A multi-port gallium nitride charger intelligent power distribution method and system

Abstract

This application pertains to power control technology, specifically relating to a smart power distribution method and system for a multi-port gallium nitride (GaN) charger. The method includes: acquiring the real-time power request value of each output interface; identifying the target output interface whose real-time power request value exceeds the safe output limit of a single power conversion module; determining a power gap based on the difference between the real-time power request value of the target output interface and the safe output limit of a single power conversion module; determining the target power conversion module based on the power gap and the available output capacity of each power conversion module; determining safe parallel connection conditions based on the connection status of the reconfigurable output interconnect network and the output voltage parameters and isolation status of the target power conversion module; forming a parallel output path when the conditions are met; outputting power to the target output interface according to the parallel output path; and updating the parallel output path based on feedback information. This application can improve power supply continuity, resource utilization, and operational stability.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application belongs to the field of power control technology, specifically a method and system for intelligent power distribution in a multi-port gallium nitride charger. Background Technology

[0002] With the continuous increase in the number of high-power fast charging terminals, charging equipment is developing towards high power density, miniaturization, and multi-interface parallel power supply. Gallium nitride (GaN) devices, due to their fast switching speed, low loss, and small size, have become an important foundation for the realization of next-generation charging power supplies. For the industry, greater power supply flexibility is not only related to terminal charging efficiency, but also to the consistent design of power supply products, thermal management strategies, reliability assessment, and full lifecycle operation and maintenance capabilities. Especially with the increasing penetration of industrial big data into power supply design, testing, manufacturing, and operation analysis, how to enable multi-interface power supplies to have more granular power scheduling capabilities has become a crucial factor affecting product competitiveness.

[0003] Most existing multi-port chargers use fixed power grouping or static allocation methods, resulting in a relatively fixed relationship between each power conversion module and the output interface. When a high-power device is connected to a certain output interface and a sudden power surge occurs, a single power conversion module can easily reach its output limit, while the remaining capacity of other modules cannot be connected to that output interface in time, leading to insufficient power supply to the target interface. At the same time, existing solutions do not respond promptly to protocol renegotiation, sudden load changes, and module state changes, easily resulting in a situation where resource idleness and local overload coexist, making it difficult to balance output continuity, power supply security, and overall resource utilization. Summary of the Invention

[0004] To address the above issues, this application provides a smart power allocation method and system for a multi-port gallium nitride charger, which at least solves the problem of how to achieve safe reconfiguration and dynamic power supply of multiple power conversion modules when the power demand of a single output interface exceeds the safe output capacity of a single power conversion module.

[0005] To achieve the above objectives, the technical solution adopted in this application is as follows: In a first aspect, this application provides a smart power distribution method for a multi-port gallium nitride (GaN) charger. The multi-port GaN charger includes multiple output interfaces, multiple power conversion modules, and a reconfigurable output interconnection network. The method includes: Obtain the real-time power request value of each output interface, and determine the target output interface whose real-time power request value exceeds the safe output limit of a single power conversion module; The power gap is determined based on the difference between the real-time power request value of the target output interface and the safe output limit of a single power conversion module, and the target power conversion module is determined based on the power gap and the available output capacity of each power conversion module. Based on the connection status of the reconfigurable output interconnection network and the output voltage parameters and isolation status of the target power conversion module, it is determined whether the target power conversion module and the target output interface meet the safe parallel connection conditions. If the safe parallel connection conditions are met, the reconfigurable output interconnection network is controlled to connect the target power conversion module in parallel to the target output interface to form a parallel output path. Power is output to the target output interface according to the parallel output path, and the parallel output path is updated according to the feedback information of the target output interface when the output power does not meet the real-time power request value.

[0006] In one possible implementation, obtaining the real-time power request value of each output interface and determining the target output interface whose real-time power request value exceeds the safe output limit of a single power conversion module includes: obtaining the output voltage, output current, and protocol negotiated power of each output interface; determining the real-time power request value of each output interface based on the output voltage, output current, and protocol negotiated power of each output interface; and determining the output interface whose real-time power request value exceeds the safe output limit of a single power conversion module within multiple consecutive sampling periods as the target output interface.

[0007] In one possible implementation, the real-time power request value of each output interface is determined based on the output voltage, output current, and protocol negotiated power of each output interface, including: determining the measured output power based on the output voltage and output current of each output interface; and determining the real-time power request value of each output interface based on the measured output power and protocol negotiated power.

[0008] In one possible implementation, a power gap is determined based on the difference between the real-time power request value of the target output interface and the safe output limit of a single power conversion module, and a target power conversion module is determined based on the power gap and the available output capacity of each power conversion module. This includes: determining the power gap based on the difference between the real-time power request value of the target output interface and the safe output limit of a single power conversion module; selecting schedulable power conversion modules from multiple power conversion modules; determining the number of power conversion modules to be called based on the power gap and the available output capacity of each schedulable power conversion module; and selecting the power conversion module corresponding to the number of power conversion modules to be called from the schedulable power conversion modules as the target power conversion module.

[0009] In one possible implementation, selecting schedulable power conversion modules from multiple power conversion modules includes: identifying power conversion modules that are not involved in output as idle power conversion modules; identifying power conversion modules whose output power is lower than a preset load threshold and whose connected output interfaces still meet the real-time power request value after the corresponding power conversion module has transferred out part of its output capacity as low-load power conversion modules; and selecting schedulable power conversion modules from idle power conversion modules and low-load power conversion modules.

[0010] In one possible implementation, based on the connection status of the reconfigurable output interconnect network and the output voltage parameters and isolation status of the target power conversion module, it is determined whether the target power conversion module and the target output interface meet the safe parallel connection conditions. This includes: obtaining the target output voltage, actual output voltage, and isolation switch status of each target power conversion module; and determining that the target power conversion module and the target output interface meet the safe parallel connection conditions if the target output voltages of each target power conversion module are consistent, the difference between the actual output voltages of any two target power conversion modules is less than a preset voltage difference threshold, and all isolation switches are in the conduction state.

[0011] In one possible implementation, the reconfigurable output interconnect network is controlled to connect the target power conversion modules in parallel to the target output interface to form a parallel output path, including: synchronizing the output voltage of the target power conversion modules; sequentially closing the interconnect switches in the reconfigurable output interconnect network according to a preset access order; after the parallel connection is completed, the output current of each target power conversion module is collected, and the output control parameters of each target power conversion module are adjusted according to the collected output current of each target power conversion module.

[0012] In one possible implementation, updating the parallel output path based on feedback information from the target output interface includes: obtaining feedback information from the target output interface, including output voltage, output current, and protocol-negotiated power; determining the output power based on the output voltage and output current; and re-determining the target power conversion module and updating the parallel output path if the output power is lower than the real-time power request value or if the protocol-negotiated power changes.

[0013] In one possible implementation, re-determining the target power conversion module includes: determining the priority of each output interface according to the power supply priority order of each output interface; releasing the power conversion module from the lower priority output interface according to the priority of each output interface; and including the released power conversion module as at least a part of the re-determined target power conversion modules.

[0014] Secondly, this application provides a smart power distribution system for a multi-port gallium nitride (GaN) charger, used to implement a smart power distribution method for a multi-port GaN charger. The system includes: The request identification module is used to obtain the real-time power request value of each output interface and determine the target output interface whose real-time power request value exceeds the safe output limit of a single power conversion module. The scheduling determination module is used to determine the power gap based on the difference between the real-time power request value of the target output interface and the safe output limit of a single power conversion module, and to determine the target power conversion module based on the power gap and the available output capacity of each power conversion module. The parallel control module is used to determine whether the target power conversion module and the target output interface meet the safe parallel connection conditions based on the connection status of the reconfigurable output interconnection network and the output voltage parameters and isolation status of the target power conversion module. If the safe parallel connection conditions are met, the module controls the reconfigurable output interconnection network to connect the target power conversion module in parallel to the target output interface to form a parallel output path. The feedback update module is used to output power to the target output interface according to the parallel output path, and update the parallel output path according to the feedback information of the target output interface when the output power does not meet the real-time power request value.

[0015] Compared with existing technologies, the advantages and beneficial effects of this application are as follows: By using the technology of real-time acquisition of output voltage, output current and protocol negotiation power, the target output interface can be accurately identified, avoiding the limitations of power distribution based solely on static configuration.

[0016] By determining the target power conversion module based on the power gap and the available output capacity of each power conversion module, the available resources can be called up on demand, and the remaining output capacity can be reorganized around the target output interface.

[0017] By introducing a reconfigurable output interconnect network and combining output voltage parameters and isolation status for safe parallel connection judgment, the safe access of multiple power conversion modules is realized, reducing the risks of parallel mismatch, backflow, and impact.

[0018] By continuously acquiring feedback information and dynamically updating the parallel output path after its establishment, timely responses to protocol renegotiation, load fluctuations, and power shortages are achieved, enabling the power supply structure to be adjusted according to changes in demand.

[0019] Through the above-mentioned collaborative control methods, the output capacity is aggregated, the power supply continuity is maintained, the power resource utilization rate is improved, and the overall operation stability is enhanced in scenarios with high power demand for a single port. Attached Figure Description

[0020] Figure 1 This is a flowchart illustrating the method described in this application; Figure 2 This is a block diagram of the system modules of this application. Detailed Implementation

[0021] To enable those skilled in the art to better understand the technical solution, the present application will be described in detail below with reference to the embodiments. The description in this section is only exemplary and explanatory, and should not be used to limit the scope of protection of the present application in any way.

[0022] Intelligent power allocation refers to a control mechanism in multi-output interface power systems that dynamically identifies, matches, and reconfigures available power resources based on interface load status, protocol negotiation results, module operating capabilities, and system constraints. For multi-port gallium nitride (GaN) chargers, intelligent power allocation is not simply a power limit switching process, but a comprehensive control process that coordinates the scheduling of power conversion modules, output paths, and control strategies for multi-interface concurrent power supply scenarios. With the increasing application of industrial big data in the design verification, operation monitoring, and status analysis of power products, chargers now have a more granular basis for collecting and analyzing various electrical parameters, load change information, and module operating status. This makes it possible for power allocation methods to evolve from static configuration to real-time perception and dynamic response. Based on this, this application proposes an intelligent power allocation scheme oriented towards the target output interface to address the dynamic scheduling problem of power resources in multi-port GaN chargers, enabling on-demand calling, safe parallel connection, and path updating of power conversion modules.

[0023] like Figure 1 As shown, a smart power distribution method for a multi-port gallium nitride (GaN) charger is disclosed. The multi-port GaN charger includes multiple output ports, multiple power conversion modules, and a reconfigurable output interconnect network. The method includes: Obtain the real-time power request value of each output interface, and determine the target output interface whose real-time power request value exceeds the safe output limit of a single power conversion module; In this embodiment, the control unit of the multi-port gallium nitride charger periodically collects the operating status of each output interface to form interface-level power demand information. Each output interface corresponds to a voltage sampling circuit, a current sampling circuit, and a charging protocol control circuit. Within a unified sampling period, the control unit reads the output voltage, output current, and protocol negotiation results of each output interface to generate a real-time sampling record corresponding to each output interface. The control unit determines the real-time power request value of each output interface based on the real-time sampling record and compares the real-time power request value with the safe output limit of a single power conversion module. The safe output limit can be preset according to the rated continuous output capability, heat dissipation conditions, and long-term operating margin of a single power conversion module. If the real-time power request value of a certain output interface is higher than the safe output limit for multiple consecutive sampling periods, the output interface is determined as the target output interface, and the request information corresponding to the target output interface is output to the subsequent power scheduling stage.

[0024] The process involves obtaining the real-time power request value of each output interface and determining the target output interface whose real-time power request value exceeds the safe output limit of a single power conversion module. This includes: obtaining the output voltage, output current, and protocol negotiated power of each output interface; determining the real-time power request value of each output interface based on the output voltage, output current, and protocol negotiated power of each output interface; and identifying the output interface whose real-time power request value exceeds the safe output limit of a single power conversion module within multiple consecutive sampling periods as the target output interface.

[0025] In one embodiment, the control unit limits the acquisition sources, time alignment methods, over-limit trigger conditions, and target output interface selection rules for output voltage, output current, and protocol negotiation power to avoid misjudgments caused by interface momentary jitter, device plug-in / plug-out transients, or protocol renegotiation transients. Each output interface in the multi-port gallium nitride charger is connected to an independent sampling front-end. Voltage sampling can be obtained through a voltage divider sampling circuit, and current sampling can be obtained through a sampling resistor and an amplification circuit, or directly through a current detection chip. The control unit polls or reads the sampled values ​​of each output interface in parallel according to a fixed sampling period. The sampling period can be set to five milliseconds to twenty milliseconds, based on the refresh rate of the charger's internal control loop, the refresh rate of the protocol status, and the rate of interface load change.

[0026] An excessively long sampling period will cause a lag in the response to sudden load changes; an excessively short sampling period will increase the computational burden on the control unit and amplify sampling noise. The protocol-negotiated power is used to characterize the target power supply capacity corresponding to the current charging protocol interaction between the output interface and the external power device. This power can be directly provided by the protocol control circuit, or it can be calculated from the negotiated target voltage and target current.

[0027] The control unit performs time alignment on the output voltage, output current, and protocol-negotiated power within the same sampling period to form a unified interface status record. The interface status record includes at least the interface identifier, output voltage, output current, measured output power, protocol-negotiated power, real-time power request value, over-limit count, and interface validity flag. The interface validity flag indicates whether the current output interface has completed device access and protocol identification. If the output interface is in an unloaded state, a handshake incomplete state, or an abnormal disconnection state, the control unit will not include that output interface in the target output interface judgment set. The safe output limit of a single power conversion module can be written to the control unit during the factory configuration stage or corrected during operation according to a temperature derating strategy.

[0028] When the temperature is high, the control unit can appropriately lower the safe output limit to ensure that a single power conversion module maintains continuous and stable output. The target output interface is determined using a continuous over-limit triggering method. The control unit sets an independent over-limit counter for each output interface. When the real-time power request value exceeds the safe output limit, the over-limit counter increments by one; when the real-time power request value falls below the safe output limit, the over-limit counter is reset to zero or decrements according to a preset decay rule. The number of consecutive sampling periods can be set to three to ten, based on the duration of the load transient and the tolerance for misjudgment.

[0029] If the count value reaches the trigger threshold, the corresponding output interface is marked as the target output interface. If multiple output interfaces simultaneously meet the trigger conditions, the control unit can filter the target output interface for priority processing based on the over-limit range, protocol priority, or service priority, and retain other output interfaces that meet the conditions as candidate output interfaces. When events such as device insertion, device removal, protocol renegotiation, or abnormal voltage drop occur, the control unit resets the over-limit counter of the corresponding output interface to prevent the old state from affecting the new round of judgment.

[0030] The real-time power request value of each output interface is determined based on the output voltage, output current, and protocol negotiated power of each output interface, including: determining the measured output power based on the output voltage and output current of each output interface; and determining the real-time power request value of each output interface based on the measured output power and protocol negotiated power.

[0031] In one embodiment, the control unit limits the way the real-time power request value is formed to distinguish between the power actually output by the output interface and the power currently requested by the output interface, so as to avoid underestimating the demand of high-power devices in the initial stage of connection due to judging solely based on the measured output power.

[0032] After sampling the output voltage and current of each output interface, the control unit first determines the measured output power of each output interface. The measured output power characterizes the actual power level that the output interface has already output to the external device within the current sampling period. The negotiated power characterizes the target power level that the current output interface should provide after the charger and the external device handshake according to the charging protocol. The control unit combines the measured output power and the negotiated power to determine the real-time power request value. If the output interface has just completed high-voltage, high-current negotiation, and the external device is still in the power ramp-up phase, the measured output power is usually lower than the negotiated power. In this case, directly using the measured output power as the judgment criterion would mislead the control unit into believing that the current power demand is low.

[0033] Based on this, when the negotiated power is valid and the negotiation result is held, the control unit prioritizes the negotiated power as the benchmark value for the real-time power request, and performs consistency verification in conjunction with the measured output power. When the difference between the measured output power and the negotiated power is less than a preset deviation threshold, it indicates that the output interface has entered a stable power supply state, and the control unit can determine the larger of the negotiated power and the measured output power as the real-time power request value. When the difference is greater than the preset deviation threshold and the output current shows a continuous upward trend, it indicates that the external electrical equipment is still in the load-bearing stage, and the control unit determines the negotiated power as the real-time power request value. When the negotiated power is invalid, the negotiation process is not completed, or the output interface is connected to electrical equipment that does not support negotiated power, the control unit determines the measured output power as the real-time power request value. The preset deviation threshold can be set according to the proportion of the negotiated power or a fixed power difference can be used.

[0034] When using a proportional setting, it can adapt to different power levels; when using a fixed power difference setting, it facilitates rapid comparison by the control unit. In this embodiment, the principle for setting the preset deviation threshold is to cover normal fluctuations caused by sampling errors and line losses, without masking the actual load ramp-up behavior. The continuous upward trend of the output current can be judged by the current increment over several consecutive sampling periods. If the current increment is continuously positive and reaches the trend threshold, the control unit considers the output interface to have entered the power increase phase. To avoid frequent jumps in the real-time power request value caused by protocol renegotiation, the control unit can set a short-term hold window. Within the hold window, the latest protocol-negotiated power is used as the real-time power request value first, and then corrected based on the measured output power after the hold window ends. After the above processing, the real-time power request value can reflect both the power currently consumed by the output interface and the power demand that the output interface has proposed at the protocol level but has not yet been fully released. The target output interface identification result obtained is more suitable as input for subsequent power gap calculation and power conversion module scheduling.

[0035] The power gap is determined based on the difference between the real-time power request value of the target output interface and the safe output limit of a single power conversion module, and the target power conversion module is determined based on the power gap and the available output capacity of each power conversion module. In this embodiment, after identifying the target output interface, the control unit reads the real-time power request value corresponding to the target output interface and compares this real-time power request value with the safe output limit of a single power conversion module to determine the power gap that has not yet been met for the target output interface. The control unit continues to read the operating status, current output status, and remaining output capacity of each power conversion module to form a power module status set. Based on the power gap and the power module status set, the control unit determines the power conversion modules that can participate in the reallocation from multiple power conversion modules, and combines the power conversion modules participating in the reallocation according to their available output capacity to obtain the target power conversion module. The target power conversion module is used to supplement the output capacity of the target output interface in the subsequent parallel control stage, so that the power supply capacity of the target output interface can cover the real-time power request value.

[0036] The power gap is determined based on the difference between the real-time power request value of the target output interface and the safe output limit of a single power conversion module. The target power conversion module is then determined based on the power gap and the available output capacity of each power conversion module. This process includes: determining the power gap based on the difference between the real-time power request value of the target output interface and the safe output limit of a single power conversion module; selecting schedulable power conversion modules from multiple power conversion modules; determining the number of power conversion modules to be called based on the power gap and the available output capacity of each schedulable power conversion module; and selecting the power conversion module corresponding to the number of power conversion modules to be called from the schedulable power conversion modules as the target power conversion module.

[0037] In one embodiment, the control unit limits the power gap formation method, the schedulable power conversion module screening process, the method for determining the required number of calls, and the target power conversion module selection rules, so as to ensure that the power scheduling action has clear input, clear constraints, and clear output, and avoids insufficient scheduling of the target output interface due to rough allocation based only on the power margin at a certain moment, or unnecessary impact on the normal working interface.

[0038] After identifying the target output interface, the control unit subtracts the safe output limit of a single power conversion module from the real-time power request value of the target output interface to obtain the power gap. If the difference is less than or equal to zero, it means that a single power conversion module can already meet the current demand of the target output interface, and cross-module scheduling is not triggered. If the difference is greater than zero, it means that the target output interface has additional demands that exceed the continuous safe power supply range of a single module, and the control unit uses this difference as the minimum compensation target for this round of scheduling. The power module status set includes at least the module identifier, rated output capacity, current output power, remaining output capacity, operating temperature, health status, and interface occupancy relationship. The remaining output capacity is used to characterize the output capacity that the corresponding power conversion module can continue to provide under the current operating state. This parameter can be obtained by subtracting the current output power from the rated output capacity, or, in the case of temperature derating, long-term current limiting, or protection derating, by subtracting the current output power from the drated allowable output capacity. The control unit selects schedulable power conversion modules from the power module status set. At least three conditions must be met during the screening process: First, the corresponding power conversion module must not be in a state where it is unable to participate in scheduling, such as being in a faulty, over-temperature, or protection-locked state; second, the corresponding power conversion module must have a remaining output capacity greater than zero in the current cycle; and third, the corresponding power conversion module's participation in scheduling will not cause its original service interface to fall below the current demand.

[0039] After initial screening, the control unit sorts the schedulable power conversion modules according to their available output capacity from largest to smallest. Alternatively, it can combine temperature margin and interface priority into the capacity sorting for a comprehensive sorting. The number of power conversion modules to be called is determined according to the cumulative compensation principle. The control unit adds the schedulable power conversion modules to the candidate set one by one, starting with the top-ranked modules. Each time a power conversion module is added, its available output capacity is accumulated until the accumulated value is not less than the power gap, or all schedulable power conversion modules have been added to the candidate set.

[0040] The number of power conversion modules in the current candidate set is the number of power conversion modules to be called. If the cumulative value reaches the power gap, the control unit determines the power conversion modules in the candidate set as the target power conversion modules. If the cumulative value is still less than the power gap, it indicates that the current schedulable resources are insufficient. The control unit can determine the entire candidate set as target power conversion modules and mark this round of scheduling as a partially compensated state. Subsequently, resources will be supplemented by combining priority release strategies. In this way, the formation of target power conversion modules does not depend on experience, but is based on a step-by-step matching of power gap and available output capacity. The resulting scheduling can be directly entered into the subsequent parallel control stage.

[0041] Selecting schedulable power conversion modules from multiple power conversion modules includes: identifying power conversion modules that are not involved in output as idle power conversion modules; identifying power conversion modules whose output power is lower than a preset load threshold and whose connected output interfaces still meet the real-time power request value after the corresponding power conversion module has transferred out part of its output capacity as low-load power conversion modules; and selecting schedulable power conversion modules from idle power conversion modules and low-load power conversion modules.

[0042] In one embodiment, the control unit defines the classification method and screening boundaries of the schedulable power conversion modules to determine which power conversion modules can be reallocated and which should continue to maintain their original output, ensuring that scheduling actions are truly feasible. The control unit divides multiple power conversion modules into two categories: idle power conversion modules and low-load power conversion modules. Idle power conversion modules indicate those currently not connected to any output tasks, with zero output power, or in a standby state. These modules have priority in participating in scheduling because their access will not affect other output interfaces. Low-load power conversion modules indicate those currently participating in output but still retaining a large scheduling margin.

[0043] When the control unit determines whether a power conversion module is under load, it not only compares the current output power with a preset load threshold, but also verifies whether the output interface connected to the corresponding power conversion module still meets the real-time power request value after transferring some of its output capacity. The preset load threshold characterizes whether the current output state can be considered a low-load state. This threshold can be set as a percentage of the rated output capacity, such as 30% to 50% of the rated output capacity, or it can be fixed during the testing phase based on the product's heat dissipation design and typical load distribution. A lower value reduces the number of schedulable objects, but has less impact on the original output interface; a higher value increases the number of schedulable objects, but requires more stringent verification of whether the original output interface's requirements can still be met. When determining whether a power conversion module is under load, the control unit first reads the real-time power request value of the power conversion module's currently serving output interface, and then reads the power conversion module's current output power and releasable output capacity. The releasable output capacity indicates the output capacity that the power conversion module can transfer without insufficient power to the original serving output interface.

[0044] If the current output power is lower than the preset load threshold, and the output interface connected to the corresponding power conversion module still meets the real-time power request value after transferring part of its output capacity, the control unit identifies the power conversion module as a low-load power conversion module. If the original service output interface is a high-priority interface, the protocol negotiation is changing, or the output status is unstable, the control unit will not include the power conversion module in the low-load power conversion module set, even if the current output power is lower than the preset load threshold. After classification, the control unit merges idle power conversion modules and low-load power conversion modules to form a schedulable power conversion module set. If the idle power conversion modules are sufficient to cover the power gap, the control unit prioritizes selecting the target power conversion module only from the idle power conversion modules; if the idle power conversion modules are insufficient, they are supplemented from the low-load power conversion modules. This process ensures that scheduling actions prioritize the use of unused resources, and when it is necessary to use in-service resources, the impact can be controlled within the allowable range through load threshold and real-time power request value verification, so that subsequent parallel output is based on stable and verifiable resources.

[0045] Based on the connection status of the reconfigurable output interconnection network and the output voltage parameters and isolation status of the target power conversion module, it is determined whether the target power conversion module and the target output interface meet the safe parallel connection conditions. If the safe parallel connection conditions are met, the reconfigurable output interconnection network is controlled to connect the target power conversion module in parallel to the target output interface to form a parallel output path. In this embodiment, after identifying the target power conversion module, the control unit reads the current connection status of the reconfigurable output interconnect network and simultaneously acquires the output voltage parameters and isolation status of the target power conversion module to determine whether the target power conversion module and the target output interface meet the conditions for parallel connection. The connection status indicates whether there is a connectable interconnect path between the target power conversion module and the target output interface; the output voltage parameters indicate the target output voltage and the actual output voltage before the target power conversion module is connected; and the isolation status indicates whether the corresponding isolating switch is in an enabled state. After completing the safe parallel connection condition determination, the control unit sends an access control command to the reconfigurable output interconnect network to connect the target power conversion module to the target output interface in sequence, establishing a parallel output path, and using the parallel output path as the basis for subsequent output power allocation and feedback updates.

[0046] Based on the connection status of the reconfigurable output interconnection network and the output voltage parameters and isolation status of the target power conversion module, determine whether the target power conversion module and the target output interface meet the safe parallel connection conditions, including: obtaining the target output voltage, actual output voltage and isolation switch status of each target power conversion module; and determining that the target power conversion module and the target output interface meet the safe parallel connection conditions when the target output voltage of each target power conversion module is consistent, the difference between the actual output voltages of any two target power conversion modules is less than the preset voltage difference threshold and the isolation switches are all in the conduction state.

[0047] In one embodiment, the control unit limits the safe parallel connection condition formation method, connection status determination logic, output voltage consistency determination rules, and isolation status verification boundary to ensure that no backflow, voltage surge, or incorrect connection will occur when the target power conversion module is connected in parallel.

[0048] After receiving the set of target power conversion modules, the control unit first performs a topology scan of the reconfigurable output interconnect network, reading the interconnect channel status, interconnect switch occupancy status, and disconnect switch status between each target power conversion module and the target output interface. The interconnect channel status indicates whether there is a physical connection path available for access; the interconnect switch occupancy status indicates whether the corresponding channel is already occupied by other output tasks; and the disconnect switch status indicates whether the corresponding power conversion module is in a state that allows it to share access with other power conversion modules.

[0049] After confirming the interconnection path is available, the control unit continues to read the target output voltage and actual output voltage of the target power conversion module. The target output voltage represents the voltage level that the power conversion module should output according to the control settings, while the actual output voltage represents the true voltage level that has been established at the output of the power conversion module within the current sampling period. If the target output voltages are inconsistent, it indicates that the current power supply levels of the different power conversion modules are different. Direct connection in this case would cause parallel mismatch, and the control unit will not allow entry into the parallel connection phase. If the target output voltages are consistent, the control unit continues to compare the difference in actual output voltage between any two target power conversion modules.

[0050] A preset voltage difference threshold is used to limit the maximum allowable voltage deviation before parallel connection. This threshold can be set based on output filtering capability, switch-on transient tolerance, and parallel current sharing accuracy. A value that is too small increases the probability of false rejection, while a value that is too large may cause a significant current sharing impact at the moment of connection. The control unit determines that the voltage condition is met only when the actual output voltage difference between any two target power conversion modules is less than the preset voltage difference threshold. Verification of the disconnector switch status is performed simultaneously with the voltage condition. If any disconnector switch is in a fault-locked state, a prohibited-from-connect state, or a state that conflicts with the current interconnection path, the control unit determines that the safe parallel connection condition is not met.

[0051] When the safety parallel connection condition is not met, the control unit records the reason for the failure and temporarily removes the corresponding target power conversion module from the current access set. It then re-verifies whether the remaining target power conversion modules can still meet the power gap of the target output interface. If the remaining target power conversion modules can still cover the target output interface requirements, the system enters the access phase according to the revised target power conversion module set. If the remaining target power conversion modules are insufficient to cover the target output interface requirements, the current state is marked as a parallel-limited state, and the system waits for a subsequent feedback update phase to reconfigure resources. Through this process, a clear input, judgment, and output relationship is established between the target power conversion modules, the target output interface, and the reconfigurable output interconnection network. The conclusion of the safety parallel connection condition can be directly adopted by subsequent parallel access actions.

[0052] Controlling the reconfigurable output interconnect network to connect the target power conversion modules in parallel to the target output interface to form a parallel output path includes: synchronizing the output voltage of the target power conversion modules; closing the interconnect switches in the reconfigurable output interconnect network in sequence according to the preset access order; collecting the output current of each target power conversion module after the parallel connection is completed, and adjusting the output control parameters of each target power conversion module according to the collected output current of each target power conversion module.

[0053] In one embodiment, the control unit defines the parallel output path establishment process, the output voltage synchronization method, the interconnection switch access sequence, and the output control parameter correction rules after parallel connection, in order to explain how the reconfigurable output interconnection network can stably connect multiple target power conversion modules to the target output interface after meeting the safe parallel connection conditions.

[0054] After confirming that the safe parallel connection conditions are met, the control unit first performs output voltage synchronization processing on the target power conversion modules. Output voltage synchronization is used to converge the control setting voltages of each target power conversion module to a unified access voltage, preventing new deviations from occurring at the moment of access due to different control settings, even if the voltage difference threshold is met. Output voltage synchronization can be achieved by modifying the voltage setting register value of the power conversion module or by adjusting the reference voltage channel.

[0055] After synchronization is complete, the control unit drives the interconnect switches in the reconfigurable output interconnect network to close sequentially according to the preset access order. The preset access order is used to limit the order in which multiple target power conversion modules are connected to the target output interface. The setting can be based on the available output capacity, the proximity of the actual output voltage, or the module temperature margin. Generally, power conversion modules with larger available output capacity are connected first to quickly form the main compensation capability; power conversion modules whose actual output voltage is closer to the current voltage of the target output interface can also be connected first to reduce transient fluctuations during connection.

[0056] After closing each interconnect switch, the control unit detects changes in the output voltage of the target output interface and the output current of the newly connected power conversion module. If the target output interface experiences excessive voltage drop, the connected module experiences abnormal inrush current, or the interconnect switch fails to enter a stable conducting state within the specified time, the control unit stops closing subsequent interconnect switches and maintains the already connected target power conversion module in its current safe state. If necessary, it disconnects the newly connected module in this round to restore the structure before connection.

[0057] After all target power conversion modules are connected, the output interconnection network can be reconfigured to form a parallel output path. The control unit continues to collect the output current of each target power conversion module and adjusts the output control parameters of each target power conversion module based on the sampling results. The output control parameters are used to adjust the current sharing degree and dynamic response speed of each target power conversion module, and their specific forms can be current limits, compensation gains, or current sharing corrections.

[0058] The control unit compares the output current of each target power conversion module with the average current sharing level. If the output current of a target power conversion module is consistently higher than the upper limit of current sharing, the output control parameters of that target power conversion module are appropriately reduced; if the output current of a target power conversion module is consistently lower than the lower limit of current sharing, the output control parameters of that target power conversion module are appropriately increased. The upper and lower limits of current sharing can be set based on the module's rated capacity, the number of modules connected in parallel, and the allowable current sharing deviation. Through the acquisition of output current and correction of output control parameters after parallel connection, the parallel output path can not only be established but also maintained in a stable operating state, thereby providing continuous, adjustable, and verifiable compensation output capability for the target output interface.

[0059] Power is output to the target output interface according to the parallel output path, and the parallel output path is updated according to the feedback information of the target output interface when the output power does not meet the real-time power request value.

[0060] In this embodiment, after the parallel output path is established, the control unit outputs power to the target output interface according to the current parallel output path and continuously collects feedback information from the target output interface. The feedback information characterizes the actual operating status of the target output interface under the current power supply condition, including at least output voltage, output current, and negotiated power. The control unit determines the current output power of the target output interface based on the feedback information and compares the current output power with the real-time power request value. If the current output power meets the real-time power request value, the existing parallel output path is maintained; if the current output power is lower than the real-time power request value, or the negotiated power changes, the control unit re-determines the target power conversion module and adjusts the parallel output path accordingly, so that the power supply capacity of the target output interface is re-matched to the current requirements.

[0061] The parallel output path is updated based on the feedback information from the target output interface, including: obtaining the feedback information from the target output interface, which includes the output voltage, output current, and protocol negotiated power; determining the output power based on the output voltage and output current; and re-determining the target power conversion module and updating the parallel output path if the output power is lower than the real-time power request value or if the protocol negotiated power changes.

[0062] In one embodiment, the control unit limits the feedback information composition method, output power determination method, parallel output path update trigger condition and update execution boundary, so as to make the update of the parallel output path have clear input, clear judgment basis and clear control action, and avoid the target output interface from continuing to use the incompatible power supply structure in scenarios of load change, equipment renegotiation or instantaneous voltage drop.

[0063] After the parallel output path is put into operation, the control unit reads the status data of the target output interface according to the sampling period consistent with the power scheduling phase, forming a feedback information record. The feedback information record includes at least the interface identifier, output voltage, output current, negotiated power, current output power, the most recent update time stamp, and a status validity stamp. The output voltage characterizes the currently established supply voltage of the target output interface, the output current characterizes the actual output current flowing through the target output interface, and the negotiated power characterizes the power supply target currently negotiated between the target output interface and the external power device according to the charging protocol. The control unit determines the current output power based on the output voltage and output current and compares the current output power with the real-time power request value. The real-time power request value uses the interface demand results formed in the previous stage, or it can be revised within the current feedback cycle based on the latest protocol negotiation results.

[0064] When the current output power is lower than the real-time power request value, it indicates that the existing parallel output path can no longer cover the needs of the target output interface, and the control unit determines this state as a power shortage state. When the negotiated power changes, even if the current output power is not significantly lower than the real-time power request value, the control unit will still determine this state as an update trigger state. This is because changes in the negotiated power usually mean that external electrical equipment has made new power supply demands. If the parallel output path is not adjusted in time, the target output interface will experience power mismatch in the subsequent sampling periods. To avoid false triggering caused by sampling noise or short-term protocol fluctuations, the control unit can set an update confirmation window. The update confirmation window is used to limit the minimum duration for which the triggering conditions must be continuously met. The control unit will only perform parallel output path updates when the current output power is lower than the real-time power request value for several consecutive sampling periods, or when the negotiated power changes steadily outside the maintenance window.

[0065] After the control unit enters the update process, it first freezes any new access actions for the current parallel output path, retains power conversion modules that are already in the conducting state and outputing normally, and then re-evaluates which power conversion modules need to be retained, added, or removed based on the latest feedback information. Before the parallel output path update is complete, the control unit maintains a minimum continuous power supply to the target output interface to avoid a complete power outage during reconfiguration. If it is found that the conditions for adding a new access are not met during the update process, the control unit retains the old valid parallel output path and attempts to update again in the next feedback cycle. In this way, a complete relationship is formed between feedback information, output power, triggering conditions, and parallel output path updates, enabling the parallel output path to be dynamically corrected according to changes in the target output interface requirements.

[0066] The process of redetermining the target power conversion module includes: determining the priority of each output interface according to the power supply priority order of each output interface; releasing the power conversion module from the lower priority output interface according to the priority of each output interface; and including the released power conversion module as at least a part of the redetermined target power conversion module.

[0067] In one embodiment, the control unit defines the method for redetermining the target power conversion module, which explains how to release available power conversion modules from other output interfaces when the existing parallel output paths are insufficient to meet the requirements of the target output interface, and incorporate the release result into the new power supply structure.

[0068] After determining that the target power conversion module needs to be re-selected, the control unit first reads the current power supply status, real-time power request value, protocol negotiation status, and historical stability records of each output interface, and determines the priority of each output interface based on this information. Output interface priority characterizes the degree to which each output interface maintains its original power supply in resource-scarce scenarios. Priority settings can be comprehensively determined based on interface type, protocol level, user-preset strategies, and the importance of the connected load. For example, output interfaces connected to high-power computing devices or explicitly set by the user as having priority power supply have higher priority; output interfaces connected to low-power accessories or in the final stages of power replenishment have lower priority.

[0069] After obtaining the priority ranking, the control unit checks whether the power conversion modules currently occupied by each output interface meet the release conditions in ascending order. The release conditions include at least two items: one is that after the corresponding power conversion module reduces its output capacity or exits the current power supply structure, the current output interface can still be basically powered by the remaining power conversion modules; the other is that the corresponding output interface is not currently in a protocol renegotiation, voltage drop recovery, or abnormal fluctuation phase. If the release conditions are met, the control unit removes the corresponding power conversion module from the original power supply structure of the output interface and adds the power conversion module to the release set.

[0070] The power conversion modules in the released set participate in subsequent parallel output path updates as at least a portion of the redefined target power conversion modules. If a single release still cannot cover the new demand of the target output interface, the control unit continues to check the next output interface in priority order until the cumulative available output capacity in the released set meets the current power gap, or all low-priority output interfaces that can be checked have been evaluated. To avoid excessive impact on low-priority output interfaces, the control unit can set a minimum reserved power supply capacity for each output interface. The minimum reserved power supply capacity is used to ensure that the output interface after the resource is released can still maintain the basic operation of the current load and will not go offline directly due to the resource transfer. If a low-priority output interface will fall below the minimum reserved power supply capacity after releasing any power conversion module, the control unit will not continue to release resources from that output interface.

[0071] After the release is completed, the control unit will combine the released set with the target power conversion modules that are still connected to form a new target power conversion module set. Then, based on the new target power conversion module set, the parallel output path will be re-established or modified. By introducing output interface priority, release conditions, and minimum reserved power supply capacity, the process of redetermining the target power conversion modules is no longer a simple resource appropriation. Instead, it involves the orderly reconstruction of available resources while ensuring the basic power supply continuity of other output interfaces, thus making the parallel output path update action feasible in real-world engineering.

[0072] like Figure 2 As shown, a multi-port gallium nitride (GaN) charger intelligent power distribution system is used to implement a multi-port GaN charger intelligent power distribution method. The system includes: The request identification module is used to acquire the real-time power request value of each output interface and determine the target output interface whose real-time power request value exceeds the safe output limit of a single power conversion module. The request identification module consists of an interface voltage sampling circuit, an interface current sampling circuit, a protocol identification circuit, an analog-to-digital conversion circuit, and a control processing circuit. The interface voltage and current sampling circuits acquire the output voltage and output current of each output interface, respectively. The protocol identification circuit acquires the protocol negotiation power corresponding to each output interface. The analog-to-digital conversion circuit converts the acquired analog quantities into digital quantities. The control processing circuit determines the real-time power request value based on the output voltage, output current, and protocol negotiation power, and identifies the target output interface whose real-time power request value exceeds the safe output limit of a single power conversion module.

[0073] The scheduling determination module is used to determine the power gap based on the difference between the real-time power request value of the target output interface and the safe output limit of a single power conversion module, and to determine the target power conversion module based on the power gap and the available output capacity of each power conversion module. The scheduling determination module consists of a module status acquisition circuit, a power detection circuit, a storage circuit, and a control processing circuit. The module status acquisition circuit acquires the operating and connection status of each power conversion module; the power detection circuit acquires the current output power and available output capacity of each power conversion module; the storage circuit stores the safe output limit of a single power conversion module, the power gap calculation rules, and the module scheduling rules; and the control processing circuit determines the power gap based on the difference between the real-time power request value of the target output interface and the safe output limit of a single power conversion module, and determines the target power conversion module based on the power gap and the available output capacity of each power conversion module.

[0074] The parallel control module is used to determine whether the target power conversion module and the target output interface meet the safe parallel connection conditions based on the connection status of the reconfigurable output interconnect network and the output voltage parameters and isolation status of the target power conversion module. If the safe parallel connection conditions are met, the module controls the reconfigurable output interconnect network to connect the target power conversion module in parallel to the target output interface, forming a parallel output path. The parallel control module consists of a topology detection circuit, a voltage detection circuit, a disconnect switch drive circuit, an interconnect switch drive circuit, and a control processing circuit. The topology detection circuit obtains the connection status of the reconfigurable output interconnect network; the voltage detection circuit obtains the output voltage parameters of the target power conversion module; the disconnect switch drive circuit controls the opening and closing of the disconnect switches; the interconnect switch drive circuit controls the operation of the interconnect switches in the reconfigurable output interconnect network; and the control processing circuit determines whether the target power conversion module and the target output interface meet the safe parallel connection conditions based on the connection status, output voltage parameters, and isolation status. If the safe parallel connection conditions are met, the module controls the target power conversion module to connect in parallel to the target output interface, forming a parallel output path.

[0075] The feedback update module is used to output power to the target output interface according to the parallel output path, and to update the parallel output path based on feedback information from the target output interface when the output power does not meet the real-time power request value. The feedback update module consists of an output monitoring circuit, a protocol status monitoring circuit, a path status monitoring circuit, a storage circuit, and a control processing circuit. The output monitoring circuit acquires the output voltage and current of the target output interface; the protocol status monitoring circuit acquires the protocol negotiation power of the target output interface; the path status monitoring circuit acquires the current operating status of the parallel output path; the storage circuit stores feedback update rules and path reconstruction rules; and the control processing circuit outputs power to the target output interface according to the parallel output path, and, when the output power does not meet the real-time power request value, re-determines the target power conversion module and updates the parallel output path based on feedback information from the target output interface.

[0076] It should be noted that, in this document, the terms "comprising," "including," and any other variations are intended to cover non-exclusive inclusion, such that a process, method, article, or apparatus that comprises a list of elements includes not only those elements but also other elements not expressly listed, or elements inherent to such a process, method, article, or apparatus. Specific examples have been used in this document to illustrate the principles and implementation methods of the technical solutions of this application. The above examples are only for the purpose of helping to understand the methods and core ideas of this application. The above descriptions are merely preferred embodiments of this application. It should be pointed out that, due to the limitations of written expression and the objective existence of infinite specific structures, those skilled in the art can make several improvements, modifications, or changes without departing from the principles of this application, and can also combine the above technical features in an appropriate manner; these improvements, modifications, changes, or combinations, or the direct application of the concept and technical solutions of this application to other situations without modification, should all be considered within the scope of protection of this application.

Claims

1. A smart power distribution method for a multi-port gallium nitride charger, characterized in that, A multi-port gallium nitride charger includes multiple output ports, multiple power conversion modules, and a reconfigurable output interconnect network. The method includes: Obtain the real-time power request value of each of the output interfaces, and determine the target output interface whose real-time power request value exceeds the safe output limit of a single power conversion module; The power gap is determined based on the difference between the real-time power request value of the target output interface and the safe output limit of a single power conversion module, and the target power conversion module is determined based on the power gap and the available output capacity of each power conversion module. Based on the connection status of the reconfigurable output interconnection network and the output voltage parameters and isolation status of the target power conversion module, it is determined whether the target power conversion module and the target output interface meet the safe parallel connection conditions. If the safe parallel connection conditions are met, the reconfigurable output interconnection network is controlled to connect the target power conversion module in parallel to the target output interface to form a parallel output path. Power is output to the target output interface according to the parallel output path, and when the output power does not meet the real-time power request value, the parallel output path is updated according to the feedback information of the target output interface.

2. The method according to claim 1, characterized in that, The step of obtaining the real-time power request value of each of the output interfaces and determining the target output interface whose real-time power request value exceeds the safe output limit of a single power conversion module includes: Obtain the output voltage, output current, and protocol negotiation power of each of the aforementioned output interfaces; The real-time power request value of each output interface is determined based on the output voltage, the output current, and the protocol negotiation power of each output interface. The output interface whose real-time power request value exceeds the safe output limit of a single power conversion module within multiple consecutive sampling periods is identified as the target output interface.

3. The method according to claim 2, characterized in that, Determining the real-time power request value for each output interface based on the output voltage, output current, and protocol negotiated power of each output interface includes: The measured output power is determined based on the output voltage and output current of each of the output interfaces; The real-time power request value for each output interface is determined based on the measured output power and the protocol negotiated power.

4. The method according to claim 1, characterized in that, The step of determining the power gap based on the difference between the real-time power request value of the target output interface and the safe output limit of a single power conversion module, and determining the target power conversion module based on the power gap and the available output capacity of each power conversion module, includes: The power gap is determined based on the difference between the real-time power request value of the target output interface and the safe output limit of a single power conversion module; Select a schedulable power conversion module from among the power conversion modules; The number of power conversion modules to be called is determined based on the power gap and the available output capacity of each of the schedulable power conversion modules, and the power conversion module corresponding to the number of power conversion modules to be called is selected from the schedulable power conversion modules as the target power conversion module.

5. The method according to claim 4, characterized in that, The step of selecting schedulable power conversion modules from the plurality of power conversion modules includes: Power conversion modules that are not involved in output are identified as idle power conversion modules; A power conversion module whose output power is lower than a preset load threshold and whose connected output interface still meets the real-time power request value after the corresponding power conversion module has transferred out part of its output capacity is identified as a low-load power conversion module. The schedulable power conversion module is selected from the idle power conversion module and the low-load power conversion module.

6. The method according to claim 1, characterized in that, The step of determining whether the target power conversion module and the target output interface meet the safe parallel connection condition based on the connection status of the reconfigurable output interconnection network and the output voltage parameters and isolation status of the target power conversion module includes: Obtain the target output voltage, actual output voltage, and isolation switch status of each target power conversion module; When the target output voltage of each target power conversion module is consistent, the difference between the actual output voltages of any two target power conversion modules is less than a preset voltage difference threshold, and the states of each disconnecting switch are all in the conduction state, it is determined that the target power conversion module and the target output interface meet the safe parallel connection conditions.

7. The method according to claim 6, characterized in that, The control of the reconfigurable output interconnect network to connect the target power conversion module in parallel to the target output interface, forming the parallel output path, includes: Synchronize the output voltage of the target power conversion module; The interconnect switches in the reconfigurable output interconnection network are closed sequentially according to a preset access order; After parallel connection is completed, the output current of each target power conversion module is collected, and the output control parameters of each target power conversion module are adjusted according to the collected output current of each target power conversion module.

8. The method according to claim 1, characterized in that, Updating the parallel output path based on the feedback information from the target output interface includes: Obtain feedback information from the target output interface, including output voltage, output current, and protocol negotiation power; The output power is determined based on the output voltage and the output current; If the output power is lower than the real-time power request value or the protocol negotiated power changes, the target power conversion module is redefined and the parallel output path is updated.

9. The method according to claim 8, characterized in that, The re-determination of the target power conversion module includes: The priority of each output interface is determined according to the power supply priority order of each output interface; The power conversion module is released from the lower priority output interface according to the priority of each output interface; The released power conversion module is used as at least a portion of the redefined target power conversion module.

10. A smart power distribution system for a multi-port gallium nitride charger, used to implement the smart power distribution method for a multi-port gallium nitride charger according to any one of claims 1-9, characterized in that, The system includes: The request identification module is used to obtain the real-time power request value of each output interface and determine the target output interface whose real-time power request value exceeds the safe output limit of a single power conversion module. The scheduling determination module is used to determine the power gap based on the difference between the real-time power request value of the target output interface and the safe output limit of a single power conversion module, and to determine the target power conversion module based on the power gap and the available output capacity of each power conversion module. The parallel control module is used to determine whether the target power conversion module and the target output interface meet the safe parallel connection conditions based on the connection status of the reconfigurable output interconnection network and the output voltage parameters and isolation status of the target power conversion module. If the safe parallel connection conditions are met, the module controls the reconfigurable output interconnection network to connect the target power conversion module in parallel to the target output interface to form a parallel output path. The feedback update module is used to output power to the target output interface according to the parallel output path, and update the parallel output path according to the feedback information of the target output interface when the output power does not meet the real-time power request value.

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