Switching Power Supply Voltage Control for Image Formers
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing power supply systems for image forming apparatuses consume unnecessary power during standby modes due to high output voltages, which can lead to increased energy costs and reduced battery lifespan.
Innovation Solution
A power supply system that switches to a lower output voltage when transitioning to off mode, using a switching unit and control unit to bypass the step-down circuit for charging, thereby reducing power consumption and protecting the electric storage unit.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Use of energy by moving object
If the switching power supply outputs high voltage (24V) during standby mode to charge the secondary battery, then the battery can be charged, but unnecessary power consumption occurs
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by making the output voltage of the switching power supply adjustable between two states: a first output voltage during normal operation and a second output voltage during standby mode. The control unit dynamically switches between these voltage levels based on the operational mode, enabling the system to adapt its power consumption characteristics to match the actual charging requirements while maintaining reliability.
2Use of energy by stationary object
If the output transformer continuously outputs 24V during standby mode, then the control unit remains powered, but power consumption increases unnecessarily
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies parameter changes by modifying the output voltage parameter of the switching power supply based on operational mode. During standby mode, the control unit changes the output voltage from the first level (24V) to a second level, reducing the power consumption of the output transformer while still providing sufficient power to the control unit for its standby operations.
3Productivity
If high voltage charging is used, then charging speed is fast, but the electric storage unit lifespan is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by providing different voltage levels for different operational contexts. During standby mode, the system uses a lower second output voltage for charging the electric storage unit, which is sufficient for maintaining charge but gentler on the battery. During full operation, the higher first output voltage provides faster charging capability. This contextual differentiation optimizes both lifespan and charging speed.
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 power consumption by preventing unnecessary power usage in the step-down circuit and extends the lifespan of the electric storage unit by avoiding high voltages, while ensuring efficient charging of the electric storage unit.
Implementation Method 1
a switching power supply having an output transformer
Data Source
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AI summary
A power supply system includes: a switching power supply and a rectifying/smoothing circuit, the switching power supply configured to output a first output voltage in a normal output mode; a step-down circuit; a control device that controls the switching of the switching power supply between the normal output mode, a low output mode, and an off mode; and an electric storage unit charged by the output of the step-down circuit in the normal output mode and supplies power to the control device in the off mode, wherein, when charging is needed in the mode other than the normal output mode and the low output mode, the control device controls the switching power supply to output the third output voltage, thereby charging the electric storage unit.