Bidirectional Bipolar Power Converter with Predictive Transient Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current power conversion technologies lack an integrated switched-mode power converter that is bidirectionally bipolar, capable of efficiently managing energy flow between ports with galvanic isolation and adaptive response to line and load variations.
Innovation Solution
A switched mode power converter with a plurality of switch elements, an inductive reactor, and at least two ports, allowing for bidirectional bipolar operation by controlling switches based on feedback signals and reference signals to manage energy flow, and incorporating predictive energy calculations for transient response and adaptability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple separate supplies are used to provide bidirectional power flow, then power flow flexibility is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple power supply functions into a single integrated bidirectional power conversion device. The converter uses one inductive reactor and multiple switch elements that can operate in different configurations to achieve both buck and boost modes, eliminating the need for separate power supply units while maintaining bidirectional power flow capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The power conversion device is designed with universal functionality to operate in multiple modes (buck, boost, bidirectional) using the same core components. The inductive reactor and switch elements can be controlled to perform different power conversion functions, making the device adaptable to various operating conditions without requiring mode-specific hardware.
2Adaptability or versatility
If transformer turns-ratio is used to accommodate differing input and output voltage, then voltage adaptation is improved, but energy storage efficiency deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs dynamic switching control where the switch elements can be turned on and off at specific timing to control energy transfer. The inductive reactor dynamically stores and releases energy based on the switching states, allowing voltage adaptation through timing control rather than fixed turns-ratio, thereby improving energy storage efficiency.
Solution Approach 2:
The device changes operational parameters (switching timing, duty cycle) rather than physical parameters (turns-ratio) to adapt to different voltage conditions. By adjusting the switching parameters of the inductive reactor, the converter achieves voltage adaptation while maintaining efficient energy storage and transfer.
3Speed
If fast response to line and load variations is achieved through predictive energy calculations, then transient response is improved, but computational complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The control system performs preliminary energy predictions based on anticipated load variations and line conditions. By calculating required energy levels in advance and pre-positioning the inductive reactor's energy state, the system achieves fast transient response without complex real-time computations during actual load changes.
Solution Approach 2:
The device incorporates feedback mechanisms that monitor actual energy transfer and compare it with predicted values. This feedback allows the control system to make simple adjustments based on prediction errors, achieving fast response through iterative correction rather than complex predictive algorithms.
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
Enables efficient bidirectional bipolar energy transfer between ports with galvanic isolation, excellent transient response to line and load variations, and adaptability to changes in reactive components, enhancing the converter's efficiency and performance.
Implementation Method 1
an inductive reactor for energy storage
Implementation Method 2
Ports may or may not be galvanically isolated by using a transformer as an inductive reactor
Data Source
AI summary
The disclosure provides a power converter and method for controlling same, comprising a plurality of switch elements, an inductive reactor, and at least two ports for the movement of electrical energy. Any energy-moving port may be made unipolar, bidirectional, bipolar, or bidirectionally bipolar. Ports may be equipped with sensing circuitry to allow the converter output to be controlled responsively to an input signal. The disclosure may be configured to be used in many ways, for example, as a power-supply, as an amplifier, or as a frequency converter. The disclosure may comprise energy predictive calculating means to obtain excellent transient response to line and load variations. The disclosure may also include a switch to create a low impedance path around the inductor to allow current to recirculate through the inductor when it is not needed at any of the ports.