Switching Power Supply Malfunction Detection and Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Switching power supply apparatuses in image forming devices face efficiency issues over a wide load range and are prone to malfunction due to noise, leading to overcurrent and power termination, affecting usability.
Innovation Solution
A power supply apparatus with a transformer, switching elements, and a control unit that performs alternate turn-on and turn-off operations of switching elements, including a detection unit to manage malfunctions and prevent overcurrent by holding the first switching element off until the second switching element is turned on, ensuring continuous power output.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the control unit stops operating due to noise, then the switching element is held in turn-on condition causing overcurrent, but the power supply apparatus stops outputting power resulting in decreased usability
Solution Approach 1:
The invention introduces a detection unit and a first holding unit as intermediary components between the control unit and the first switching element. The detection unit monitors the operation state of the control unit, and the first holding unit acts as an intermediate holder that can forcibly hold or release the first switching element based on detection results, thereby protecting the system when the control unit malfunctions while maintaining power supply continuity
Solution Approach 2:
The invention implements a feedback mechanism where the detection unit continuously monitors the control unit's operation state and provides feedback signals. When the control unit stops operating due to noise, the detection unit detects this state and triggers the first holding unit to release the first switching element, preventing overcurrent while maintaining system usability
2Reliability
If the first switching element is held off to protect from overcurrent, then circuit protection is achieved, but power output is terminated affecting usability
Solution Approach 1:
The first holding unit serves as an intermediary that can selectively hold or release the first switching element based on the operation state of the control unit. When the control unit is malfunctioning, the first holding unit holds the first switching element off to prevent overcurrent. When the control unit resumes normal operation, the first holding unit releases the switching element to restore power output, thus achieving both circuit protection and maintained usability
Solution Approach 2:
The invention makes the state of the first switching element dynamic rather than fixed. The first holding unit can change the state of the first switching element between held-off and released based on real-time detection of the control unit's operation state, allowing the system to adapt between protection mode and normal operation mode
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
The solution protects the circuit from overcurrent and maintains power supply to the load even when the control unit malfunctions, enhancing the reliability and usability of the switching power supply.
Implementation Method 1
a transformer (T1) including a primary winding (P1) and a secondary winding (S1)
Data Source
AI summary
The switching power supply apparatus including a transformer includes a detection unit configured to detect that the power supply apparatus malfunctions and a first holding unit configured to turn off a first switching element and holds the first switching element at turn-off condition, and when the detection unit detects that malfunction occurs, the first holding unit releases the first switching element from the turn-off condition at a timing when the control unit turns on the second switching element by a second control signal.