Flyback Converter Control for Variable Output Voltage

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional flyback converter control schemes are inadequate for applications with variable output voltages, as they require constant turn-on time and dead time for the auxiliary switch, leading to increased complexity and obstacles in controlling variable dead time, especially at higher switch frequencies.

Innovation Solution

A method and apparatus for controlling a flyback converter that dynamically adjusts the turn-on time of the auxiliary switch and dead time based on input and output voltage signals, ensuring zero-voltage-switching (ZVS) of the main switch by sampling these signals and using proportional relationships to determine the turn-on time and dead time.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If constant turn-on time and dead time are used for the auxiliary switch, then the control scheme is simple, but it is not suitable for applications with variable output voltages

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveadaptability to variable output voltagesVSAvoidcontroller complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements dynamic adjustment of the auxiliary switch turn-on time and dead time based on detected output voltage levels. The controller automatically varies these timing parameters to match different output voltage requirements, enabling the flyback converter to adapt to variable voltage applications while maintaining ZVS operation and efficiency

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

2Loss of energy

If variable dead time is implemented to optimize efficiency, then efficiency is improved, but transmission delay and parameter tolerance become huge obstacles

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveturn-on lossVSAvoidcontrol reliability
Core Design Contradiction:
Loss of energyVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent employs a feedback mechanism where the controller detects the actual output voltage and uses this information to dynamically adjust the auxiliary switch timing parameters. This closed-loop control ensures that the variable dead time and turn-on time are precisely optimized for each operating condition while maintaining control reliability by continuously monitoring and adjusting based on actual system state

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

Data Source

PatentUS10797603B2Method and apparatus for controlling a flyback converter
Publication Date: 2020.10.06 DELTA ELECTRONICS (SHANGHAI) CO LTD
  • US10797603B2 patent drawing
  • US10797603B2 patent drawing
  • US10797603B2 patent drawing

AI summary

The present invention discloses a method and an apparatus for controlling a flyback converter, the flyback converter including a main switch, a transformer and an auxiliary switch. The method includes: obtaining a first voltage signal and a second voltage signal, the first voltage signal representing an input voltage of the flyback converter, and the second voltage signal representing an output voltage of the flyback converter; controlling turn-on of the auxiliary switch, wherein the turn-on time period of the auxiliary switch is determined according to the first voltage signal and the second voltage signal; and turning on the main switch at ZVS condition, wherein the main switch is turned on at the time delayed for a duration of a dead time after turning off of the auxiliary switch.