Switching Power Supply Rectifier Using Active Switches
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing DC-DC converters with diode rectifiers experience increased energy loss due to high current flowing through diodes, leading to higher power consumption.
Innovation Solution
A switching power supply circuit utilizing switching devices, such as FETs, instead of diodes for rectification, with a switching controller that includes a comparing unit, resistance unit, clock generating unit, and waveform generating unit to control the switching devices based on output values, allowing for efficient current rectification without specific external control.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If diodes are used for rectification in a DC-DC converter, then the structure remains simple, but energy loss increases due to the product of current and voltage drop
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the operating parameters of the rectifier by using switching devices (MOSFETs or IGBTs) instead of diodes. These switching devices have much lower on-state voltage drops compared to diodes, especially under high current conditions. The control unit adjusts the switching timing and duty cycle to optimize the rectification process, thereby reducing power loss while maintaining relatively simple circuit structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the passive diode-based rectification mechanism with an active switching device-controlled rectification system. Instead of relying on the inherent unidirectional conduction property of diodes, the system uses electronically controlled switching devices that can be precisely timed and controlled to achieve more efficient current rectification with lower voltage drops and reduced power losses.
2Loss of energy
If switching devices are used instead of diodes for rectification, then power consumption is reduced, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The switching devices (MOSFETs or IGBTs) serve multiple functions: they act as rectifiers, current controllers, and protection devices simultaneously. The control unit integrates multiple control functions including PWM generation, dead-time control, and synchronization with the transformer output. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate components and allows the system to achieve low power consumption without proportionally increasing overall system complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The control unit automatically adjusts the switching parameters based on the output voltage feedback and load conditions. The system self-regulates the switching duty cycle and timing to maintain optimal efficiency across varying operating conditions, reducing the need for external intervention or complex manual tuning while maintaining low power consumption.
3Productivity
If a control unit is added to manage switching devices, then rectification efficiency improves, but the system becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The control unit merges multiple control functions into a single integrated circuit: PWM signal generation, switching timing control, dead-time insertion, and voltage feedback regulation are all combined in one unit. This consolidation improves rectification efficiency by coordinating all switching operations while preventing the control system from becoming overly complex through functional integration rather than multiplication of separate components.
Solution Approach 2:
The control unit incorporates a feedback mechanism that monitors the output voltage and adjusts the switching duty cycle accordingly. This closed-loop control automatically optimizes rectification efficiency under varying load conditions and maintains stable output voltage. The feedback-based regulation improves productivity by ensuring consistent efficient operation without requiring complex manual intervention or multiple separate control circuits.
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 power consumption by minimizing power loss proportional to the square of the current, offering a simpler design and lower energy expenditure compared to diode-based rectifiers.
Implementation Method 1
The energy may be transferred to the first rectifier 30 through the transformer 20 by turning on/off the switch on time
Data Source
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AI summary
A switching power supply circuit according to the embodiment, which includes a switching unit having at least one switch and connected to one side of a transformer, includes a switching controller connected to an output side of the switching unit for controlling the switching unit based on an output of the switching unit, wherein the switching controller includes a comparing unit and an output waveform generating unit. According to the embodiment, the power consumption is reduced by performing rectification using a switch, and since the switching unit is controlled without any controller, the switching power supply circuit is prepared in a simple configuration.