Discrete Frequency Voltage Converter Harmonic Control

Resolve Bottlenecks,
Find Innovative Solutions
Generate Solutions

Solution Overview

Problem

Voltage-converter arrangements generate harmonic waves across multiple frequency ranges, which are not effectively controlled, leading to inefficiencies and electromagnetic compatibility issues.

Innovation Solution

A voltage-converter arrangement that switches its operation frequency between discrete, predetermined values, allowing for efficient energy conversion by selecting the appropriate frequency based on load conditions, thereby minimizing harmonic waves to specific frequencies.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Productivity

If the voltage converter operates at a continuously variable frequency, then the voltage conversion efficiency is improved, but harmonic waves occur in multiple frequency ranges causing electromagnetic compatibility issues

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvevoltage conversion efficiencyVSAvoidharmonic waves in multiple frequency ranges
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSObject-generated harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The patent changes the frequency parameter from continuous to discrete values. The control device switches the operating frequency between N predetermined discrete frequency values instead of allowing continuous variation, which restricts harmonic waves to specific frequencies while maintaining efficient operation across different load conditions

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

Solution Approach 2:

The frequency spectrum is segmented into N discrete frequency values. Instead of operating across a continuous frequency range, the converter is divided into specific operating points, with each frequency value corresponding to particular load conditions, thereby organizing harmonic emissions into predetermined frequency slots

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

2Object-generated harmful factors

If the voltage converter operates at a constant frequency, then electromagnetic compatibility is improved, but the voltage conversion efficiency decreases under varying load conditions

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveharmonic wave controlVSAvoidvoltage conversion efficiency
Core Design Contradiction:
Object-generated harmful factorsVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent introduces dynamic frequency switching between N discrete values based on load conditions. The control device monitors the load and dynamically selects the appropriate frequency from the predetermined set, combining the benefits of discrete frequency operation with adaptive response to varying operational requirements

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The converter operates in periodic switching cycles between different discrete frequency values. The control device periodically evaluates load conditions and switches frequencies accordingly, creating a rhythmic pattern of operation that maintains efficiency while controlling harmonic emissions

Inventive Principle:
Principle #19Periodic action

Data Source

PatentUS8937466B2Voltage-converter arrangement and method for voltage conversion
Publication Date: 2015.01.20 AUSTRIAMICROSYSTEMS AG
  • US8937466B2 patent drawing
  • US8937466B2 patent drawing
  • US8937466B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A voltage-converter arrangement comprises an arrangement input (11) for the supply of an input voltage (VIN), an arrangement output (12) for the provision of an output voltage (VOUT), a voltage converter (13) that is coupled on the input side to the arrangement input (11) and on the output side to the arrangement output (12), and a control device (20) with a control output (21). The control output (21) is coupled to the voltage converter (13). A control signal (SW) can be picked up at the control output (21). The control device (20) is designed to switch the frequency (f) of the control signal (SW) between values from a number N of predetermined, discrete frequency values. The voltage converter (13) is designed to convert the input voltage (VIN) into the output voltage (VOUT) as a function of the control signal (SW).