Bidirectional DC-DC Converter Segmented Control

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional bidirectional DC-DC converters face difficulties in easily switching between powering and regenerating states due to complex control systems and inefficient power conversion processes.

Innovation Solution

A DC-DC converter design incorporating a transformer, voltage-source and current-source power converters, and a controller with multiple control systems to manage power transfer between the primary and secondary sides, utilizing voltage and current detection circuits to facilitate seamless switching and power modulation.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If a conventional bidirectional DC-DC converter is used, then power can be transferred bidirectionally, but switching between powering and regenerating states is difficult and the control system is complicated

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveswitching between powering and regenerating statesVSAvoidcontrol system
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The control system dynamically switches between two distinct control modes (powering mode and regenerating mode) based on the operational state. Each mode has dedicated control circuits optimized for its specific function, allowing easy switching without complex dual-mode control logic. The controller selectively activates appropriate control circuits depending on whether powering or regenerating is required.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

2Adaptability or versatility

If control is performed in both powering and regenerating states, then bidirectional power transfer is achieved, but the control system becomes complicated

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvepowering and regenerating controlVSAvoidcontrol system
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The control system is segmented into separate control circuits for powering mode and regenerating mode. Each control circuit is independently designed and optimized for its specific function. The controller selectively activates the appropriate control circuit based on the current operational state, avoiding the complexity of a unified dual-mode control system while maintaining full bidirectional functionality.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

3Loss of energy

If voltage and current inputs are controlled within defined ranges, then power conversion efficiency is improved, but control complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvepower conversion efficiencyVSAvoidcontrol system
Core Design Contradiction:
Loss of energyVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The control system adjusts key parameters (voltage and current inputs) within defined ranges to optimize power conversion efficiency. By controlling the voltage-source power converter and current-source power converter to operate within optimal parameter ranges, the system achieves efficient power transfer while the segmented control architecture prevents excessive complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

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 easy switching between powering and regenerating states, simplifying control systems and improving power conversion efficiency by controlling voltage and current inputs and outputs within defined ranges.

Implementation Method 1

a transformer, a voltage-source power converter that is provided at a primary side of the transformer

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElectromagnetic induction: Electromagnetic Induction

Data Source

PatentUS8830701B2DC-DC converter
Publication Date: 2014.09.09 TDK CORP
  • US8830701B2 patent drawing
  • US8830701B2 patent drawing
  • US8830701B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A DC-DC converter is configured with a voltage-source power converter at a primary side of a transformer, a current-source power converter at a secondary side of the transformer, and a controller. The DC-DC converter is connected between a storage battery and an inverter that drives an electric motor. The controller generates a first control input based on a voltage between input and output terminals of the voltage-source power converter, a second control input based on a voltage between input and output terminals of the current-source power converter, and a command value for PWM or PFM control based on the first and second control inputs and an input-output current flowing between one of the input and output terminals of the voltage-source power converter and the current-source power converter. Therefore, it is easy to switch between a powering state and a regenerating state.