Power Converter Switching Topologies for Voltage Ride-Through
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Solution Overview
Problem
Power converters face inefficiencies and reduced ride-through capabilities due to fixed duty cycles, which are not adaptable to varying input voltages, leading to suboptimal performance and energy storage during power outages.
Innovation Solution
A method and apparatus that switch between a dual switch topology and a bridge forward topology in a power converter, using a controller to adjust duty cycles based on input voltage thresholds, allowing for efficient operation and extended ride-through time by optimizing energy usage from capacitors.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a fixed duty cycle is used in the power converter, then the control is simple, but the efficiency is reduced and ride-through capability is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic topology switching between dual-switch and bridge-forward configurations based on real-time input voltage conditions. The controller monitors input voltage and automatically transitions between topologies to maintain optimal duty cycle ranges, thereby maximizing converter efficiency across varying line conditions while keeping control logic manageable through predefined switching thresholds.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the operational parameters by switching between two distinct circuit topologies (dual-switch and bridge-forward) depending on input voltage levels. This parameter change allows the converter to operate at optimal duty cycles for each topology, improving overall efficiency without requiring complex continuous control adjustments.
2Device complexity
If a fixed duty cycle is used in the power converter, then the circuit design is simple, but the ride-through time during power outages is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent dynamically switches between dual-switch topology at higher input voltages and bridge-forward topology at lower input voltages. This dynamic adaptation allows the converter to maintain proper minimum and maximum duty cycle ranges, optimizing energy transfer and extending the ability to sustain output voltage during input voltage sags or outages, thereby increasing ride-through time.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent makes the power converter multi-functional by incorporating two different topologies within a single device. The dual-switch topology handles normal/higher voltage conditions efficiently, while the bridge-forward topology provides enhanced ride-through capability during low voltage conditions. This universal design allows one converter to handle multiple operating scenarios effectively.
3Device complexity
If the power converter operates without topology switching, then the device structure is simple, but the adaptability to varying input voltages is poor
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic topology selection based on input voltage thresholds. The controller continuously monitors input voltage and switches between dual-switch and bridge-forward topologies to maintain optimal operation across a wide voltage range, significantly improving adaptability while keeping the structural complexity manageable through standardized component arrangements.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a universal power converter capable of handling diverse input voltage conditions by integrating two complementary topologies. Each topology is optimized for specific voltage ranges, and the controller seamlessly transitions between them, making the device highly adaptable to varying input voltages without requiring multiple separate converters.
4Loss of energy
If higher duty cycles are used to improve efficiency, then the energy conversion is more efficient, but the stored energy in capacitors is insufficient for power outages
Solution Approach 1:
The patent dynamically adjusts the duty cycle by switching topologies based on input voltage conditions. During normal operation with sufficient input voltage, the dual-switch topology operates at higher duty cycles for optimal efficiency. During voltage sags or outages, the bridge-forward topology maintains proper duty cycle ranges while utilizing stored capacitor energy, thereby extending the duration of power supply without sacrificing efficiency during normal operation.
Data Source
AI summary
Switching between a dual switch topology and a bridge forward topology in a power converter includes: receiving an input voltage; providing, via the dual switch topology, an output voltage; determining that the input voltage falls below a first threshold; switching a path of the input voltage from the dual switch topology to the bridge forward topology; and providing, via the bridge forward topology, the output voltage.