DC-DC Converter Ring Topology for Electric Drive Energy Supply
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing electric vehicle energy supply systems lack the ability to efficiently adjust the output voltage of energy sources to meet the needs of the electric drive, leading to limited power transmission and increased conversion losses due to direct connections and series configurations of DC-DC converters.
Innovation Solution
A system utilizing three DC-DC converters connected in a ring configuration, allowing each energy source to be directly coupled to the electric drive via one converter, enabling adjustable output voltage and minimizing conversion losses by allowing energy transfer through a single converter, with optional parallel connections for increased power transmission and redundant functionality.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If DC-DC converters are connected in series with individual energy sources to set output voltage, then the output voltage can be adjusted to a predetermined level, but the device complexity increases and conversion losses increase due to multiple converters
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple DC-DC converter functions into a single converter that can operate in multiple modes. Instead of having separate converters for each energy source, one converter is used to couple either the first or second energy source to the electric drive, and another to couple the energy sources to each other, reducing overall system complexity while maintaining voltage adjustment capability
Solution Approach 2:
The DC-DC converters are designed with multi-functionality, where the same converter can couple different energy sources to the electric drive or couple energy sources to each other depending on operating conditions. This universal design allows one converter to replace multiple specialized converters, reducing device complexity
2Adaptability or versatility
If energy is transferred through multiple DC-DC converters, then flexibility in energy routing is improved, but conversion losses increase due to multiple conversion stages
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically selects the optimal energy transfer path based on operating conditions. The control unit determines whether to transfer energy directly between energy sources or through the electric drive, minimizing the number of conversion stages. This dynamic routing ensures that energy transfers occur through the most efficient path, reducing conversion losses while maintaining routing flexibility
Solution Approach 2:
The electric drive serves as an intermediary for energy transfer between energy sources when needed. Instead of requiring dedicated direct coupling between all energy sources, the system can route energy through the electric drive, which acts as a mediator. This approach maintains routing flexibility while limiting the number of conversion stages to two maximum, preventing excessive conversion losses
3Loss of energy
If a single DC-DC converter is used to couple energy sources to the electric drive, then conversion losses are minimized, but the power transmission capacity is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The power transmission function is segmented across multiple converters that can operate in parallel or sequentially. When high power transmission is required, multiple converters can be activated simultaneously to share the load, effectively increasing the total power capacity while maintaining the efficiency benefit of direct coupling. Each converter handles a portion of the total power, preventing any single converter from being overloaded
4Device complexity
If energy sources are directly connected to the electric drive without voltage conversion, then device complexity is reduced, but the ability to adjust output voltage to meet drive needs is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically adjusts the configuration of DC-DC converters based on real-time operating conditions and voltage requirements. When voltage adjustment is needed, converters are activated to provide the necessary transformation. When direct connection suffices, converters can be bypassed or deactivated. This dynamic configuration maintains adaptability while minimizing device complexity in any given operating state
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 allows for robust, efficient, and adjustable energy supply to electric vehicles, minimizing conversion losses and enabling higher power transmission while ensuring reliable operation across varying conditions, including freeze starts and optimal use of energy storage devices.
Implementation Method 1
three DC converters for coupling at least two sources of electrical energy to the electrical drive
Data Source
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AI summary
The present invention relates to a device (100) and a method for supplying an electric drive (101) with electric current. For this purpose, three DC/DC converters (102, 103, 104) are provided for coupling at least two connectable electric energy sources (105, 106) to the electric drive (101). The DC/DC converters (102, 103, 104) can be coupled in such a way that direct coupling of each individual one of the at least two electric energy sources (105, 106) to the electric drive (101) is formed via an individual one of the three DC/DC converters (102, 103, 104).