Asymmetrical Bridge Power Converter with Switch Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Modular electrical power conversion systems with an asymmetrical bridge and different transformers for each output module experience significant energy losses and transformer saturation due to unbalanced current regimes, degrading efficiency and making the concept less viable.
Innovation Solution
A modular DC/DC electrical energy conversion system with a single-phase primary converter having an asymmetric bridge structure and multiple rectifier conversion modules, each with a unique transformer, where the control of switches ensures that voltage differences between intermediate terminals prevent current exchange between transformers, thereby preventing saturation and maintaining efficiency.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If an asymmetrical bridge with two switches and different transformers for each output module is used, then the system achieves modular distribution and simplified rectifier stages, but significant energy losses occur due to transformer saturation when current regimes are unbalanced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary control mechanism that monitors and regulates the current distribution among parallel transformers. By using control means to detect current imbalances and adjust switch duty cycles accordingly, the system prevents transformer saturation while maintaining modular operation. This intermediary control layer resolves the contradiction by enabling modular distribution without the harmful saturation effects.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent dynamically changes operational parameters (switch duty cycles, conduction times) based on the actual load distribution among transformers. When current regimes become unbalanced, the control system adjusts the duty cycle of switches associated with each transformer to equalize the current distribution, thereby preventing saturation and reducing energy losses while preserving modular flexibility.
2Ease of operation
If different transformers are used for each output module in parallel, then the system allows independent module operation, but transformer saturation occurs when current regimes are unbalanced between outputs
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements feedback control by continuously monitoring the current through each transformer using current detectors. The control means receives feedback signals about current distribution and automatically adjusts the duty cycles of associated switches to maintain balanced operation. This feedback mechanism ensures that independent module operation does not lead to saturation, thereby maintaining reliability and efficiency.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent makes the system dynamic by allowing real-time adjustment of switch conduction parameters based on load conditions. The duty cycles and conduction times of switches are dynamically modified according to the actual current distribution among transformers, enabling the system to adapt to unbalanced loads while preventing saturation and maintaining efficient operation of each independent module.
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 configuration significantly reduces energy losses and transformer saturation, maintaining high efficiency even under unbalanced current regimes by ensuring independent operation of each transformer, thus addressing the inefficiencies in conventional modular systems.
Implementation Method 1
The control means are configured to periodically control in conduction and at the same time all the switches, the voltage Ve1 delivered to each first intermediate terminal being greater than the voltage Ve2 delivered to each second intermediate terminal when the first and second switches are in simultaneous conduction
Implementation Method 2
each bridge branch being connected between the first and the second power supply terminals, any branch of the first set being formed by a first different electronic switch controlled by a first control means, and a first freewheel and demagnetization diode, connected in series to the first switch
Implementation Method 3
Each conversion module comprises a different transformer having a different and unique primary winding, the primary winding being connected between a first terminal and a second intermediate terminal associated with the single-phase primary converter, and having at least one secondary winding
Data Source
AI summary
The modular DC/DC electrical power conversion system (2) comprises a single-phase primary converter (10), having an asymmetrical bridge structure with several electronic switches supplied with a DC voltage Vc between a first supply terminal (6) and a second supply terminal (8), and having at least two rectifier conversion modules (12, 14, 16, 18). Each rectifier conversion module (12, 14, 16, 18) is supplied by the primary converter (10) through a different associated transformer (102, 104, 106, 108) having a single primary winding (112, 114, 116, 118).The single-phase primary converter (10) comprises a set of electronic switches (52, 54, 56, 58) whose number is equal to the number N of conversion modules (12, 14, 16, 18) and for which each switch (52, 54, 56, 58) of the set, connected to a single and different transformer (102, 104, 106, 108) at a different intermediate terminal (82, 84, 86, 88), is connected at this same intermediate terminal to a different demagnetizing diode (72, 74, 76, 78), itself connected to the same supply terminal (6).