Switch-Mode Power Converter Standby Power Reduction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Switch-mode power converters face challenges in reducing power consumption under standby conditions due to the need for an X-resistor to quickly discharge capacitors, which increases power consumption.
Innovation Solution
The system employs diodes and a controller to manage the discharge of capacitors without the X-resistor, utilizing diodes to redirect charge during AC input half-cycles and an under-voltage-lockout component to control transistor operation for efficient discharging.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If an X-resistor is used to quickly discharge the X-capacitor, then safety requirements are met and discharge time is reduced, but standby power consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by making the discharge path configurable - during standby, the controller enables a low-impedance path through the transistor to quickly discharge the X-capacitor, while during normal operation, the discharge path is disabled or high-impedance to minimize power consumption. This dynamic switching of discharge characteristics resolves the contradiction between fast discharge and low standby power.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements periodic action by using the controller to periodically or conditionally activate the discharge transistor based on operational state - activating during standby/suspend states when quick discharge is needed, and deactivating during normal operation when power conservation is prioritized. This periodic activation pattern allows the system to meet safety requirements only when necessary.
2Use of energy by moving object
If the X-resistor is removed to reduce standby power consumption, then power efficiency improves, but the capacitor cannot be discharged quickly enough to meet safety standards
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary element - the controlled transistor (third semiconductor device) - that acts as a temporary discharge path during standby states. This intermediary provides the necessary low-impedance discharge path when needed without requiring a permanent X-resistor that would continuously consume power. The transistor is controlled by the controller to provide discharge capability only when required by safety standards.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies parameter changes by dynamically altering the impedance of the discharge path through transistor control - switching from high-impedance (transistor off) during normal operation to low-impedance (transistor on) during standby states. This parameter switching allows the system to meet discharge time requirements temporarily without the continuous power penalty of a fixed low-impedance path.
3Use of energy by moving object
If other components' power consumption is reduced, then overall system standby power decreases, but the controller may not have sufficient voltage for proper operation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by ensuring the X-capacitor is completely discharged before the system enters deep standby or suspend modes. By proactively removing voltage from the X-capacitor while the controller is still fully operational, the system prevents voltage sags that could occur later when the controller needs to operate with reduced power availability. This preliminary discharge action protects controller operation during subsequent low-power states.
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 approach reduces standby power consumption by eliminating the need for the X-resistor, thereby decreasing overall power usage in switch-mode power converters.
Implementation Method 1
The first diode is coupled to the second diode at a first node... The first anode is connected to a first input terminal, the second anode is connected to a second input terminal
Implementation Method 2
The transistor includes a first transistor terminal, a second transistor terminal, and a third transistor terminal. The first transistor terminal is configured to receive the second signal from the detection component
Implementation Method 3
The under-voltage-lockout component is configured to receive a second input voltage from the third capacitor terminal through the fourth controller terminal and generate the first signal based on at least information associated with the second input voltage
Data Source
AI summary
Power conversion system and method. The system includes a first capacitor including a first capacitor terminal and a second capacitor terminal, a second capacitor including a third capacitor terminal and a fourth capacitor terminal, and a plurality of diodes including a first diode, a second diode, a third diode, and a fourth diode. The first diode is coupled to the second diode at a first node, the second diode is coupled to the fourth diode at a second node, the fourth diode is coupled to the third diode at a third node, and the third diode is coupled to the first diode at a fourth node. Additionally, the system includes a fifth diode including a first anode and a first cathode and a sixth diode including a second anode and a second cathode.