DC-DC Converter Feedback Circuit for Adaptive Energy Harvesting
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing energy harvesting DC-DC converters face challenges in efficiently adapting to environmental changes that affect voltage and power output, leading to inconsistent energy harvesting capabilities.
Innovation Solution
A circuit comprising a DC-DC converter connected to a non-ohmic semiconductor element, a monitoring module that adjusts parameters based on output current measurements, and a feedback loop to maximize power delivery using a Maximum Power Point Tracking (MPPT) module, which includes a non-ohmic semiconductor element like a diode or transistor to monitor and adjust the DC-DC converter's parameters.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a DC-DC converter is used to connect energy harvesting device to load, then voltage can be changed and power can be provided to load, but the circuit cannot efficiently adapt to environmental changes that affect voltage and power output
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a feedback mechanism where a monitoring module continuously measures the output current of the DC-DC converter and uses this information to dynamically adjust converter parameters. This closed-loop control enables the system to adapt to environmental changes in real-time, resolving the contradiction between adaptability and productivity by ensuring optimal energy harvesting under varying conditions
Solution Approach 2:
The patent makes the DC-DC converter parameters dynamic rather than fixed. The monitoring module adjusts converter parameters based on measured output current, allowing the system to dynamically respond to environmental changes. This dynamic adaptation resolves the contradiction by enabling the converter to maintain optimal performance across different operating conditions
2Loss of energy
If a monitoring module with non-ohmic semiconductor element is added to measure output current, then power consumption is reduced and energy efficiency is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the monitoring function with the existing DC-DC converter circuit by using a non-ohmic semiconductor element that serves dual purposes: it enables output current measurement while also providing protection against reverse current. This consolidation reduces the need for separate monitoring components, thereby limiting the increase in device complexity while achieving reduced power consumption
Solution Approach 2:
The non-ohmic semiconductor element is designed to perform multiple functions simultaneously: it acts as a current sensing element for monitoring module operation, provides reverse current protection, and enables parameter adjustment for optimal power extraction. This multi-functionality resolves the contradiction by achieving reduced power consumption without proportionally increasing device complexity
3Productivity
If DC-DC converter parameters are dynamically adjusted to maximize power delivery, then energy efficiency is enhanced, but control complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses feedback from the monitoring module to automatically adjust DC-DC converter parameters for maximum power delivery. The system measures output current and uses this information to dynamically optimize converter operation, resolving the contradiction between productivity and control complexity through intelligent automated control
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs self-adjustment of converter parameters based on feedback from the monitoring module. The non-ohmic semiconductor element enables the circuit to automatically optimize its own operation without requiring external control intervention, resolving the contradiction by reducing the need for complex external control while maintaining high power delivery efficiency
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
The solution enhances energy efficiency and power management by dynamically adjusting the DC-DC converter parameters to optimize power delivery, reducing power consumption and providing protection against reverse current.
Implementation Method 1
a monitoring module comprising a non-ohmic semiconductor element and arranged to derive information relating to an output current flowing from the DC-DC converter by measuring a current through said non-ohmic semiconductor element
Implementation Method 2
the non-ohmic semiconductor element comprises at least one diode. A diode can provide the required voltage drop but may also provide the secondary benefit of providing protection against reverse current
Implementation Method 3
the non-ohmic semiconductor element comprises at least one transistor, e.g. a field-effect transistor (FET) e.g. a p-channel metal-oxide-semiconductor field-effect transistor (pMOSFET). In a set of embodiments, the transistor is configured selectively to disconnect the load
Implementation Method 4
the second transistor may act as a replica transistor. It may be easier and more power efficient to measure the current through the second transistor in order to derive information regarding the DC-DC converter output current. The replica transistor may compensate for the variability of the resistance between the terminals of the first transistor due to changing conditions, e.g. voltage, temperature, and process variations
Data Source
AI summary
A circuit portion is provided which includes an energy harvesting device producing a DC output; a DC-DC converter having an input connected to the DC output of the energy harvesting device; an output for connection to a load; and a monitoring module including a non-ohmic semiconductor element. The monitoring module is arranged to derive information relating to an output current flowing from the DC-DC converter by measuring a current through the non-ohmic semiconductor element. The monitoring module is arranged to adjust one or more parameters of the DC-DC converter based on the information relating to said output current flowing from the DC-DC converter.