Boost-Inverting Converter Control for Continuous Mode Operation

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional boost-inverting converters cannot operate in a continuous mode, requiring higher peak inductor current, leading to increased power loss and more complex, expensive switch design.

Innovation Solution

A control apparatus and method that uses error amplifiers, combiners, waveform generators, comparators, and logical circuits to manage switch operation, allowing the boost-inverting converter to operate in inverting, boost, and boost-inverting modes, reducing peak inductor current and power loss.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If the boost-inverting converter is operated in continuous mode by switching between inverting and boost modes, then the converter can provide dual functionality, but the inductor cannot completely release stored energy leading to error operation

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedual functionality (inverting and boost modes)VSAvoiderror operation
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The control apparatus determines whether to operate in inverting or boost mode before the inductor completely releases its stored energy. By making the mode switching decision in advance based on output voltage feedback rather than waiting for energy release completion, the system achieves continuous operation without error conditions.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

2Adaptability or versatility

If the boost-inverting converter is designed to operate in both inverting and boost modes, then higher peak inductor current is required, but this leads to increased power loss and more complex switch design

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemulti-mode operation capabilityVSAvoidpower loss
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSLoss of energy

Solution Approach 1:

The control apparatus dynamically selects between inverting and boost modes based on real-time feedback from error amplifiers monitoring the output voltages. This dynamic mode selection allows the converter to operate efficiently in the optimal mode for current conditions, reducing peak inductor current and power loss compared to a design that must accommodate both modes simultaneously at full capability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

3Adaptability or versatility

If the boost-inverting converter is designed to operate in both inverting and boost modes, then higher peak inductor current is required, but this leads to more complex and expensive switch design

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemulti-mode operation capabilityVSAvoidswitch design complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The control apparatus dynamically selects between inverting and boost modes based on real-time feedback, allowing the use of simpler switches that only need to handle the requirements of one mode at a time rather than switches designed for the combined peak current of both modes. This reduces switch complexity and cost.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The same converter circuit and switches are used for both inverting and boost operations by dynamically reconfiguring the circuit through mode selection. This multi-functional approach eliminates the need for separate dedicated circuits for each mode, reducing overall device complexity while maintaining versatility.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

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 normal operation in a continuous mode with reduced peak inductor current, simpler switch design, and lower power loss.

Implementation Method 1

an inductor L is connected between the node 102 and ground GND... the inductor L is energized... the inductor L releases the energy stored thereof

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElectromagnetic induction: Electromagnetic Induction

Data Source

PatentUS7327124B2Control apparatus and method for a boost-inverting converter
Publication Date: 2008.02.05 RICHTEK TECH
  • US7327124B2 patent drawing
  • US7327124B2 patent drawing
  • US7327124B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A plurality of switches, an inductor and two capacitors are configured to be a boost-inverting converter. To operate the converter in a boost-inverting mode, a control apparatus and method switch the switches such that the inductor is energized in a first phase, the first capacitor is discharged to produce an inverting voltage in a second phase, and the capacitor Cout1 is discharged to produce the inverting voltage and the second capacitor is charged to produce a boost voltage in a third phase. Therefore, the boost-inverting converter has lower peak inductor current and less power loss, and the limitation to the switch design for the boost-inverting converter is relaxed.