Converter Burst Mode Control via Dynamic Frequency Threshold

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional resonant converters require additional circuit elements to vary the switching frequency threshold according to input voltage, leading to increased switching losses and complexity in controlling burst mode operations.

Innovation Solution

A converter configuration that includes a square wave generator, voltage supply unit, and switch controller, which detects output voltage and current levels to control burst mode operations without needing to detect switching frequency, using comparators and logic operations to determine when to start and end burst mode based on reference values and load conditions.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If additional circuit elements are used to vary the switching frequency threshold according to input voltage, then the converter can maintain optimal switching frequency, but the device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveswitching frequency threshold adjustmentVSAvoidcircuit elements
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The converter controller automatically adjusts the switching frequency threshold based on detected input voltage levels without requiring external circuitry. The controller performs the adaptation function itself by detecting input voltage and autonomously modifying the threshold parameter, eliminating the need for additional adaptive circuit elements.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The switching frequency threshold is dynamically changed as a control parameter based on input voltage detection. The controller modifies the threshold parameter value according to the detected input voltage level, allowing the converter to adapt its switching characteristics without adding physical circuit components.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

2Loss of energy

If the converter operates in burst mode to reduce switching losses, then energy efficiency improves, but the control complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveswitching lossesVSAvoidcontrol circuitry
Core Design Contradiction:
Loss of energyVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The converter controller autonomously determines when to enter and exit burst mode by comparing detected switching frequency against the dynamically adjusted threshold. The controller self-manages the burst mode control logic without requiring external control circuitry, simplifying the overall system while maintaining energy efficiency.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The converter implements a feedback mechanism where the controller continuously detects the switching frequency and compares it with the input voltage-dependent threshold. This feedback loop automatically triggers burst mode when the threshold is exceeded, enabling energy-efficient operation through automated frequency monitoring and adaptive threshold comparison.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

3Stability of the object's composition

If the switching frequency increases to maintain output voltage under light load, then output voltage stability improves, but switching losses increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveoutput voltage stabilityVSAvoidswitching losses
Core Design Contradiction:
Stability of the object's compositionVSLoss of energy

Solution Approach 1:

The converter dynamically adjusts its operating mode between continuous switching and burst mode based on real-time load conditions and input voltage levels. Under light load conditions, the converter transitions to burst mode with lower switching frequency, while maintaining output voltage stability through adaptive control that responds to changing operational requirements.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The switching frequency parameter is dynamically changed based on load conditions and input voltage. The controller modifies the switching frequency to match operational requirements, using higher frequencies when needed for voltage stability and lower frequencies in burst mode when loads are light, thereby optimizing the balance between voltage stability and energy efficiency.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

Data Source

PatentUS8115466B2Converter and driving method thereof
Publication Date: 2012.02.14 SEMICON COMPONENTS IND LLC
  • US8115466B2 patent drawing
  • US8115466B2 patent drawing
  • US8115466B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A converter is disclosed for using at least one switch to convert an input signal to a square wave signal, and using the square wave signal to generate an output voltage. The converter converts the square wave signal by a switching operation of a switch and generates the output voltage, and includes a switch controller for controlling the switching operation. The switch controller generates a first signal VCT having a first period that varies according to an output voltage, controls the switching operation of the switch by using the first signal, detects the output voltage, a first current Ids2 flowing through the switch, and a level of the first signal, and controls a burst mode according to the detection results.