DC-to-DC Converter with Dual Boost Circuits for Reverse Input

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing DC-to-DC converters with anti-reverse connection functions are inactivated when the input is reverse-connected, as the protection mechanism cuts off the complete circuit loop, preventing normal operation.

Innovation Solution

A DC-to-DC conversion apparatus comprising two boost circuits with inputs connected in parallel and outputs connected in series, utilizing pulse width modulation (PWM) signals and sampling circuits to control switch devices, allowing operation regardless of input connection state.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If a protection mechanism (fuse or MOS transistor) is used to achieve anti-reverse connection function, then the circuit is protected from damage when input is reverse-connected, but the complete circuit loop is cut-off and the product is inactivated

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveprotection against reverse connectionVSAvoidproduct inactivation
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The invention divides the single DC-to-DC conversion circuit into two separate boost circuits with independent input terminals (+ and -). Each circuit can independently process input voltage from its respective terminal. This segmentation allows the system to maintain functionality even when one input terminal is reverse-connected, as the other terminal's circuit remains operational.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The invention inverts the traditional single-input protection approach by creating a dual-input system where each input terminal has its own conversion circuit. Instead of protecting a single circuit by cutting off the loop, the system uses two parallel circuits that can compensate for each other's reverse connection state, effectively solving the problem through structural inversion.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #13The other way round (Inversion)

2Reliability

If a fuse or MOS transistor is used for anti-reverse connection protection, then circuit protection is achieved, but normal operation is prevented when reverse connection occurs

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecircuit protectionVSAvoidoperation continuity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The DC-to-DC conversion system is segmented into two independent boost circuits, each with its own input terminal and control mechanism. This allows one circuit to remain operational and productive even when the other experiences reverse connection, maintaining continuous power conversion capability without complete system shutdown.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The control circuit dynamically changes operating parameters by detecting the connection state of input terminals and adjusting which circuit operates. When reverse connection is detected on one terminal, the control circuit activates the other circuit, changing the operational state from single-circuit to dual-circuit mode to maintain productivity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

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

Enables normal operation of the DC-to-DC conversion apparatus even when the input is reverse-connected, preventing inactivation and ensuring continuous functionality.

Implementation Method 1

A first terminal of the inductor is coupled to the first input terminal

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElectromagnetic induction: Electromagnetic Induction

Implementation Method 2

An anode of the first diode is coupled to a second terminal of the inductor, and a cathode of the first diode is coupled to the output terminal

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectDiode rectification: Diode

Implementation Method 3

A first terminal of the output capacitor is coupled the output terminal, and a second terminal of the output capacitor is coupled to a ground potential

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectCapacitance: Capacitance

Implementation Method 4

A first terminal of the first switch device is coupled to the ground potential, a second terminal of the first switch device is coupled to the second terminal of the inductor, and a control terminal of the first switch device is used for receiving a first pulse width modulation (PWM) signal

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectMOS transistor switching:

Data Source

PatentUS8692524B2DC-to-DC conversion apparatus
Publication Date: 2014.04.08 SPI ELECTRONICS
  • US8692524B2 patent drawing
  • US8692524B2 patent drawing
  • US8692524B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A direct current (DC)-to-DC conversion apparatus is provided. The provided DC-to-DC conversion apparatus is composed of two boost circuits, in which inputs of both boost circuits are connected in parallel, and outputs of both boost circuits are connected in series. Accordingly, when the provided DC-to-DC conversion apparatus is operated, the DC input power would be firstly sampled and determined, and then the operations of the first and the second switch devices disposed therein would be controlled in response to the sampled-determined result, such that both boost circuits would be respectively operated in different input conditions, for example, the input is normally-connected or the input is reverse-connected. Accordingly, regardless of the input of normal connection or the input of reverse connection, the provided DC-to-DC conversion apparatus can perform the function of DC-to-DC conversion, thereby enabling the applied product to be normally operated even the input is reverse-connected.