Charge-Pump DC/DC Converter Topology for High-Power Zero-Current Switching
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing DC/DC converters based on charge pump principles face limitations in delivering high power efficiently, particularly in terms of power density and component stress, and require complex control hardware and risk of overcurrent and oscillations.
Innovation Solution
A DC/DC converter design utilizing a sub-circuit with inductance and capacitance in series and a diode in parallel, optimized for booster and buck modes, which simplifies control through zero current switching and reduces stress on components by using a capacitor as storage, eliminating the need for complex control hardware and minimizing overcurrent and oscillation risks.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Use of energy by moving object
If a DC/DC converter based on charge pump principle is used, then power density is improved, but the ability to deliver high power efficiently deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The converter is divided into multiple independent sub-circuits, each capable of operating autonomously. This segmentation allows parallel operation of multiple charge pump stages, enabling high power delivery while maintaining the high power density characteristics of individual charge pump units. The modular structure facilitates scalable power output.
Solution Approach 2:
The converter operates through periodic switching cycles where sub-circuits are alternately connected to input and output terminals. This periodic action enables continuous power transfer by ensuring that while one sub-circuit is charging its capacitor from the input, another is discharging to the output, thereby delivering high power efficiently.
2Measurement precision
If complex control hardware is used, then control precision is improved, but device complexity deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The converter employs self-service control mechanisms where the switching actions are automatically coordinated through the circuit topology and component characteristics. The control logic is simplified by leveraging the natural behavior of capacitors and inductors to regulate power transfer, eliminating the need for complex external control hardware while maintaining precise control.
Solution Approach 2:
The converter incorporates feedback mechanisms that monitor output voltage and current levels, automatically adjusting switching timing and duration to maintain precise control. This feedback-based regulation achieves high control precision through simple comparator circuits and timing control, avoiding complex control hardware.
3Adaptability or versatility
If switches are used for connecting sub-circuit terminals, then adaptability is improved, but the risk of overcurrent and oscillations deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The converter incorporates protective elements such as freewheeling diodes and snubber circuits that are pre-configured to prevent overcurrent and oscillations before they can occur. These cushioning elements automatically activate during switching transitions to dampen voltage spikes and limit current surges, maintaining reliability while preserving switching flexibility.
Solution Approach 2:
The converter uses intermediate components such as buffer capacitors and isolation diodes that mediate between switches and the main power path. These intermediaries absorb transient energy and prevent direct coupling of switching oscillations to the load, thereby reducing the risk of overcurrent and oscillations while maintaining the adaptability of switch-based 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
The solution enables high-power, efficient DC/DC conversion with reduced component stress, simpler control modules, and adjustable output voltage, while minimizing the risk of overvoltage and oscillations, thus enhancing reliability and power density.
Implementation Method 1
a sub-circuit with an inductance and a capacitance in series
Implementation Method 2
a sub-circuit with an inductance and a capacitance in series
Data Source
Figure 1a~1b
Figure 2a~2b
Figure 3a~3b
AI summary
The invention relates to the field of DC/DC converter, particularly based on charge pump principle, both in booster mode and in buck mode. The invention further relates to a method for operating a DC/DC converter (10) in a booster mode, the DC/DC converter (10) comprising a sub-circuit (20) with an inductance (L1) and a capacitance (C1) in series and a diode (D1) in parallel to the capacitance (C1), the diode (D1) blocking during loading the capacitance (C1), the method comprising the steps of: loading the capacitance (C1), by connecting a first end (21) of the sub-circuit (20) to a plus terminal of a DC voltage source (Input) and a second end (22) of the sub-circuit (20) to a minus terminal of the DC voltage source (Input); connecting the first end (21) of the sub-circuit (20) to a plus terminal of an output (Load) of the DC/DC converter (10) and the second end (22) of the sub circuit (20) to the plus terminal of a DC voltage source (Input); and disconnecting the first end (21) and the second end (22) of the sub-circuit (20).