Switched Power Converter Bypass Circuitry for Non-Overlapping Time Intervals
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Switched mode power converters with multiple outputs experience power losses due to non-overlapping times during the activation and deactivation of output ports, leading to inefficiencies in energy distribution.
Innovation Solution
A DC-DC power converter design incorporating a main inductor and a half bridge with n-type MOS transistors, featuring bypass circuitry and a control unit that directs inductor current to output ports in mutually exclusive time intervals, allowing the inductor current to be used during non-overlapping times for controlling power switches and storing energy in a boost capacitor to optimize power efficiency.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If switching elements are used to supply energy to different outputs in a mutually exclusive manner, then multiple outputs can be served from a single inductor, but non-overlapping times between output activation lead to power losses
Solution Approach 1:
The patent captures the energy that would normally be lost during non-overlapping times and redirects it to charge a storage capacitor. The bypass circuitry provides a path for the inductor current to flow during these intervals, converting what would be wasted energy into useful stored energy that can be used later, thus resolving the contradiction between multiple output capability and energy loss.
2Ease of operation
If output switches are activated in mutually exclusive time intervals, then inductor current can be directed to different outputs, but non-overlapping times cause interruption of current flow and energy waste
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a storage capacitor as an intermediary energy reservoir. During non-overlapping times when output switches are not directing current to loads, the bypass circuitry routes the inductor current to charge this capacitor. The capacitor then serves as a mediator, providing continuous energy supply to outputs without interruption, thus eliminating energy loss while maintaining ease of switching control.
3Extent of automation
If inductor current is blocked during non-overlapping times to control output switching, then output ports can be selectively activated, but the blocked current represents lost energy opportunity
Solution Approach 1:
The bypass circuitry enables the inductor current to serve itself during non-overlapping times by automatically routing to the storage capacitor without requiring external control intervention. This self-service mechanism ensures that energy is continuously utilized and stored rather than wasted, while the control unit maintains automatic switching capability for output ports, thus resolving the contradiction between automation and energy utilization 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 solution reduces power losses by utilizing inductor current during non-overlapping times for switch control and energy storage, enhancing the overall efficiency of the power converter and allowing stable output currents even during intermittent inductor current provision.
Implementation Method 1
The half bridge may be used for generating an inductor current through the main inductor
Implementation Method 2
making the inductor current available for controlling the switching state of at least one of the power switches
Data Source
AI summary
A switched mode power converter comprising a main inductor and a half bridge for providing an inductor current is described. The power converter comprises a first output power switch for directing the inductor current to a first output port and bypass circuitry for making at least part of the inductor current available for controlling the switching state of at least one of the power switches. Furthermore, the power converter comprises a control unit configured to control the first output power switch such that the inductor current is directed to the first output port within different first time intervals. Furthermore, the bypass circuitry is controlled to make the inductor current available for controlling the switching state of the at least one power switch during a non-overlapping time interval.