Active Voltage Sensing for Bidirectional Switch Dead Time Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing switching converters are bulky, inefficient in energy use, and generate excessive heat, limiting their compactness and reliability, especially in high-power applications.
Innovation Solution
The design incorporates bidirectional switches with high electron mobility transistors (HEMTs) and an advanced control circuit that employs active voltage sensors and a logic circuit to implement zero-voltage switching (ZVS) and optimized dead time management, reducing energy losses and heat generation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Volume of moving object
If conventional switching converters are used, then they can provide voltage conversion, but they are bulky and have large footprint
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies parameter changes by transitioning from conventional MOSFETs to HEMT switches, which fundamentally change the electrical parameters (electron mobility, on-resistance, switching speed) of the switching element. This enables smaller magnetic components and reduced overall converter size while maintaining or improving reliability in compact designs
2Use of energy by moving object
If conventional switching converters are used, then they can perform power conversion, but they are inefficient in energy use
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements feedback through active voltage sensing that continuously monitors the voltage across switches and provides real-time information to the control logic. This enables precise zero-voltage switching detection and adjustment, minimizing switching losses and improving overall energy efficiency by adapting switching timing based on actual voltage conditions
Solution Approach 2:
The transition to HEMT switches changes the electrical parameters of the switching device, providing lower on-resistance and faster switching speeds. This reduces both conduction losses and switching losses, significantly improving energy efficiency and reducing total energy losses in the converter
3Temperature
If conventional switching converters are used, then they can provide voltage conversion, but they generate excessive heat
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the thermal parameters by using HEMT switches with lower on-resistance compared to conventional MOSFETs. This reduction in resistance directly decreases I²R losses during conduction, generating less heat and improving reliability in high-power applications where thermal management is critical
4Loss of energy
If zero-voltage switching control is implemented, then energy efficiency is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies self-service by using the converter's own voltage conditions to generate the control signals needed for zero-voltage switching. The active voltage sensors detect the natural voltage zero-crossings of the circuit, and the control logic automatically adjusts switching timing based on these detected conditions, eliminating the need for external complex control circuits or additional timing components
Data Source
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AI summary
This description relates to a control circuit (302) for two electrically series connected switches (210-1, 210-2), comprising voltage sensors (310-1, 310-2) across the switches and a signal comparison circuit (320) for signals supplied by said sensors, at least one of said sensors being an active circuit.