Converter Module Phase Shift for Electromagnetic Interference Reduction

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Solution Overview

Problem

Electrified vehicle converter modules generate electromagnetic interference due to the switching of DC voltage, affecting other systems and components, and existing solutions fail to effectively mitigate this interference while maintaining efficient power conversion.

Innovation Solution

A converter module with a switching circuit and controller that alternately enables and disables switches to generate a phase-shifted square waveform, reducing electromagnetic interference by controlling the power delivery circuits to provide a periodic waveform with predetermined voltage segments and edge phases, and incorporating snubber circuits to damp transient voltages.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Productivity

If switches are enabled/disabled to generate square waveforms for power conversion, then power delivery efficiency is improved, but electromagnetic interference is generated affecting other systems

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvepower conversion efficiencyVSAvoidelectromagnetic interference
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSObject-generated harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies periodic action by enabling and disabling switches in alternating sequences to generate phase-shifted square waveforms. The controller enables first and second power delivery circuits alternately, with each circuit's switches being disabled individually in sequence to create periodic waveforms with controlled phase shifts. This periodic switching achieves efficient power conversion while the phase shifting reduces electromagnetic interference through destructive interference of radiation patterns.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #19Periodic action

2Object-affected harmful factors

If phase shifting is implemented to reduce electromagnetic interference, then electromagnetic compatibility is improved, but waveform distortion may occur

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveelectromagnetic compatibilityVSAvoidwaveform integrity
Core Design Contradiction:
Object-affected harmful factorsVSStability of the object's composition

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements parameter changes by controlling the timing and sequence of switch disabling to generate phase-shifted waveforms. The controller disables switches individually in specific sequences, creating controlled phase shifts between different power delivery circuits. This parameter control achieves electromagnetic compatibility through phase cancellation while maintaining waveform integrity by preventing excessive distortion through careful timing control.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

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 effectively reduces electromagnetic interference, improving electromagnetic compatibility and efficiency in power conversion, as demonstrated by reduced emissions during EMC tests and enhanced efficiency compared to previous methods, allowing for potential cost savings in snubber circuit components.

Implementation Method 1

a resonant stage. The first power delivery circuit supplies current from a first direct current (DC) source to the resonant stage

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectResonance: Resonance

Data Source

PatentUS11557978B2Converter module with phase shift
Publication Date: 2023.01.17 LEAR CORP
  • US11557978B2 patent drawing
  • US11557978B2 patent drawing
  • US11557978B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A converter module is provided with a first power delivery circuit, a second power delivery circuit, and a controller. The first power delivery circuit supplies current from a first direct current (DC) source to a resonant stage in a first direction. The first power delivery circuit comprises at least two first switches. The second power delivery circuit supplies the current from the first DC source to the resonant stage in a second direction, opposite the first direction. The controller includes memory, and a processor that is programmed to: enable the first power delivery circuit and the second power delivery circuit alternately to provide power as a periodic waveform to the resonant stage; and disable the at least two first switches individually in a sequence to generate a phase shift in the periodic waveform and to disable the first power delivery circuit.