Bidirectional DC/DC Converter Reset Circuit for Reverse Power Flow
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional DC/DC converters lack the capability for bidirectional energy flow, with energy transmission only possible from the phase-shift full-bridge circuit to the synchronous rectifier circuit, limiting their applicability.
Innovation Solution
A bidirectional DC/DC converter is designed with a reset circuit and a transformer having a second winding with a central tap, allowing for bidirectional energy transmission through alternating and direct current conversion using a first and second terminal circuit, and a reset circuit that resets the second winding in different time periods.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a conventional DC/DC converter with phase-shift full-bridge circuit and synchronous rectifier is used, then unidirectional energy transmission is achieved, but bidirectional energy flow capability is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies universality by designing the DC/DC converter to perform multiple functions: it can operate in both forward mode (phase-shift full-bridge to synchronous rectifier) and reverse mode (synchronous rectifier to phase-shift full-bridge). The same basic circuit components are utilized for bidirectional operation, making the converter adaptable to different energy flow directions without requiring completely separate circuits for each direction.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements dynamics by making the converter's operational mode switchable based on control signals. The phase-shift full-bridge circuit and synchronous rectifier circuit can dynamically change their roles as input or output sides depending on the working state. This dynamic reconfiguration allows the converter to adapt between unidirectional and bidirectional operation modes, resolving the contradiction between simplicity and versatility.
2Adaptability or versatility
If bidirectional energy transmission is implemented using existing topologies, then energy flow in both directions is achieved, but additional complex circuits are required
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the forward and reverse conversion circuits into a single integrated structure. The phase-shift full-bridge circuit and synchronous rectifier circuit share common components and can operate in either direction. By combining these functions into one unified circuit rather than using separate circuits for each direction, the patent achieves bidirectional transmission without proportionally increasing complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies inversion by allowing the converter to operate in reverse mode where the synchronous rectifier circuit becomes the input side and the phase-shift full-bridge circuit becomes the output side. This inverted operation mode enables bidirectional energy transmission using the same physical circuitry, avoiding the need for additional dedicated reverse conversion circuits.
3Loss of energy
If conventional DC/DC converter topology is used, then simple structure is maintained, but energy utilization efficiency is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements continuity of useful action by enabling bidirectional energy transmission, which allows the converter to operate efficiently in both forward and reverse modes without energy waste. The ability to transmit energy in either direction ensures that the converter can always operate in its optimal efficiency range regardless of the direction of power flow, thereby improving overall energy utilization without requiring fundamentally different topologies for each direction.
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 bidirectional energy transmission, improving energy utilization and reducing the need for pre-charging circuits, thereby lowering costs and enhancing efficiency in applications like vehicle power supply systems.
Implementation Method 1
The phase-shift full-bridge circuit converts a direct current provided by the direct current power into an alternating current, and applies the alternating current to a primary-side coil of the transformer. A secondary-side coil of the transformer induces another alternating current.
Implementation Method 2
The synchronous rectifier circuit rectifies, into a direct current, the alternating current induced by the secondary-side coil of the transformer, and provides the direct current to a load.
Data Source
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AI summary
This application provides a bidirectional DC/DC converter, a control method thereof, a vehicle power supply system, and a vehicle. The bidirectional DC/DC converter includes a first terminal circuit, a transformer, a second terminal circuit, and a reset circuit, and the transformer includes a first winding and a second winding. The first terminal circuit is coupled to the first winding, and the second terminal circuit and the reset circuit are coupled to the second winding. In a first time period in which the bidirectional DC/DC converter is in a second working state, the second terminal circuit transmits a second alternating current to the first terminal circuit by using the second winding and the first winding; and in a second time period in which the bidirectional DC/DC converter is in the second working state, the reset circuit is in a conducted state, to reset the second winding. In this case, the second terminal circuit stops transmitting the second alternating current to the first terminal circuit. By implementing this application, bidirectional energy transmission of a DC/DC converter can be implemented.