DC/DC Converter Flying Capacitor Segmentation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing DC/DC converters with flying capacitors face limitations in using multiple DC input voltages from different sources, as the switching elements are loaded with the full DC output voltage, requiring additional boost converters for high link circuit voltages and complicating the connection of multiple DC voltage sources.
Innovation Solution
A DC/DC converter design with a flying capacitor configuration where the capacitor is decoupled from additional capacitance by inductors, allowing direct connection of multiple low-voltage terminals and enabling the high DC voltage to be set relative to low DC voltages, with magnetically coupled inductors for common mode decoupling and differential mode recharging, and stabilizing capacitors to maintain voltage stability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If the capacitor is directly connected to multiple DC voltage sources, then the converter can accept multiple input voltages, but the switching elements are loaded with the full DC output voltage requiring additional boost converters
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the single capacitor into multiple separate capacitors, each connected to a different DC voltage source. This segmentation allows each switching element to handle only the voltage difference between its associated capacitor and the output capacitor, rather than the full output voltage, thereby eliminating the need for additional boost converters while maintaining compatibility with multiple input voltage sources.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces intermediate capacitors as mediators between the multiple DC voltage sources and the output capacitor. These intermediate capacitors buffer the voltage differences, allowing switching elements to operate at lower voltage stresses. The intermediaries enable direct connection of multiple voltage sources without requiring the switching elements to withstand the full output voltage.
2Productivity
If the capacitor potential jumps are used for voltage conversion, then the converter operates efficiently, but the jumping electrical potential limits the possible uses of the converter
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the voltage conversion function across multiple capacitors and switching elements. Each switching element handles only the voltage difference between its associated capacitor and the output, rather than the full output voltage. This segmentation enables the converter to be used in applications with various output voltage requirements without being limited by the jumping potential of a single capacitor.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the voltage parameters handled by each switching element by introducing intermediate capacitors at different voltage levels. This allows the converter to adapt to different application requirements by adjusting which capacitors are connected and how the voltage differences are utilized, thereby expanding the range of possible uses while maintaining efficient operation.
3Stability of the object's composition
If the DC output voltage is set as a weighted average of DC input voltages to maintain stabilizing capacitor voltage, then voltage stability is maintained, but the high link circuit voltage requires additional boost converter
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the voltage regulation function across multiple capacitors, each associated with a different DC voltage source. The stabilizing capacitor is divided into multiple capacitors, with each handling a portion of the voltage regulation task. This segmentation allows the system to achieve voltage stability without requiring the DC output voltage to be a weighted average, and eliminates the need for additional boost converters even when high link circuit voltages are required.
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 design allows for flexible connection of multiple DC voltage sources without loading switching elements with full DC output voltage, simplifying the connection of low-voltage terminals and enabling higher high DC voltage settings, while maintaining stable low DC voltages and efficient energy storage.
Implementation Method 1
the two inductors which decouple the further capacitance from the capacitor are magnetically coupled in the manner of a current-compensated inductor
Data Source
AI summary
A DC/DC converter includes a first low-voltage terminal point, a second low-voltage terminal point and a third low-voltage terminal point, and a first high-voltage terminal point and a second high-voltage terminal point. The first low-voltage terminal point and the first high-voltage terminal point are directly connected to one another, and an actively drivable switching element, a capacitor and a further switching element are connected in series between the first high-voltage terminal point and the second high-voltage terminal point. The capacitor is connected between the second low-voltage terminal point and the third low-voltage terminal point, a further capacitance is directly connected between the second low-voltage terminal point and the third low-voltage terminal point, and the further capacitance is decoupled from the capacitor at two terminals by two inductors, respectively.