Multi-Output SMPS Secondary Switch Timing for Power Balance

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Solution Overview

Problem

Switching regulators with multiple outputs face challenges in balancing power between different outputs, particularly when synchronous rectification is not commonly used.

Innovation Solution

A switching mode power supply system with a primary circuit, multiple secondary circuits, and a control circuit that detects voltage deviations and extends the ON time of secondary power switches to balance output voltages by postponing their turn-off times.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Loss of energy

If synchronous rectification is used with controllable power switches to improve power conversion efficiency, then power consumption is reduced and efficiency is improved, but controlling power balance between multiple outputs becomes difficult

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvepower consumptionVSAvoidcontrol complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Loss of energyVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements a feedback mechanism where the control circuit monitors output voltages from multiple secondary circuits and adjusts the turn-off timing of secondary power switches accordingly. When an output voltage deviates from the reference voltage, the control circuit extends the ON time of the corresponding secondary power switch to restore power balance, creating a closed-loop control system that automatically maintains efficient operation across all outputs

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

Solution Approach 2:

The patent introduces dynamic control of secondary power switch turn-off timing based on real-time output voltage conditions. Instead of fixed timing, the control circuit dynamically extends or maintains the ON time of secondary power switches according to whether their corresponding output voltages are below or above reference levels, allowing the system to adapt to varying load conditions and maintain power balance

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

2Adaptability or versatility

If multiple secondary circuits are added to provide multiple output voltages for complex appliance functions, then versatility is improved, but maintaining power balance between outputs becomes difficult

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveoutput versatilityVSAvoidpower balance control
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies synchronous rectification with controllable power switches across all secondary circuits, allowing each output to be independently controlled while maintaining a unified control architecture. This universal approach enables the same efficient rectification technique to be used for all multiple outputs, providing versatility while maintaining manageable control through standardized feedback mechanisms

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The control circuit independently monitors each output voltage and applies targeted feedback control to each secondary power switch. When any output voltage deviates from its reference voltage, the control circuit specifically adjusts that output's power switch timing without affecting other outputs, enabling independent control of multiple outputs while maintaining overall power balance

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

3Stability of the object's composition

If the ON time of secondary power switches is extended to balance output voltages, then power balance is improved, but the risk of over-voltage increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvepower balanceVSAvoidover-voltage risk
Core Design Contradiction:
Stability of the object's compositionVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The control circuit continuously monitors output voltages and only extends the ON time of secondary power switches when output voltages are detected to be below reference voltages. This conditional feedback control ensures that extension of ON time occurs only when needed for power balance, preventing over-voltage conditions by avoiding unnecessary extensions

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

Solution Approach 2:

The control circuit dynamically changes the ON time parameter of secondary power switches based on real-time output voltage conditions. By adjusting the duration of the ON state in response to voltage deviations, the system optimizes power transfer while maintaining voltage stability and preventing over-voltage through controlled parameter modification

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

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 system effectively maintains power balance across multiple outputs by adjusting the ON time of secondary power switches, ensuring efficient power conversion and delivery.

Implementation Method 1

a transformer, a primary circuit coupled to a primary side of the transformer, and a plurality of secondary circuits coupled in parallel with each other at a secondary side of the transformer

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElectromagnetic induction: Electromagnetic Induction

Data Source

PatentUS12463540B2Switching mode power supply with improved power balance and the method thereof
Publication Date: 2025.11.04 CHENGDU MONOLITHIC POWER SYST
  • US12463540B2 patent drawing
  • US12463540B2 patent drawing
  • US12463540B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A switching mode power supply with improved power balance is discussed. It has a transformer, a primary circuit having a primary power switch coupled to a primary side of the transformer, and a plurality of secondary circuits coupled in parallel with each other at a secondary side of the transformer. A plurality of output voltages are provided at each of the secondary circuits; and each of the secondary circuits has a secondary power switch. If any of the output voltage deviates from a reference voltage, an ON time length of the corresponding secondary power switch is extended.