the current sensing mechanism
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies periodic action by separating OVP detection from current sensing in different switching periods. The OVP detection circuit receives the second input signal during second switching periods when current sensing is not active, while the current sensing mechanism operates during first switching periods. This time-division isolation prevents the OVP detection circuit from interfering with current sensing, resolving the contradiction between achieving OVP protection and avoiding sensing disturbance
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses segmentation by dividing the operation into distinct switching periods with dedicated functions. First switching periods are allocated for current sensing and OTP detection, while second switching periods are allocated for OVP detection. This functional segmentation in the time domain separates the OVP detection circuit operations from current sensing operations, eliminating mutual interference while maintaining both functions
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 effective OTP and OVP in power conversion systems using a single terminal, reducing fabrication costs and overcoming packaging limitations while ensuring reliable protection against temperature and voltage thresholds.
Implementation Method 1
utilizing a transformer to isolate input and output voltages
Implementation Method 2
employing resistors and diodes to detect temperature and voltage thresholds
Data Source
AI summary
Systems and methods are provided for protecting a power conversion system. A system controller includes a first controller terminal and a second controller terminal. The first controller terminal is configured to provide a drive signal to close and open a switch to affect a first current flowing through a primary winding of a power conversion system. The second controller terminal is configured to receive first input signals during one or more first switching periods and receive second input signals during one or more second switching periods. The system controller is configured to determine whether a temperature associated with the power conversion system is larger than a predetermined temperature threshold, and in response to the temperature associated with the power conversion system being larger than the predetermined temperature threshold, generate the drive signal to cause the switch open and remain open to protect the power conversion system.