Switching Power Supply Load Sharing for Variable Efficiency
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing power supply units for electronic devices face challenges in optimizing efficiency across varying load conditions, as they are often less efficient at lower loads and more efficient at higher loads, and require expensive digital logic and load balancers for rapid response, which is costly and inefficient.
Innovation Solution
A power supply unit with multiple power conversion blocks that dynamically coordinate power supply based on load conditions, sequencing power contributions to maximize efficiency, using predesignated open circuit voltage settings to switch between blocks for optimal operation, thereby reducing reliance on expensive logic and external signals.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of energy
If a single power conversion block is used, then the device complexity is reduced, but the power conversion efficiency deteriorates under varying load conditions
Solution Approach 1:
The power supply is divided into multiple independent power conversion blocks (first power conversion block, second power conversion block), each capable of operating independently to handle different load conditions. This segmentation allows the system to optimize efficiency by selecting the appropriate block based on current power demands.
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically switches between different power conversion blocks based on load conditions. The first block operates during high-power transitions (awake mode) while the second block takes over during lower power states (sleep mode), creating a dynamic adaptation to varying power requirements that optimizes overall efficiency.
2Speed
If digital logic and load balancers are used for rapid response, then the response speed is improved, but the device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The power conversion blocks are designed with inherent characteristics that enable automatic load sharing and switching without requiring complex external control logic. The blocks self-regulate based on their electrical characteristics and the load conditions, eliminating the need for expensive digital logic and load balancers while maintaining rapid response capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The system utilizes changes in electrical parameters (voltage, current) to naturally determine which power conversion block should be active. By monitoring output voltage and current levels, the system automatically transitions between blocks based on predefined thresholds, achieving rapid response through parameter-based control rather than complex logic.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple power conversion blocks are used, then the adaptability to different load conditions is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple power conversion blocks are designed with universal characteristics, where each block can operate independently or in combination with others. The blocks share common output nodes and control mechanisms, allowing them to universally handle various load conditions without requiring specialized circuitry for each scenario.
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 enhances power conversion efficiency by allocating power to the most efficient converter for each load condition, reducing energy consumption and extending battery life without the need for costly load balancing logic, while providing rapid transitions between power converters.
Implementation Method 1
a first power conversion block to convert the electrical power input to a first output power supply share and a second power conversion block to convert the electrical power input to a second output power supply share
Data Source
AI summary
A power supply unit provides power to a common output node. The power supply unit includes a first power conversion block electrically coupled to convert the electrical power input to a first output power supply share supplied to the common output node. The first power conversion block is configured to decrease output voltage from the first power conversion block based on output current from the first power conversion block reaching a rated current level. A second power conversion block is electrically coupled to convert the electrical power input to a second output power supply share supplied to the common output node. The second power conversion block is configured with a predesignated open circuit voltage setting and is further configured to contribute the second output power supply share to the common output node based on the output voltage at the common output node decreasing to the predesignated electrical voltage setting.