Smallest, Cheapest 110VAC -> 20VDC, 10AMP Power Supply

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the challenge of finding a compact and affordable power supply that converts 110VAC to 20VDC at 10AMP, targeting a size of approximately 5" x 3" x 2" and a price under $100. The user highlights a significant barrier at around 120 Watts due to U/L certification requirements, which necessitate airflow management, thus increasing size and cost. Two design options are proposed, with the primary differentiator being cost-effectiveness. The conversation emphasizes the importance of understanding patent requirements versus engineering specifications.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of power supply specifications, particularly voltage and current ratings.
  • Familiarity with U/L certification standards and their impact on product design.
  • Knowledge of patent application processes and requirements.
  • Basic principles of electrical engineering related to power conversion.
NEXT STEPS
  • Research compact power supply solutions that meet 110VAC to 20VDC conversion requirements.
  • Investigate U/L certification processes and airflow management for high-power devices.
  • Explore alternative design strategies for power supplies under $100.
  • Learn about patent application strategies and how to document engineering requirements effectively.
USEFUL FOR

This discussion is beneficial for electrical engineers, product designers, patent applicants, and anyone involved in developing compact power supply solutions.

Magic-Rat
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All,

Well, I have this idea for a patent ... but ... it requires a power supply ... and I can't find one that meets my needs.

I need to come up with the smallest, cheapest 110VAC -> 20VDC, 10AMP (or close to that) power converter (about 190 - 200 Watts), constant voltage.

Small means about 5" X 3" X 2".

Ideally, I would find some commercially available power supply for less than $100 a copy and adapt it ... but, no such luck. I can't find one that size at any price.

There seems to be a barrier at about 120 Watts. This is due (I think) to the U/L certification requirement for 30 cfm air flow (fans) to get any more power than about 120 watts. So, things above 120Watts get a lot bigger (about twice as big in terms of form factor).

But, maybe ... hopefully ... I'm wrong about that.

I have two design ideas and the primary factor that differentiates the two is cost. A small $100 or less unit makes my desired plan the best option. If price is above $100 then I must go to the second option (which allows a bigger power supply but requires lots more cables and other manufucturing ... it's not as good a design ... but it will work).

I dunno.

So ... anybody think of anything??
 
Engineering news on Phys.org
You must realize that if you are using this for a patent application, then whoever answers you is entitled to a share of the profits. (And it won't be me, because I don't know this kind of stuff.)
 
Patents are not concerned with price. Also, if this is only a suppoting component (aka. not a critical part of your novel idea) just write your requirements for this secondary device and don't worry about the precise implementation. Your patent only needs to describe your idea. It is not the same as an engineering document/plan. i.e. you don't take a patent to the factory. Took me a long time to figure that out too.

Note This:
http://www.gravitywarpdrive.com/Adobe_pdf_Files/USP_3626606_Orig_Doc.pdf

Not 100% sure this is real but the uspo does know of it. Anyway, hopefully you get the point.
 

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