Bidirectional DC-DC Converter Mode Switching for Wide Input Range
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing DC-DC converters face challenges in providing stable rated output over a wide input voltage range in forward mode operation and achieving high voltage boosting in reverse mode operation, while also dealing with increased size, complexity, and manufacturing costs.
Innovation Solution
A DC-DC converter design incorporating a totem pole circuit, primary and secondary clamp circuits, and a mode switching circuit, along with a controller to manage switch operations, allowing for efficient power conversion in both forward and reverse modes with reduced size and cost.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a full-bridge circuit is used on the primary side in forward mode, then power conversion is achieved, but the input voltage range becomes narrow
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by making the circuit configuration adjustable through a mode switching circuit. The primary circuit can dynamically switch between full-bridge configuration (for high voltage) and half-bridge configuration (for low voltage), allowing the input voltage range to adapt to different operating conditions while maintaining manageable complexity through controlled reconfiguration
Solution Approach 2:
The primary circuit is designed to perform multiple functions by incorporating both full-bridge and half-bridge capabilities within a single circuit structure. The mode switching circuit enables the same hardware to operate in different configurations, making the circuit universal enough to handle both high-voltage and low-voltage input conditions without requiring separate dedicated circuits
2Power
If a buck-boost converter is added on the low-voltage system side to increase rated output, then the rated output increases, but the converter size and volume increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the functions of the buck-boost converter with the existing primary circuit by integrating the half-bridge capability directly into the primary side. This consolidation eliminates the need for a separate buck-boost converter on the low-voltage side, achieving the rated output enhancement while reducing overall converter size and volume
Solution Approach 2:
The primary circuit is designed to universally handle both power conversion and voltage boosting functions through its dual full-bridge/half-bridge capability. This multi-functionality allows the circuit to achieve increased rated output without requiring additional dedicated voltage-boosting components, thereby reducing converter size
3Power
If a buck-boost converter is added to increase rated output, then the rated output increases, but manufacturing cost increases due to large current capacitor requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the voltage boosting function into the primary circuit's half-bridge operation, eliminating the need for a separate buck-boost converter and its associated large current capacitor. This integration reduces manufacturing cost by removing the requirement for expensive high-current capacitors while still achieving the desired rated output enhancement
4Power
If a separate control component is added to control the buck-boost converter, then the rated output is enhanced, but the control method complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the control functions by managing both full-bridge and half-bridge operations through a unified control approach. The mode switching circuit and controller work together to seamlessly transition between configurations and coordinate switch operations, simplifying the control method compared to managing separate buck-boost converter control while still achieving enhanced rated output
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
The design achieves stable power conversion over a wide input voltage range with improved efficiency and reduced size and manufacturing costs, while enabling higher voltage boosting in reverse mode.
Implementation Method 1
a transformer disposed between a first terminal and a second terminal
Data Source
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AI summary
Provided is a direct current to direct current (DC-DC) converter, and more particularly, a DC-DC converter that provides a wide input voltage range and an increased boost voltage in power transfer between a high-voltage system and a low-voltage system, and may control forward and reverse operations by using a mode switching circuit.