DC-DC Voltage Converter Output Control for Power Line Communication
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Solution Overview
Problem
Power line communication signals cannot pass through DC-DC voltage converters in power distribution systems, necessitating additional infrastructure like separate data networks and dual modems, which are costly and heavy, particularly in aerospace applications where weight is a critical factor.
Innovation Solution
A voltage converter that superposes a power line communication signal onto the target DC output voltage, adjusting its operation to drive the output voltage towards the target, allowing communication to be maintained without additional infrastructure.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Use of energy by moving object
If a DC-DC voltage converter is used to convert high voltage to low voltage, then power distribution efficiency is improved, but power line communication signals cannot pass through the converter
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary circuit that couples the communication signal to the output of the DC-DC converter. This intermediary acts as a bridge, allowing the communication signal to be transmitted through the converter's output without interfering with the voltage conversion function. The intermediary circuit injects the communication signal into the output node, enabling both power conversion and signal transmission to coexist.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent makes the DC-DC converter output serve dual functions: providing converted voltage power and transmitting communication signals. By coupling the communication signal to the output node, the converter output becomes a universal interface that handles both power delivery and data communication, eliminating the need for separate communication infrastructure.
2Reliability
If separate data networks and dual modems are implemented to maintain power line communication, then communication reliability is improved, but system weight and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the power distribution function and communication function into a single integrated system. Instead of having separate data networks and dual modems, the communication signal is coupled to the existing power converter output, combining both functions into one infrastructure. This reduces the overall system weight by eliminating redundant communication hardware while maintaining communication reliability through the integrated approach.
3Adaptability or versatility
If separate data networks and dual modems are implemented, then communication capability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a universal output interface that serves both power delivery and communication purposes. The single output node of the DC-DC converter is coupled to handle both functions, eliminating the need for separate data networks and dual modems. This reduces device complexity by consolidating multiple functions into a single interface while maintaining full communication capability through the coupled signal injection.
Data Source
AI summary
A voltage converter for converting an input voltage to an output voltage includes a controller arranged to: superpose a power line communication signal onto a target DC output voltage to provide a target output voltage; compare the output voltage of the voltage converter with the target output voltage; and adjust operation of the voltage converter so as to drive the output voltage towards the target output voltage.