Flyback PFC Converter Variable On-Time Control

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional flyback power factor correction (PFC) topologies face limitations in achieving unity power factor and high total harmonic distortion (THD) due to the constant on-time switching, which results in distorted input current and voltage waveforms, affecting the efficiency and compliance with industry standards.

Innovation Solution

The implementation of a phase-lock-loop (PLL) module synchronized with the rectified line voltage signal and an output regulator module that dynamically adjusts the on-time of the switch within the flyback converter, using a microcontroller to correct the wave shape and improve power factor and THD by varying the on-time based on phase variations.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Device complexity

If constant on-time switching is used in flyback PFC topology, then device complexity is reduced, but power factor and total harmonic distortion performance deteriorate

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveswitching control complexityVSAvoidpower factor
Core Design Contradiction:
Device complexityVSUse of energy by moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies dynamics by transitioning from constant on-time switching to variable on-time switching controlled by a PLL module. The on-time of the switch is dynamically adjusted based on the phase-locked loop's synchronization with the rectified line voltage signal, enabling the system to adapt switching parameters in real-time to maintain sinusoidal current waveforms and improve power factor.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The patent implements feedback through the phase-lock-loop (PLL) module that continuously monitors the rectified line voltage signal and adjusts the switch on-time accordingly. The PLL detects phase variations and provides feedback control to shape the input current waveform, ensuring it remains in phase with the voltage signal and thereby improving power factor and reducing harmonic distortion.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

2Ease of operation

If constant on-time switching is used in flyback PFC topology, then ease of operation is improved, but total harmonic distortion increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveswitching control simplicityVSAvoidtotal harmonic distortion
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSObject-generated harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements feedback through the phase-lock-loop (PLL) module that continuously monitors the rectified line voltage signal and adjusts the switch on-time accordingly. The PLL detects phase variations and provides feedback control to shape the input current waveform, ensuring it remains in phase with the voltage signal and thereby improving power factor and reducing harmonic distortion.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

Solution Approach 2:

The patent replaces simple constant on-time control with an electronic control system based on phase-lock-loop technology. This substitution enables automatic waveform shaping and harmonic reduction through electronic feedback mechanisms, replacing what would otherwise require complex mechanical or manual adjustment systems.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

3Use of energy by moving object

If variable on-time switching control is implemented with PLL module, then power factor is improved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvepower factorVSAvoidcontrol circuit complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Use of energy by moving objectVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies universality by integrating multiple functions into the PLL module and microcontroller system. The same control circuitry that performs phase-locking also generates the variable on-time control signals for the switch, regulates output voltage, and shapes the input current waveform. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate dedicated circuits for each function, thereby managing complexity while achieving improved power factor.

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

4Object-generated harmful factors

If variable on-time switching control is implemented with PLL module, then total harmonic distortion is reduced, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvetotal harmonic distortionVSAvoidcontrol circuit complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Object-generated harmful factorsVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements feedback through the phase-lock-loop (PLL) module that continuously monitors the rectified line voltage signal and adjusts the switch on-time accordingly. The PLL detects phase variations and provides feedback control to shape the input current waveform, ensuring it remains in phase with the voltage signal and thereby improving power factor and reducing harmonic distortion.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

Solution Approach 2:

The patent applies universality by integrating multiple functions into the PLL module and microcontroller system. The same control circuitry that performs phase-locking also generates the variable on-time control signals for the switch, regulates output voltage, and shapes the input current waveform. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate dedicated circuits for each function, thereby managing complexity while achieving improved power factor.

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

Data Source

PatentUS9307586B2Flyback AC-to-DC converter
Publication Date: 2016.04.05 ABL IP HLDG LLC
  • US9307586B2 patent drawing
  • US9307586B2 patent drawing
  • US9307586B2 patent drawing

AI summary

Techniques and corresponding circuitry and drivers are disclosed for improving power factor (PF) and total harmonic distortion (THD) of a flyback power factor correction (PFC) topology operating in transition-mode. In one or more embodiments, the PF and THD are improved by correcting the on-time of the switching element of the flyback PFC topology to actively shape the wave of the PFC input current. In some embodiments, the on-time is corrected using a phase-lock-loop module that synchronizes with the rectified input line voltage signal and a output regulator module that corrects the switch on-time. The control may be implemented using a digital or an analog controller.