Boost Active Bridge Converter for Bidirectional EV Power Transfer
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing inductive power transfer (IPT) systems for electric vehicles (EVs) are limited by unidirectional power flow, which restricts their efficiency and flexibility, and conventional switch-mode power converters cannot fully utilize wide bandgap devices, leading to inefficiencies and increased component count when trying to increase operating voltage.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of a Boost Active Bridge (BAB) converter topology that integrates multiple energy sources with a bridge circuit and coupling network, allowing for bidirectional power flow and efficient operation by controlling the duty cycle and phase of switches to optimize voltage and power transfer, enabling Vehicle to Grid (V2G) services and efficient use of wide bandgap devices.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Power
If conventional switch-mode power converters are used in IPT systems, then the system can operate with standard components, but the operating voltage cannot be increased efficiently, leading to reduced power density and increased component count
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the voltage boosting function and power conversion function into a single integrated circuit topology. The series-connected switch arrangement with capacitive coupling combines multiple functions (voltage multiplication, isolation, and power transfer) that would traditionally require separate components, thereby increasing operating voltage without proportionally increasing component count
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from single-stage power conversion to multi-stage voltage boosting by arranging switches and capacitors in series. This dimensional expansion in the voltage domain allows the system to achieve higher operating voltages through cascaded stages, where each stage contributes to the overall voltage multiplication effect
2Adaptability or versatility
If unidirectional power flow is implemented in IPT systems, then the system design is simpler, but system efficiency and flexibility are restricted, limiting V2G services
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic bidirectional power flow capability by making the converter topology adjustable. The switch arrangement can be dynamically reconfigured to support power flow in either direction (grid-to-vehicle or vehicle-to-grid), allowing the system to adapt to different operating modes and service requirements without requiring completely separate converter designs for each direction
3Productivity
If wide bandgap devices are utilized at higher voltages, then power density and efficiency improve, but conventional converters lack the capability to utilize these devices to their full voltage rating
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the electrical parameters of the power converter by implementing a multi-stage voltage boosting topology that can accommodate higher voltage ratings. This allows wide bandgap devices to operate at their optimal voltage and frequency characteristics, exploiting their low on-state resistance and high switching speed to achieve improved power density and efficiency
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 BAB converter enhances power transfer efficiency, reduces component size and cost, and enables bi-directional power flow, improving the utilization of wide bandgap devices, thus addressing the limitations of existing IPT systems and enabling efficient V2G services.
Implementation Method 1
a coupling network(s) having a first connection between the switches of the first leg and a second connection between the switches of the second leg
Data Source
AI summary
A converter including a bridge circuit having a first leg and a second leg, each leg including a high switch and a low switch, the high switches being connected to a first energy source and the low switches being connected to ground, a coupling network(s) having a first connection between the switches of the first leg and a second connection between the switches of the second leg, and a second (or multiple secondary) energy source(s) connected between the coupling network(s) and ground, wherein the coupling network comprises a first inductive element connected between the second energy source and the switches of the first leg, and a second inductive element connected between the second energy source and the switches of the second leg.