DC-DC Converter Mode Transition Control

Resolve Bottlenecks,
Find Innovative Solutions
Generate Solutions

Solution Overview

Problem

Existing DC-DC power converters face challenges in smoothly transitioning between current control mode and voltage control mode, especially under limit conditions such as maximum current or voltage states, and require efficient methods to manage saturation limits during operation.

Innovation Solution

A DC-DC power converter system with multiple switched inductance circuits, current sensors, and a controller that determines and adjusts desired control modes, differential currents, and voltages, incorporating anti-windup functions and saturation limits to ensure seamless operation across modes.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If the DC-DC power converter operates in current control mode or voltage control mode with dynamic transitions, then the adaptability and control flexibility are improved, but the complexity of control and the difficulty of detecting and measuring increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecontrol mode adaptabilityVSAvoidcontrol complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements dynamic transitions between current control mode and voltage control mode based on real-time operating conditions. The controller automatically selects the appropriate control mode by monitoring voltage and current levels, enabling the system to adapt dynamically to changing load conditions and maintain optimal performance across different operating ranges.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The patent employs feedback mechanisms where the controller continuously monitors the output voltage and current from the DC-DC power converter. Based on this feedback, the controller determines whether to operate in current control mode or voltage control mode, and adjusts the control signals accordingly to maintain stable operation and smooth transitions between modes.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

2Power

If the DC-DC power converter operates at limit conditions (maximum current or voltage state), then the power output capability is improved, but the stability and reliability during mode transitions deteriorate

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvepower output capabilityVSAvoidtransition stability
Core Design Contradiction:
PowerVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent prepares for mode transitions in advance by continuously monitoring operating parameters and predicting when limit conditions will be reached. The controller proactively adjusts control signals before the actual transition point to ensure smooth handover between current control mode and voltage control mode, preventing instability and oscillations during mode switching at limit conditions.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

3Reliability

If saturation limits are enforced during operation, then the reliability and safety are improved, but the productivity and power delivery efficiency are reduced

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveoperational safetyVSAvoidpower delivery efficiency
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent dynamically adjusts saturation limits based on the current operating mode and system conditions. Rather than enforcing fixed saturation limits, the controller adapts the limiting thresholds to allow maximum power delivery while maintaining safety, enabling the system to operate efficiently within safe boundaries and only applying limits when necessary to prevent damage or instability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Data Source

PatentUS10541614B1Method and apparatus for controlling a DC/DC power converter
Publication Date: 2020.01.21 GM GLOBAL TECHNOLOGY OPERATIONS LLC
  • US10541614B1 patent drawing
  • US10541614B1 patent drawing
  • US10541614B1 patent drawing

AI summary

A DC-DC power converter is described, and includes switched inductance circuits arranged in parallel, current sensors disposed to monitor one of the switched inductance circuits, and a controller. The DC-DC power converter supplies electric power originating from a DC power source to a high-voltage bus. Control and operation includes determining a desired control mode for operating the DC-DC power converter, wherein the desired control mode includes one of a voltage control mode and a current control mode. A desired voltage and a desired differential current for operating the DC-DC power converter are determined based upon the desired control mode. A desired current for operating the DC-DC power converter is determined based upon the desired differential current. Operation of the DC-DC power converter is controlled in the desired control mode based upon the desired voltage and the desired current.