Flyback Converter Switching Loss Reduction via Dynamic Voltage Control

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Solution Overview

Problem

Switching loss in switching power supplies, such as flyback converters, hinders system efficiency improvements.

Innovation Solution

A flyback converter design incorporating a transformer, two switches, and control circuits that adjust voltage by managing current flow between the switches, with staggered on-times for the switches to reduce switching loss and enhance efficiency.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Use of energy by moving object

If a switching power supply is used to improve power conversion efficiency, then power conversion efficiency is improved, but switching loss increases and hinders further efficiency improvement

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvepower conversion efficiencyVSAvoidswitching loss
Core Design Contradiction:
Use of energy by moving objectVSLoss of energy

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements dynamic voltage adjustment on the input terminal by controlling current flow through the second switch and second side of the transformer. This dynamic control allows the system to optimize switching conditions in real-time, reducing switching loss while maintaining high power conversion efficiency. The voltage on the input terminal is adjusted by changing the flow of current between the second switch and the second side, creating optimal switching conditions that resolve the contradiction between efficiency and switching loss.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The patent changes the voltage parameter on the input terminal through controlled current flow adjustments. By modifying the voltage condition on the input terminal during switching operations, the system optimizes the switching characteristics of the first switch, thereby reducing switching loss while maintaining high power conversion efficiency. This parameter change approach directly addresses the technical contradiction by allowing flexible optimization of switching conditions.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

2Loss of energy

If voltage adjustment is implemented by changing current flow between the second switch and second side, then switching loss is reduced, but control circuit complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveswitching lossVSAvoidcontrol circuit complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Loss of energyVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The second side of the transformer serves multiple functions: it is involved in power transformation and simultaneously acts as a control element for adjusting voltage on the input terminal through controlled current flow. This multi-functionality reduces the need for additional dedicated control components, thereby managing control circuit complexity while achieving switching loss reduction.

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

Solution Approach 2:

The system uses its own internal components (second switch and second side of transformer) to perform the voltage adjustment function needed for reducing switching loss. Rather than requiring external or additional complex control circuitry, the existing transformer second side is utilized to provide the necessary voltage control, thereby minimizing added complexity while achieving the desired loss reduction.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

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 effectively reduces switching loss and improves efficiency by optimizing the operation of the flyback converter through controlled voltage adjustment and current flow management.

Implementation Method 1

The transformer includes a first side and a second side

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElectromagnetic induction: Electromagnetic Induction

Implementation Method 2

The first switch is coupled to the first side at an input terminal. The second switch is coupled to the second side and an output terminal

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectSwitching control:

Implementation Method 3

the control circuit is arranged to adjust a voltage on the input terminal by changing a flow of a current between the second switch and the second side

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectControlled current flow:

Data Source

PatentUS11431252B2Flyback converter and control method thereof
Publication Date: 2022.08.30 ALPHA & OMEGA SEMICON INT LP
  • US11431252B2 patent drawing
  • US11431252B2 patent drawing
  • US11431252B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A flyback converter, including: a transformer, a first switch, a second switch, and a control circuit. The transformer includes a first side and a second side. The first switch is coupled to the first side at an input terminal. The second switch is coupled to the second side and an output terminal. The control circuit is coupled between the output terminal and the second switch, wherein the control circuit is arranged to adjust a voltage on the input terminal by changing a flow of a current between the second switch and the second side.