Transformer Module Mitigates DC Voltage Droop
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Solution Overview
Problem
Voltage droop occurs in direct current circuits when multiple capacitive loads are connected, leading to temporary decreases in output voltage, which can affect device performance and violate standards, and conventional solutions using numerous capacitors are costly and space-intensive.
Innovation Solution
A system and method utilizing a transformer module with impedance, where the first and second outputs are connected to different windings of the transformer, allowing current to flow in opposite directions, mitigating voltage droop by inducing magnetic flux to increase voltage on the first output when the second capacitive load connects, potentially reducing or eliminating the need for capacitors.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If multiple capacitors are used at each USB power output to reduce voltage droop, then voltage stability is improved, but cost and circuit board space increase substantially
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a transformer module as an intermediary component between the voltage source and multiple USB power outputs. This transformer module with impedance coupling provides isolation and voltage regulation, reducing voltage droop effects without requiring large numbers of capacitors at each output. The transformer acts as a mediator that manages the electrical interactions between multiple outputs sharing a common voltage source.
2Reliability
If more capacitors are added to each output to reduce voltage droop, then voltage stability during transient load is improved, but circuit board space and manufacturing cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The transformer module serves as an intermediary that provides voltage regulation and isolation, reducing the need for extensive capacitor banks at each output. This intermediary component handles the transient load management centrally rather than requiring distributed capacitor solutions at each USB port.
Solution Approach 2:
The transformer module performs multiple functions: it provides voltage regulation, isolates outputs from each other, manages transient load effects, and reduces the overall capacitor requirements across the circuit board. This multi-functional component replaces what would otherwise require multiple separate capacitor assemblies.
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 effectively counteracts voltage droop, satisfying USB standards by increasing voltage on one output when current is supplied to another, reducing the requirement for capacitors and saving space and costs, while maintaining stable DC power distribution.
Implementation Method 1
the transformer module is configured to mitigate droop of the first voltage to the first output upon the second capacitive load being connected to the second output and receiving inrush current by magnetic flux induced in the transformer module by the inrush current flowing in the second winding causing additional voltage to be provided by the first winding to the first output
Data Source
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AI summary
A system and method for mitigating voltage droop in a direct current circuit configured to power multiple capacitive loads are presented. A voltage source (110) is configured to output a direct current voltage to power the multiple capacitive loads (140-1,140-2). First and second outputs (130-1,130-2) electrically coupled with the voltage source such that the outputs, when electrically coupled with capacitive loads, provide a voltage to the capacitive load may be provided. A transformer module (120-1), comprising an impedance, is electrically coupled with the first output and the second output. When the first capacitive load is electrically coupled with the first output, the transformer is configured to mitigate droop of the first voltage to the first output upon the second capacitive load being connected to the second output and receiving inrush current.