Electronic Subassembly with Zero Standby Power Consumption
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing electronic devices continue to consume reactive energy in standby and off modes, despite regulations limiting active power consumption, leading to inefficiencies and increased network load, particularly with the rise of renewable energy sources.
Innovation Solution
An electronic subassembly with a power relay and control subassembly that automatically shuts down devices, eliminating both active and reactive power consumption by synchronizing relay operations with zero crossings of the electrical network, using electromechanical or electronic relays for efficient switching and galvanic isolation, and incorporating a low-voltage ignition power supply for minimal inrush current.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Use of energy by moving object
If conventional power supply circuits are used to meet active power consumption limits, then active power consumption is reduced to comply with regulations, but reactive power consumption increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The power supply circuit is segmented into two distinct circuits: a first power supply circuit that consumes no apparent power (neither active nor reactive) for standby and off modes, and a second power supply circuit that provides full power when the device is operating. This segmentation allows the device to meet regulatory requirements for active power consumption while eliminating reactive power consumption in standby modes through the use of separate circuit topologies optimized for different operational states.
2Ease of operation
If a power relay is used to switch power supply, then power consumption can be controlled, but inrush current and relay contact wear increase
Solution Approach 1:
The circuit performs preliminary action by pre-charging capacitors and preparing the second power supply circuit before the relay contacts close. This preliminary preparation reduces the inrush current that would otherwise occur when the relay switches, thereby extending relay contact lifespan while maintaining effective power control functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
Capacitors are introduced as intermediary energy storage elements that buffer the power transfer during relay switching. These capacitors absorb and release energy to smooth out current transitions, reducing stress on relay contacts and improving reliability without compromising the power control capability.
3Speed
If devices remain connected to the electrical network in standby mode, then they can be quickly activated, but apparent power consumption (active and reactive) increases
Solution Approach 1:
The circuit employs periodic action through a low-power monitoring mechanism that periodically checks for activation signals while consuming no apparent power during standby. When activation is detected, the full power supply is engaged. This approach enables rapid activation response while eliminating continuous apparent power consumption during standby periods.
Solution Approach 2:
The harmful aspect of continuous connection (apparent power consumption) is extracted and separated from the beneficial aspect (quick activation). The first power supply circuit provides a low-power standby mode with zero apparent power consumption, while the second power supply circuit provides full power when needed. This extraction allows the device to remain connected for quick activation without the penalty of continuous apparent power consumption.
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 solution achieves zero apparent power consumption when devices are stopped or on standby, reducing energy wastage and compliance with regulations, while providing additional features like remote control and extended relay lifespan, thus enhancing energy efficiency and safety.
Implementation Method 1
a power relay comprising at least one switch whose first pole is connected to a phase or pole of the electrical network
Implementation Method 2
extension of the service life of electromechanical relay contacts through synchronized closing near a zero crossing of the AC mains voltage
Implementation Method 3
a low-voltage starting power supply subassembly, which is at least partly separate from the low-voltage running state-maintaining power supply subassembly, and which is arranged and sized to at least momentarily supply said control subassembly
Data Source
Figure 1~3
Figure 4~5
Figure 6~8
AI summary
According to a first aspect, the invention relates to a user-activated, automatically shut-off electronic subassembly (1) with zero apparent power consumption when off and in standby mode. The electronic subassembly according to the invention is intended to form the core of a standby power cut-off device or a charger for mobile devices, or to be integrated as an interface with the electrical network (3) in an audiovisual, computer, or household appliance. The subassembly according to the invention includes, in particular, a connection to the electrical network (3), a power relay (5), two low-voltage power supply subassemblies (2, 10), a control subassembly (4) implemented using hardwired or programmed logic, and at least one means (7) for momentarily activating said low-voltage power supply subassembly (10).According to a second aspect, the invention relates to a system implementing an electronic subassembly according to the invention to form a consumer or professional electronic device. According to a third aspect, the invention relates to a method implemented in an electronic subassembly having an apparent power consumption of zero when off and in standby mode.