Synchronous Rectifier Light Load Mode Control

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing synchronous rectifiers face challenges in achieving higher efficiency and better performance, particularly in managing light load conditions which affect power loss and conversion efficiency.

Innovation Solution

A synchronous rectifier system that includes a transformer with a synchronous switch controlled by a driven signal, featuring a light load comparator and timing mechanisms to periodically turn on and off the switch, and latch off the signal if not provided within a set time period, entering light load mode to reduce power loss and improve efficiency.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If the synchronous switch is continuously turned on and off to maintain rectification function, then the rectification performance is improved, but the power loss increases under light load conditions

Engineering Contradiction:
Improverectification performanceVSAvoidpower loss
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSLoss of energy

Solution Approach 1:

The synchronous rectifier dynamically adjusts its operating mode between continuous switching mode and light load mode based on real-time monitoring of the driven signal. The control circuit detects whether the driven signal is provided within a first set time period after each switching cycle, and automatically transitions between modes to optimize the balance between rectification performance and power loss under varying load conditions

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The system changes the switching parameter (driven signal provision) based on load conditions. When the load transitions to light load state, the driven signal is not provided within the first set time period, causing the synchronous switch to remain off and reducing power loss. When load increases, the driven signal is provided again, restoring continuous switching operation

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

2Loss of energy

If the driven signal is latched off to enter light load mode, then the power loss is reduced, but the response time to detect load changes increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvepower lossVSAvoidresponse time
Core Design Contradiction:
Loss of energyVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The control circuit performs preliminary monitoring of the driven signal during each switching cycle to detect light load conditions before they fully develop. By monitoring whether the driven signal is provided within the first set time period, the system can proactively transition to light load mode, reducing power loss while maintaining responsive detection of load changes

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

3Use of energy by moving object

If the synchronous switch is frequently switched to adapt to load changes, then the efficiency is improved, but the system stability deteriorates due to repeated mode changes

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveconversion efficiencyVSAvoidsystem stability
Core Design Contradiction:
Use of energy by moving objectVSStability of the object's composition

Solution Approach 1:

The system implements a hysteresis mechanism with a second set time period for exiting light load mode. When the driven signal is provided again after being latched off, the synchronous switch remains off for the second set time period before turning on, preventing premature mode transitions. This cushioning effect filters out transient disturbances and stabilizes the system by avoiding frequent mode changes while still responding to sustained load variations

Inventive Principle:
Principle #11Beforehand cushioning (Prior cushioning)

Data Source

PatentUS11031877B2Synchronous rectifiers with reduced power loss and the method thereof
Publication Date: 2021.06.08 CHENGDU MONOLITHIC POWER SYST
  • US11031877B2 patent drawing
  • US11031877B2 patent drawing
  • US11031877B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A synchronous rectifier monitors a driven signal of a synchronous switch. If the driven signal is provided within a set time length, the driven signal is latched off, to make the system enter light load mode.