Flyback Controller With Parallel Modules for Bidirectional Battery Testing

Resolve Bottlenecks,
Find Innovative Solutions
Generate Solutions

Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional bidirectional DC-DC converters for testing high-power-density secondary batteries are complex and costly due to numerous components, making them difficult to assemble and produce effectively.

Innovation Solution

A flyback controller with parallelly-connected power modules and reduced power devices, utilizing two bidirectional DC-DC converters connected in parallel, along with a digital-signal processor for bidirectional energy flow and transformation, simplifying the structure and increasing power output.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If conventional phase-shifted full-bridge topology is used, then bidirectional energy flow capability is achieved, but device complexity increases due to numerous power devices

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvebidirectional energy flow capabilityVSAvoidnumber of power devices
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The conventional full-bridge topology is segmented into two separate bidirectional DC-DC converter modules. Each module contains fewer power devices (two FETs and two diodes per module), making the overall system less complex while maintaining bidirectional capability through parallel operation of the modules

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

Each DC-DC converter module is designed to be universally functional in both forward and reverse directions. The same circuit topology and control strategy enable bidirectional energy flow, eliminating the need for separate circuits for each direction and reducing overall device complexity

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Adaptability or versatility

If conventional bidirectional DC-DC converter is used, then large range of current modulation is provided, but manufacturing cost increases due to expansive production requirements

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecurrent modulation rangeVSAvoidmanufacturing cost
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The system is divided into two identical modular converter units that can be manufactured separately using standardized processes. This segmentation enables mass production of individual modules, reducing per-unit manufacturing costs while maintaining the required current modulation range through parallel operation

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The current modulation range is achieved by varying the duty cycle and switching frequencies of the parallel-connected modules rather than using numerous individual power devices. This parameter-based control approach reduces component count and manufacturing complexity

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

3Adaptability or versatility

If conventional bidirectional DC-DC converter is used, then bidirectional energy flow is supported, but assembly difficulty increases due to numerous components

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvebidirectional energy flow supportVSAvoidassembly difficulty
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The converter is segmented into two independent modules, each with its own complete set of power devices and control circuitry. This modular design simplifies assembly by allowing each module to be assembled and tested separately before final integration, reducing overall assembly complexity

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

Two complete bidirectional converter modules are merged in parallel configuration. Each module is self-contained and functionally complete, allowing for simplified assembly procedures while achieving the combined power output and bidirectional capability required for battery testing applications

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

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 enables efficient bidirectional energy flow and transformation, reducing assembly and production costs while providing sufficient power output for testing secondary batteries, with improved current control and reduced voltage surges, demonstrating better performance than conventional phase-shifted full-bridge topology converters.

Implementation Method 1

The first inductor is connected in parallel with a primary side. The first inductor is further connected in series with the first capacitor. Opposite to the primary side there is a secondary side. The secondary side is connected in parallel with a second inductor.

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElectromagnetic induction: Electromagnetic Induction

Data Source

PatentUS20170012536A1Flyback controller featuring bidirectional power control and parallelly-connected power modules
Publication Date: 2017.01.12 CHYNG HONG ELECTRONIC CO LTD
  • US20170012536A1 patent drawing
  • US20170012536A1 patent drawing
  • US20170012536A1 patent drawing

AI summary

A flyback controller featuring bidirectional power control and parallelly-connected power modules is based on flyback DC-DC converters for allowing bidirectional energy flow and transformation. The flyback controller includes two bidirectional DC-DC converters that are connected in parallel. The bidirectional DC-DC converters are electrically connected with a digital-signal processor. The digital-signal processor controls the bidirectional DC-DC converters and current thereof, so that the current flows evenly across the bidirectional DC-DC converters. Thereby, the flyback controller has advantages about simplified components and increased power output, and is suitable for testing secondary batteries.