Buck-Boost Power Converter Topology for Wide-Range Constant Power
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current DC-DC converters for wide input voltage ranges are inefficient and bulky, particularly in high power rating and high power density applications, leading to increased switching and conduction losses, complex gate driver circuitry, and scalability issues.
Innovation Solution
A bidirectional power converter with a first and second bridge circuit, an inductor, and a transformer with magnetically coupled windings, utilizing 4-quadrant switches and a controller to manage bidirectional voltage blocking and convert input voltage into output voltage in buck or boost modes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of energy
If conventional DC-DC converters are used for wide input voltage ranges, then voltage conversion capability is achieved, but efficiency deteriorates due to increased switching and conduction losses
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic switching between buck and boost modes based on the input voltage range. The controller dynamically adjusts the operating mode to optimize efficiency: buck mode forVin > Vout and boost mode for Vin < Vout, thereby reducing overall switching and conduction losses while maintaining wide voltage adaptability
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the operating parameters (switching frequency, duty cycle, and operating mode) based on the input voltage conditions. By adjusting these parameters dynamically, the converter maintains high efficiency across wide input voltage ranges while adapting to different operating conditions
2Power
If high power ratings are required, then power delivery capability is improved, but power density deteriorates due to bulky components
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the power conversion function into two distinct bridge circuits (first bridge for buck operation, second bridge for boost operation) that share common components. This segmentation allows each circuit to be optimized for its specific function while reducing overall component size through shared magnetics and control infrastructure
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements multi-functionality where the same inductor and controller serve both buck and boost operations. The first and second bridge circuits share the inductor, controller, and other components, allowing a single device to deliver high power ratings while maintaining compact size through component sharing
3Adaptability or versatility
If voltage gain is not equal to 1, then voltage conversion ratio is improved, but device complexity increases due to high-side device control requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The patent dynamically adjusts the duty cycle of the switching devices based on the desired voltage conversion ratio. The controller dynamically calculates and applies the appropriate duty cycle for both buck and boost modes, enabling flexible voltage conversion while maintaining relatively simple gate driver circuitry through centralized control
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
Achieves high efficiency and power density with reduced component stress and losses, enabling scalable power operation and improved thermal performance, suitable for applications like telecom base stations and mobile devices.
Implementation Method 1
The transformer may include: a first transformer winding and a second transformer winding; the first transformer winding may be disposed in the first bridge circuit; and the second transformer winding may be disposed in the second bridge circuit. The first transformer winding may be magnetically coupled to the second transformer winding.
Implementation Method 2
an inductor operative to receive the input voltage; The inductor provides coupling of the input voltage source to the second bridge circuit
Data Source
AI summary
An apparatus as discussed herein can be configured to include a first circuit operative to receive an input voltage supplied by an input voltage source. A series circuit path including an inductor and a second circuit also receives the input voltage. The first circuit may be coupled to the second circuit. The series circuit path including the inductor and the second circuit produces a respective output voltage to power load based at least in part on input from the first circuit.