Voltage Converter Extending Input Range via Dynamic Mode Switching
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing voltage converters struggle to effectively step down high voltages to lower voltages across a wide range, particularly beyond the typical universal input power supply range, often resulting in inefficient power output and potential damage from excessive voltage.
Innovation Solution
A method and system that convert alternating current at high voltage into a series of direct current pulses at a lower voltage and higher frequency, using a threshold to determine when to block or pass pulses, thereby smoothing the output to provide a stable direct current at a lower voltage, extending the input voltage range beyond conventional limits.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If conventional voltage converters are used to step down high voltage, then voltage conversion is achieved, but the input voltage range is limited and efficiency deteriorates beyond typical universal input power supply range
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs dynamic switching between two operational modes: a bypass mode for low voltage inputs and a conversion mode for high voltage inputs. The system dynamically adjusts its operation based on the input voltage level, using a controller to switch between direct pass-through and active voltage conversion, thereby maintaining efficiency across a wide voltage range
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediate buffering stage with controllable switches and energy storage elements (inductors and capacitors) that mediate between the high voltage input and the low voltage output. This intermediary circuitry enables efficient voltage transformation by controlling the timing and path of energy transfer, reducing losses compared to direct conversion
2Adaptability or versatility
If voltage conversion is performed for high voltage inputs, then output voltage is reduced, but circuit complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the voltage conversion function into two distinct operational paths: a bypass path for low voltage inputs and a conversion path for high voltage inputs. This segmentation allows the system to use simple direct connection when possible and complex conversion only when necessary, reducing overall system complexity while maintaining wide voltage range capability
Solution Approach 2:
The patent designs a universal input stage that can handle both low and high voltage inputs through the same initial circuitry, with a controller that directs the appropriate processing path. This multi-functional approach consolidates the input handling and reduces the need for separate dedicated circuits for different voltage ranges
3Power
If high voltage is directly applied to power supply, then power delivery is maintained, but damage from excessive voltage occurs
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements preliminary voltage checking and conditional routing before power is delivered to the load. The controller预先 determines whether the input voltage requires conversion and switches the circuit configuration accordingly before full power is applied, preventing overvoltage damage from occurring in the first place
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses feedback control to monitor the input voltage level and adjust the circuit operation accordingly. The controller continuously senses the input voltage and adjusts the switching between bypass and conversion modes to maintain safe operating levels while preserving power delivery capability
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 ensures acceptable output power from a wide range of input voltages, including beyond 700 VAC, by converting high voltage inputs into stable direct current outputs with reduced ripple, enhancing the operational safety and efficiency of power supplies.
Implementation Method 1
converting the alternating current into a first series of direct current pulses
Implementation Method 2
a first plurality of switches arranged in a bridge configuration... each switch having a drain coupled to a respective transformer winding
Implementation Method 3
a first plurality of transformers, each transformer having a primary winding and a secondary winding... with a turns ratio to output a transformed voltage
Implementation Method 4
a second plurality of capacitors arranged in parallel with respective second windings of the transformers... to smooth the second series of pulses
Data Source
AI summary
A system and method for converting a relatively high voltage into a relatively low voltage, the method comprising the steps of: receiving a first series of pulses at the relatively high voltage and a first frequency; and converting the first series of pulses into a second series of pulses at a second voltage lower than the relatively high voltage and a second frequency higher than the first frequency. The first series of pulses may be a waveform and the converting step may be triggered by the waveform of the first series of pulses exceeding the relatively low voltage. The first series of pulses may be direct current pulses and the receiving step may comprise receiving an alternating current voltage and rectifying the alternating current voltage into the first series of pulses. The second frequency may be some multiple of the first frequency, such as twice the first frequency.