Switchable Resonance Capacitor for Power Source Device Efficiency

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Solution Overview

Problem

The power source devices of the current resonance type face efficiency losses during light loads due to the constant excitation current flowing through the primary side of the transformer, which does not contribute to the load and increases primary-side losses, and there is a need for downsizing while maintaining high efficiency.

Innovation Solution

A power source device with a transformer having a primary side and secondary side insulated from each other, featuring a first and second switching element in series, a resonance capacitor connected in series with the primary winding, and a switch to connect or disconnect between different primary windings and the resonance capacitor based on load conditions, allowing for efficient power supply to the secondary winding.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Loss of energy

If a resonance capacitor is added to reduce excitation current, then efficiency during light load is improved, but device area increases due to additional mounting space required

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveprimary-side lossVSAvoidsubstrate area
Core Design Contradiction:
Loss of energyVSArea of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent makes the resonance capacitor's connection switchable between connected and disconnected states from the primary winding, allowing the same capacitor to serve different functions based on load conditions. During light loads, the capacitor is connected to reduce excitation current and improve efficiency. During heavy loads, the capacitor is disconnected to prevent it from affecting the current resonance circuit's ability to supply large currents, thus maintaining multi-functionality with a single component.

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

Solution Approach 2:

The patent introduces dynamic switching control of the resonance capacitor based on load detection. The control unit dynamically adjusts the capacitor's connection state according to real-time load conditions, making the system adaptive. This dynamic approach allows the capacitor to be utilized only when beneficial (light loads), avoiding its negative impact during heavy loads, thereby optimizing both efficiency and current supply capability across different operating conditions.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

2Loss of energy

If excitation current is reduced to improve light load efficiency, then energy saving is achieved, but the ability to supply maximum load current may be affected

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveexcitation current lossVSAvoidsuppliable maximum load current
Core Design Contradiction:
Loss of energyVSPower

Solution Approach 1:

The patent dynamically switches the resonance capacitor's connection state based on load conditions. During light loads, the capacitor is connected to reduce excitation current and improve efficiency. During heavy loads, the capacitor is disconnected to ensure the current resonance circuit can supply maximum load current without restriction. This dynamic adaptation resolves the contradiction by optimizing for different operating conditions at different times.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The patent implements periodic switching of the resonance capacitor's connection state in response to periodic changes in load conditions. The control unit continuously monitors load status and periodically adjusts the capacitor's connection, creating a rhythmic adaptation pattern that maintains optimal performance across varying operational demands, balancing efficiency and power supply capability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #19Periodic action

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 reduces excitation current during light loads, improving efficiency and allowing for a more compact design without the need for additional resonance capacitors, thus enhancing energy savings and device miniaturization.

Implementation Method 1

a power source device with a transformer having a primary side and secondary side insulated from each other, featuring a first and second switching element in series, a resonance capacitor connected in series with the primary winding

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectResonance: Resonance

Data Source

PatentUS9787205B2Power source device and image forming apparatus
Publication Date: 2017.10.10 CANON KK
  • US9787205B2 patent drawing
  • US9787205B2 patent drawing
  • US9787205B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A power source device includes a transformer, a first switching element and a second switching element, a resonance capacitor, and a switch. One end of the second switching element is connected with one end portion of a primary winding. The other end of the second switching element is connected with one end portion of the resonance capacitor. The primary winding and the resonance capacitor are resonated with each other by alternately operating the first and second switching elements to supply electric power to a load connected with a secondary winding of the transformer. The primary winding includes a first primary winding and a second primary winding. Depending on the load, the switch connects or disconnects between the first primary winding and the resonance capacitor, or connects or disconnects between the second primary winding and said resonance capacitor.