Transformer Output Voltage Control to Minimize Ripple in Image Forming
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Solution Overview
Problem
In high voltage power source systems for image forming apparatuses, existing technologies face challenges in preventing voltage ripple and reducing power consumption when changing output voltage, often resulting in increased power consumption and potential image defects due to duty signal switching.
Innovation Solution
A power source apparatus with a transformer and a switching element, controlled by a unit that adjusts the duty of the drive signal based on threshold values to minimize voltage ripple, by using different duty settings for increasing and decreasing output voltage, and incorporating a load current detection circuit to adjust threshold values based on load conditions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If the duty of the drive pulse signal is switched when the output voltage range is exceeded, then the output voltage can be changed, but voltage ripple is generated and power consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic duty ratio adjustment based on the target output voltage. The control unit automatically selects between a first duty ratio (for lower voltages) and a second duty ratio (for higher voltages) depending on the required output voltage level. This dynamic adaptation allows the system to maintain optimal performance across different voltage ranges without generating harmful ripples, as the duty ratio is precisely matched to the operating conditions.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the duty ratio parameter of the drive pulse signal based on the target output voltage. When the target voltage exceeds a predetermined threshold, the control unit switches from a first duty ratio to a second duty ratio. This parameter change enables the system to achieve different output voltage levels while maintaining stable operation and avoiding voltage ripple generation that would occur with fixed duty ratio control.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the duty of the drive pulse signal is switched to change output voltage, then voltage range adaptability is improved, but power consumption of the switching element increases
Solution Approach 1:
The control unit dynamically adjusts the duty ratio of the drive pulse signal according to the target output voltage. By selecting appropriate duty ratios (first duty ratio for lower voltages, second duty ratio for higher voltages), the system achieves wide output voltage range adaptability while optimizing the switching element's operation. This dynamic control prevents excessive power consumption that would result from using inappropriate fixed duty ratios across all voltage ranges.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes parameter changes in the drive pulse signal's duty ratio to achieve both wide output voltage range and efficient power consumption. The control unit modifies the duty ratio parameter based on the required output voltage level, ensuring that the switching element operates in its optimal efficiency region for each voltage range, thereby reducing overall power consumption while maintaining versatility.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the frequency or duty of the drive pulse signal is switched to change output voltage, then output voltage control flexibility is improved, but image defects may occur due to generated ripple
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic duty ratio control where the control unit automatically selects between a first duty ratio and a second duty ratio based on the target output voltage level. This dynamic adjustment provides flexible output voltage control while preventing the generation of voltage ripple that would cause image defects. The system adapts the duty ratio in real-time to match the required voltage level, ensuring stable output suitable for high-quality image formation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the duty ratio parameter of the drive pulse signal according to the target output voltage to achieve flexible voltage control without generating harmful ripples. By precisely controlling the duty ratio parameter (switching between first and second duty ratios at appropriate voltage thresholds), the system maintains stable output voltage that prevents image defects while providing the necessary control flexibility for different operating conditions.
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 voltage ripple and power consumption, allowing for stable output voltage changes without switching the duty signal, thereby preventing image defects and optimizing power management.
Implementation Method 1
a transformer (201) including a primary coil (201a) and a secondary coil (201b)
Implementation Method 2
a switching element (203) which is connected in series to the primary coil (201a), and is configured to be turned on or off according to a control signal input to the switching element
Data Source
AI summary
A power source apparatus including a control unit configured to output a control signal to a switching element to switch a target voltage of an output voltage from a transformer. In a case of increasing the output voltage, the control unit outputs the control signal having a first duty when the target voltage is lower than a first threshold value, and outputs the control signal having a second duty larger than the first duty when the target voltage is switched to a value equal to or higher than the first threshold value. In a case of reducing the output voltage, the control unit outputs the control signal having the second duty when the target voltage is equal to or higher than a second threshold value, and outputs the control signal having the first duty when the target voltage is switched to a value lower than the second threshold value.