DC-DC Converter High Transformer Ratio Segmentation

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional direct current to direct current converters with isolation transformers face issues of energy loss and security risks due to leakage inductance, compromising both energy conversion efficiency and reliability, especially when achieving high boost ratios.

Innovation Solution

A direct current to direct current converter with high transformer ratio is achieved by connecting the inputs of two converter bodies in parallel and outputs in series, eliminating the need for an isolation transformer, thus avoiding additional energy loss and security risks.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Power

If an isolation transformer is introduced to achieve high boost ratio, then the voltage transformation capability is improved, but energy loss increases and security reliability deteriorates due to leakage inductance

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveboost ratioVSAvoidenergy conversion efficiency
Core Design Contradiction:
PowerVSLoss of energy

Solution Approach 1:

The patent divides the single transformer function into two separate converter bodies (first and second boost converters) with independent inductors and switches. Each converter body handles part of the voltage transformation task, achieving high boost ratio without requiring an isolation transformer with high leakage inductance that would cause energy loss.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent extracts and eliminates the isolation transformer from the circuit topology. By using two non-isolated boost converters connected in series at the output, the design removes the source of leakage inductance problems while maintaining the voltage transformation capability through series connection of the two converter outputs.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #2Taking out (Extraction)

2Power

If an isolation transformer is used to achieve high boost ratio, then the voltage transformation capability is improved, but security reliability deteriorates due to leakage inductance causing switch voltage overshoot and electromagnetic interference

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveboost ratioVSAvoidsecurity reliability
Core Design Contradiction:
PowerVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The isolation transformer is completely removed from the circuit. The two boost converters use standard non-isolated topology with clamping circuits that prevent voltage overshoot and electromagnetic interference, achieving high boost ratio without the reliability issues of isolation transformers.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #2Taking out (Extraction)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent converts the potential harm of high voltage stress in boost converters into a benefit by implementing clamping circuits (using diodes and capacitors) that protect the switches from voltage overshoot. This allows the system to achieve high boost ratio while maintaining switch safety and reducing electromagnetic interference.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #22Blessing in disguise (Convert harm into benefit)

3Power

If an isolation transformer is introduced, then the voltage transformation capability is improved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveboost ratioVSAvoidconverter structure complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
PowerVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The complex isolation transformer is segmented into two simpler boost converter modules. Each module contains standard components (inductor, switch, diode, capacitor) that are easier to design and manufacture than a high-ratio isolation transformer, reducing overall device complexity while achieving the same voltage transformation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent merges two standard boost converters in series at the output to achieve high voltage transformation ratio. This combination approach is simpler than designing a single complex isolation transformer, as it uses off-the-shelf converter topology with well-understood component specifications and easier thermal management.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

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 configuration enhances energy conversion efficiency and reliability while achieving a high boost ratio without the drawbacks of isolation transformers, ensuring secure and efficient operation.

Implementation Method 1

a first inductor L1, a first power switch QH1 and a first series branch... a second inductor L2, a third power switch QL1 and a second series branch

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElectromagnetic induction: Electromagnetic Induction

Implementation Method 2

The first series branch includes a second power switch QH2, a first capacitor C1 and a second capacitor C2 which are connected in series... the second series branch includes a fourth power switch QL2, a third capacitor C3 and the second diode QL3 which are connected in series

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectCapacitance: Capacitance

Data Source

PatentEP3163734B1DC-DC converter with high transformer ratio
Publication Date: 2022.03.30 SUNGROW POWER SUPPLY CO LTD
  • EP3163734B1 patent drawingFigure 1~2a
  • EP3163734B1 patent drawingFigure 2b~2c
  • EP3163734B1 patent drawingFigure 2d~3

AI summary

A DC-DC converter with a high transformer ratio includes two DC-DC converter bodies with inputs connected in parallel and outputs connected in series so as to ensure the high safe reliability and the high energy conversion efficiency of the DC-DC converter, while increase the boost ratio of the DC-DC converter.