DC-DC Converter With Fixed-Frequency Active Bridge
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Solution Overview
Problem
DC-DC power supplies fed by constant current sources face challenges in regulating output voltage efficiently, particularly in applications with high input voltage ranges and varying load conditions, leading to increased costs and component stress.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of a DC-DC converter apparatus with an active bridge section operating at a fixed switching frequency, coupled with a resonant section including a transformer and resonant capacitor, and multiple output rectifier sections, where the controller regulates output voltage by controlling the active bridge section's switching, matching the resonant frequency for efficient voltage regulation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If the input voltage range is increased to cover high voltage ratings, then the adaptability of the power supply is improved, but the cost of the converter increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs dynamic voltage regulation through pulse-width modulation (PWM) control of the H-bridge converter, allowing the system to adapt to varying input voltages within a wide range. The controller dynamically adjusts the duty cycle to maintain stable output voltage regardless of input variations, eliminating the need for multiple fixed-voltage converter designs and reducing overall system cost.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes operating parameters (switching duty cycle, switching frequency) to accommodate different input voltage conditions. By varying these parameters dynamically rather than designing for fixed voltage points, the converter achieves wide input voltage adaptability while using a single standardized design, reducing cost.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the output voltage range is extended to cover high voltage ratings, then the adaptability of the power supply is improved, but the cost of the converter increases
Solution Approach 1:
The H-bridge converter with PWM control enables dynamic adjustment of output voltage across a wide range. The controller modulates the switching duty cycle to precisely regulate output voltage from low to high levels, allowing a single converter design to replace multiple fixed-output designs, thereby reducing cost.
Solution Approach 2:
The H-bridge converter topology provides universal voltage regulation capability, serving multiple output voltage requirements with a single device. This multi-functional approach eliminates the need for separate converter designs for different voltage levels, reducing overall system cost and complexity.
3Use of energy by moving object
If resonant frequency matching is implemented for efficient power transfer, then the energy efficiency is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements resonant power transfer by tuning the LC tank circuit to operate at its resonant frequency. This causes the impedance to be purely resistive at resonance, maximizing power transfer efficiency. The resonant oscillation between the inductor and capacitor enables efficient energy exchange with minimal losses.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses feedback control to monitor and maintain operation at the resonant frequency. The controller adjusts switching parameters based on feedback signals to keep the LC tank at resonance, ensuring continuous efficient power transfer while automatically compensating for parameter variations.
4Measurement precision
If the switching frequency is increased to improve voltage regulation response, then the voltage regulation precision is improved, but the loss of energy increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system employs periodic switching at an optimized frequency that balances regulation response with loss minimization. By using resonant frequency switching, the system achieves good voltage regulation while minimizing switching losses, as the resonant operation allows for soft switching conditions.
Solution Approach 2:
The controller dynamically adjusts the switching frequency and duty cycle parameters to optimize the trade-off between regulation precision and energy loss. By varying these parameters based on load conditions and resonant state, the system maintains precise voltage regulation while minimizing switching losses.
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 provides robust and efficient voltage regulation across a wide range of loads and output voltages, minimizing component stress and operational costs, while maintaining high efficiency and reliability.
Implementation Method 1
a resonant section with a resonant inductor, a transformer and a resonant capacitor... The fixed switching frequency of the active bridge section matches a resonant frequency of the resonant section
Implementation Method 2
a transformer with a primary winding and a plurality of secondary windings... The resonant inductor is connected in series with the primary winding
Implementation Method 3
two or more output rectifier sections where each secondary winding is connected to an output rectifier section
Data Source
AI summary
An apparatus includes an active bridge section with input terminals that receive power from a constant current source where the active bridge section operates at a fixed switching frequency. The apparatus includes a resonant section with a resonant inductor, a transformer and a resonant capacitor. The inductor is connected in series with a primary winding and the capacitor is connected in parallel with a secondary winding of the transformer. The resonant section is connected to an output of the active bridge section. The apparatus includes an output rectifier section that receives power from the resonant section and includes output terminals for connection to a load, and includes a controller that regulates output voltage to the load where the controller regulates output voltage to the load by controlling switching of the active bridge section. The fixed switching frequency of the active bridge section matches a resonant frequency of the resonant section.