Switching Delay Controller for SMPS Efficiency

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing switched mode power supplies (SMPS) face inefficiencies due to fixed switching delays, which are not optimally adjusted for varying load conditions, temperature, and component variations, leading to sub-optimal performance and increased complexity and cost.

Innovation Solution

A switching delay controller that dynamically adjusts the switching delay between switching elements in an SMPS using a feedback signal generator and drive circuit, allowing for real-time optimization of efficiency based on current load and temperature conditions, without affecting the power supply's quality or increasing parts count, complexity, or manufacturing cost.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Loss of energy

If fixed switching delays are used in SMPS, then device complexity is reduced, but efficiency deteriorates under varying load conditions

Engineering Contradiction:
ImproveefficiencyVSAvoidcomplexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Loss of energyVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements a feedback mechanism where the controller monitors output parameters and dynamically adjusts the switching delay based on the difference between actual and reference values. This closed-loop control enables real-time optimization of efficiency without requiring complex manual tuning or additional hardware components.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

Solution Approach 2:

The switching delay is transformed from a fixed parameter to a dynamic one that automatically adapts to varying load conditions, temperature changes, and component variations. The controller continuously modifies the delay timing based on real-time feedback, optimizing performance across different operating conditions without increasing device complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

2Loss of energy

If switching delay is dynamically adjusted, then efficiency is improved, but control complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
ImproveefficiencyVSAvoidcontrol complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Loss of energyVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The controller is designed to perform multiple functions: it generates PWM signals, monitors output parameters, calculates feedback errors, and dynamically adjusts switching delays. By consolidating these functions into a single integrated controller, the patent avoids increasing overall control complexity while achieving improved efficiency through dynamic delay adjustment.

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

3Loss of energy

If switching delay is optimized for varying conditions, then efficiency is improved, but manufacturing cost increases

Engineering Contradiction:
ImproveefficiencyVSAvoidmanufacturing cost
Core Design Contradiction:
Loss of energyVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The patent optimizes efficiency by dynamically changing the timing parameter (switching delay) rather than by changing physical components. This approach allows the system to adapt to varying conditions without requiring expensive precision components or complex calibration procedures, thereby maintaining ease of manufacture while improving efficiency.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

Data Source

PatentUS8902617B2Switching delay controller for a switched mode power supply
Publication Date: 2014.12.02 TELEFONAKTIEBOLAGET LM ERICSSON (PUBL)
  • US8902617B2 patent drawing
  • US8902617B2 patent drawing
  • US8902617B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A switching delay controller is configured to control a switching delay between the switching of first and second switching elements in a switched mode power supply. The switched mode power supply generates a feedback signal indicative of a difference between an output of the switched mode power supply and a reference for the output, and switches the first and second switching elements to convert an input voltage into an output voltage based on the feedback signal. The switching delay controller includes a switching delay calculator operable to cause a change of the switching delay for at least one switching cycle of the switched mode power supply, and a feedback signal monitor operable to monitor the feedback signal and determine a change in the feedback signal in response to the change of the switching delay by the switching delay calculator.