Electronic Converter Resonant Component Dynamics

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Solution Overview

Problem

Electronic converters used for LED lighting face challenges in maintaining zero voltage switching (ZVS) and zero current switching (ZCS) conditions across varying operating conditions, particularly at low output voltages, leading to inefficiencies and loss of switching conditions.

Innovation Solution

The electronic converter adjusts the values of equivalent resonant components, such as capacitors and inductors, based on operating conditions to maintain ZVS and ZCS, using additional capacitors and inductors with variable values or a charge pump circuit to extend the resonance period and ensure stable switching.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If the converter operates at low output voltages, then the output voltage range is extended, but the ZVS and ZCS switching conditions are lost

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveoutput voltage rangeVSAvoidswitching conditions
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies dynamics by making the resonant circuit components (capacitors and inductors) adjustable rather than fixed. The control unit dynamically selects different capacitor values (Cres1, Cres2) and inductor values (Lres1, Lres2) based on the operating conditions, specifically adapting to different output voltage levels. This allows the resonance period to be extended at low voltages to maintain ZVS and ZCS conditions while expanding the overall output voltage range of the converter.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

2Reliability

If fixed resonant components are used, then the circuit is simple, but the converter cannot maintain ZVS and ZCS across varying operating conditions

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveswitching conditionsVSAvoidcircuit structure
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements dynamics by introducing adjustable resonant components controlled by a control unit. Multiple capacitors (Cres1, Cres2) and inductors (Lres1, Lres2) are provided with different values, and the control unit selectively connects them based on operating conditions. This dynamic configuration maintains reliable ZVS and ZCS switching across varying voltages and currents, while the added complexity is managed through systematic component selection and control logic.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

3Reliability

If additional capacitors and inductors are added to adjust resonance, then the switching conditions are maintained, but the device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveswitching conditionsVSAvoidnumber of components
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies dynamics by implementing a control unit that intelligently selects and connects specific capacitor and inductor combinations based on real-time operating conditions. Instead of having all components permanently connected, the system dynamically configures the resonant circuit by selecting appropriate pairs of capacitors (e.g., Cres1 or Cres2) and inductors (e.g., Lres1 or Lres2), thereby maintaining reliable ZVS and ZCS conditions while managing complexity through controlled component selection.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

4Reliability

If the resonance period is extended, then ZVS and ZCS are maintained at low voltages, but the circuit requires variable resonant components

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveswitching conditionsVSAvoidcomponent configuration
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements dynamics by providing multiple capacitors with different values (Cres1, Cres2) and multiple inductors with different values (Lres1, Lres2) in the resonant circuit. The control unit dynamically selects appropriate component combinations to extend the resonance period when operating at low output voltages, thereby maintaining ZVS and ZCS conditions. This adaptive component configuration allows the system to adjust its resonance characteristics based on operating requirements.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

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

This solution allows the converter to operate efficiently across a wider range of output voltages and currents, maintaining ZVS and ZCS conditions even at low output voltages, thereby improving the overall performance and efficiency of the converter.

Implementation Method 1

a resonant circuit, comprising a capacitor CRS and an inductor LRS

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectResonance: Resonance

Data Source

PatentUS10530263B2Electronic converter and related method of operating an electronic converter
Publication Date: 2020.01.07 ABL IP HLDG LLC
  • US10530263B2 patent drawing
  • US10530263B2 patent drawing
  • US10530263B2 patent drawing

AI summary

An electronic converter comprising an input comprising two terminals for receiving a first power signal, and an output comprising two terminals for providing a second power signal. On the primary side, the converter comprises a half-bridge, a transformer and a first capacitor. Specifically, the first capacitor and the primary winding of the transformer are connected in series between the intermediate point of the half-bridge and an input terminal. On the secondary side, the converter comprises a diode, a second capacitor and an inductor. The second capacitor and the secondary winding of the transformer are connected in series between the cathode and anode of the diode, and the inductor and the output are connected in series between the cathode and the anode of the diode. The electronic converter comprises a third capacitor and at least one electronic switch adapted to selectively connect the third capacitor in parallel with the second capacitor.