Dynamic Transformer Turn Ratio Control for Power Supply Hold-Up Time
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional methods for extending power supply hold-up time in information handling systems require large capacitors, increasing physical size and compromising power density, while existing solutions fail to dynamically adjust transformer turn ratios to maintain output voltage effectively during AC input disruptions.
Innovation Solution
A method that dynamically controls the transformer turn ratio by switching between different transformer windings using transistor-based control circuits, adjusting the output voltage characteristics in response to changes in AC input voltage, thereby extending the hold-up time without the need for additional capacitors.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Duration of action of moving object
If large capacitors are added to extend hold-up time, then the power supply unit can provide useful power longer after AC input is disconnected, but the physical size of the power supply unit increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by making the transformer turn ratio adjustable rather than fixed. The controller dynamically switches between different primary windings (first primary winding with more turns, second primary winding with fewer turns) based on the input voltage level. This dynamic adjustment allows the system to extend hold-up time without requiring large capacitors, as the transformer can adapt its transformation ratio to maintain output voltage during the hold-up period.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the transformer turn ratio parameter dynamically during operation. When input voltage drops below a threshold during hold-up mode, the controller switches from the first primary winding to the second primary winding, effectively changing the turn ratio to compensate for the voltage drop. This parameter change enables extended hold-up time without increasing physical size.
2Duration of action of moving object
If conventional methods are used to extend hold-up time, then the power supply can maintain output voltage longer, but power density is reduced due to increased physical size
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses dynamic adjustment of the transformer turn ratio to extend hold-up time without adding bulky capacitors. By switching between different primary windings based on voltage thresholds, the system maintains power density while achieving extended hold-up capability. The dynamic nature of the solution avoids the need for additional energy storage components that would reduce power density.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the operational parameters of the transformer by switching between different winding configurations. This parameter change allows the system to extend hold-up time through control rather than through additional physical components, thereby maintaining high power density.
3Reliability
If the transformer turn ratio is dynamically adjusted, then the output voltage can be maintained more effectively during AC input disruptions, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic turn ratio adjustment through a controller that monitors input voltage and switches between different primary windings based on voltage thresholds. This dynamic control mechanism reliably maintains output voltage during AC input disruptions. The complexity is managed by using a relatively simple switching control scheme rather than complex continuous regulation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs feedback control where the controller monitors the input voltage level and automatically switches between windings based on predetermined voltage thresholds. This feedback mechanism ensures reliable output voltage maintenance during hold-up mode while keeping the control logic relatively simple and straightforward.
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 density and efficiency by dynamically adjusting the transformer turn ratio, effectively extending the power supply hold-up time and maintaining system performance without increasing physical size, thus addressing the limitations of conventional methods.
Implementation Method 1
A transformer unit may include a first primary transformer coil, a second primary transformer coil, and a secondary transformer coil
Implementation Method 2
A first control transistor may switch a first transformer winding to an on state in response to the input voltage being above a voltage threshold level
Data Source
AI summary
In one embodiment a method of extending power supply hold-up time by controlling a transformer turn ratio may include an input capacitor receiving an input voltage of a transformer unit. A first control transistor may switch a first transformer winding to an on state in response to the input voltage being above a voltage threshold level. The first control transistor may switch the first transformer winding to an off state in response to the input voltage being below the voltage threshold level. A second control transistor may switch a second transformer winding to an on state in response to the input voltage being below the voltage threshold level, wherein the first transformer winding and the second transformer winding may include separate windings located on a same side of a magnetic core of the transformer unit. In an embodiment the transformer unit may include a power supply unit.