USB-C Multi-Source Power Supply for Stable Parallel Current Sharing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional power supply systems face challenges in current sharing among multiple power supplies, particularly when load current dynamically changes, leading to mismatches and inefficient operation, with some modules operating in overload or no-load states, and there is a need for improved design and operation of parallel USB PD multi-source power supply systems.
Innovation Solution
A parallel multi-source power supply system with a unified output, where one power supply operates in constant current and constant voltage (CCCV) mode, and the other in constant voltage (CV) mode, with energy transfer between them determined by a charging agreement via USB PD communication protocol, allowing intelligent coordination and power management.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Power
If multiple power supplies are connected in parallel to share load current, then the power supply capacity is increased, but current sharing mismatches occur when load current changes dynamically
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a master power supply and slave power supply configuration where the master power supply acts as an intermediary to manage current distribution. The master power supply receives control signals from the load and distributes appropriate current to each power supply module, ensuring proper current sharing without requiring complex communication between all power supply units.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs dynamic parameter adjustment by changing the operating modes of different power supply units based on real-time conditions. The master power supply operates in constant current and constant voltage (CCCV) mode while slave power supplies operate in constant voltage (CV) mode, allowing adaptive response to dynamic load changes and maintaining optimal current sharing performance.
2Power
If multiple power supplies are used for parallel output, then the power capacity is increased, but current sharing technology complexity increases to balance output
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the power supply system into distinct functional roles: one master power supply and multiple slave power supplies. This segmentation simplifies the overall system architecture by dividing the complex current sharing task into manageable parts, where the master handles control and distribution while slaves execute simple voltage regulation.
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of having each power supply unit independently control its own output current (traditional approach), the patent inverts the control architecture by having a central master unit dictate current distribution. This inversion simplifies individual unit complexity while achieving coordinated parallel operation through centralized management.
3Ease of operation
If power supplies operate without coordinated control, then the system operation is simple, but some modules operate in overload or no-load states
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a feedback mechanism where the master power supply continuously monitors the operational status of slave power supplies and adjusts current distribution accordingly. This feedback loop ensures that each module operates within its optimal range, preventing both overload and no-load conditions while maintaining relatively simple operation through automated control.
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention proposes a parallel multi-source power supply system with unified output, which includes the first power supply having the first and the second USB-C connectors, the second power supply having the third USB-C connector electrically connected to the first power supply in parallel through the second USB-C connector. The first power supply is configured to operate in a constant current and constant voltage (CCCV) mode to output the first power, while the second power supply is configured to operate in a constant voltage (CV) mode to output the second power. The second power is transferred to the first power supply and unified with the first power to power an external electronic system through the unified output. The amount of the second power transferred to the first power supply is determined by a charging agreement through communicating between the first power supply and the external electronic system.