DC-DC Converter with Adjustable Regulator Parameter Sets
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional switching power supplies face challenges in meeting stringent regulatory requirements due to high harmonic content in supply current, which complicates approval and certification, especially when charging high-voltage vehicle batteries from public mains power supplies.
Innovation Solution
A converter system with interchangeable parameter sets for the regulator allows for real-time adjustment of voltage regulation behavior, switching between slower and faster regulation modes based on characteristic parameters to maintain power factor and prevent voltage fluctuations, thereby optimizing the power factor and reducing harmonic content.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Object-generated harmful factors
If a slower regulation behavior is used in the regulator, then the power factor is improved, but the response to voltage deviations becomes delayed
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by making the regulator's behavior adjustable between different modes. The control unit switches between a first parameter set (slower regulation, better power factor) and a second parameter set (faster regulation, worse power factor) based on operating conditions. This dynamic adaptation allows the system to optimize between power factor and response speed depending on whether the converter is operating in PFC mode or voltage regulation mode.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the regulator's parameters by providing multiple parameter sets with different characteristic values. The control unit selects which parameter set to use based on the operating mode. This parameter change approach enables the regulator to have different regulation behaviors (slower for PFC mode, faster for voltage regulation mode) without requiring separate hardware circuits.
2Speed
If a faster regulation behavior is used in the regulator, then the response to voltage deviations is improved, but the power factor deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically switches between fast and slow regulation behaviors based on operational needs. During PFC operation, the slower regulation maintains good power factor, while during voltage regulation events, the faster regulation provides rapid response. This dynamic switching resolves the contradiction by applying the appropriate regulation speed context-dependently.
Solution Approach 2:
The control unit changes the regulator's parameter set based on the detected operating mode. When voltage regulation is needed, the system switches to the second parameter set with faster response characteristics. When operating in normal PFC mode, the system uses the first parameter set with slower, power-factor-optimized characteristics.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple parameter sets are implemented for different regulation behaviors, then the adaptability to different operating conditions is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent achieves multi-functionality by using a single regulator circuit that can operate with different parameter sets. The same hardware regulator performs both PFC optimization (slower regulation) and voltage regulation (faster regulation) functions by switching between parameter sets, rather than requiring separate hardware circuits for each function.
Solution Approach 2:
The system manages complexity by changing software/control parameters rather than adding hardware complexity. The control unit stores multiple parameter sets and selects the appropriate one based on operating conditions, allowing the same physical regulator to adapt to different modes without increasing hardware complexity.
4Speed
If the regulator continuously switches between parameter sets, then the response to changing conditions is improved, but hysteresis effects and continuous switching occur
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies beforehand cushioning by introducing dead zones and hysteresis thresholds before allowing parameter set switching. The control unit only switches parameter sets when characteristic values exceed predefined thresholds, preventing unnecessary switching near boundary conditions and stabilizing the regulator's behavior.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses feedback by continuously monitoring characteristic values and comparing them against thresholds before triggering parameter set switches. This feedback mechanism ensures that switching occurs only when genuinely needed and prevents oscillatory behavior by incorporating hysteresis that requires the parameter to move beyond the threshold before switching back.
Data Source
AI summary
A converter is provided for converting a DC input voltage (UE) into a DC output voltage (UA). The converter includes a regulator for regulating the DC output voltage (UA) to a target value (UAS), wherein the regulator comprises a parameter set that determines the regulation behavior thereof. The converter includes a measurement module for determining at least one characteristic value (K) of at least one characteristic parameter of the converter, and at least two interchangeable parameter sets for the regulator Each one of the parameter sets can be activated in the regulator, wherein a first one of the parameter sets has a slower regulation behavior with regard to the DC output voltage (UA) than a second of the parameter sets. The converter includes a control module for the exchange and activation of each of the parameter sets in the regulator depending on at least one of the characteristic parameters.