Switching Controller Auxiliary Power via PWM Cycle Extension
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional power supply systems face challenges in reducing standby power consumption while maintaining adequate power for electronics in 'on' mode, often requiring costly and complex auxiliary power components like additional transformer windings and Schottky diodes.
Innovation Solution
Implementing cycle extension and cycle truncation techniques in switching power converters to generate auxiliary power with low standby power consumption, where a portion of the PWM signal is extended or truncated to charge both load and auxiliary power subsystems, allowing the auxiliary power module to maintain the switching controller without the need for linear regulators during normal operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If auxiliary power components (additional transformer windings, Schottky diodes) are used to provide auxiliary power, then the switching controller can be maintained during normal operation, but the device complexity and manufacturing cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the auxiliary power function with the existing primary power transformer by utilizing the same magnetic core and winding structure. The auxiliary power is derived by tapping into the primary transformer's magnetic field during its operation cycles, eliminating the need for separate auxiliary power windings and components while maintaining controller operation continuity
Solution Approach 2:
The primary transformer is designed to serve dual functions: providing main power conversion and simultaneously generating auxiliary power for the controller. This multi-functionality is achieved by strategically positioning the auxiliary rectifier and capacitor to harvest energy from the transformer's magnetic field during both switching cycles, making the single transformer component perform multiple roles
2Speed
If the controller is kept energized in standby mode to enable quick startup, then the startup response time is improved, but the standby power consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The auxiliary power system operates periodically by harvesting energy from the primary transformer during its switching cycles. During standby mode, the controller enters a low-power state while the auxiliary capacitor maintains minimal charge, and the system automatically restores full operation when power is applied, achieving fast startup without continuous power consumption
Solution Approach 2:
The auxiliary power circuit serves itself by automatically charging the auxiliary capacitor from the primary transformer's magnetic field during normal operation and maintaining sufficient charge for controller operation. The system self-regulates the power distribution between main load and auxiliary controller without external intervention, reducing standby consumption while ensuring rapid startup capability
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 and eliminates the need for costly auxiliary components, enhancing efficiency and reducing complexity by using the switching converter's energy to power the controller, thus minimizing energy loss and operational costs.
Implementation Method 1
a pulse-width modulated ('PWM') signal may be used to drive the switching power element
Implementation Method 2
the additional charge may be used to power one or more auxiliary power units
Data Source
AI summary
Methods, systems, and devices are described for auxiliary power with low standby power consumption. Switching power converters typically include a switching power element (e.g., a power transistor), driven by a switching controller (e.g., including a gate driver). The power output of the switching power converter may be a function of the switching signal provided by the switching controller. For example, a pulse-width modulated (“PWM”) signal may be used to drive the switching power element, and the output of the switching controller may be adjusted by adjusting the frequency and/or duty cycle of the PWM signal. Embodiments implement cycle extension techniques to effectively extend a portion of the PWM signal to generate additional charge. The additional charge may be used to power an auxiliary power unit. The auxiliary power unit may then be used to drive the switching controller and/or to provide a source of power for other internal or external components.