Flyback Converter ZVS Control via Ringing Signal Waveform

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Solution Overview

Problem

Prior art flyback power converters face challenges in precise synchronization of synchronous rectifier switches with primary side switches and low power conversion efficiency due to lack of zero voltage switching (ZVS) on the primary side.

Innovation Solution

A ZVS control circuit is introduced, utilizing a ringing signal to synchronize the primary side switch and the synchronous rectifier switch, with the primary side controller determining the switching signal timing based on a first waveform characteristic and the secondary side controller determining the ZVS pulse timing based on a second waveform characteristic, ensuring the primary side switch operates at zero voltage switching.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Loss of energy

If synchronous rectification is implemented on the secondary side, then rectification efficiency is improved, but precise synchronization with the primary side switch cannot be achieved

Engineering Contradiction:
Improverectification efficiencyVSAvoidsynchronization precision
Core Design Contradiction:
Loss of energyVSMeasurement precision

Solution Approach 1:

The patent introduces a ringing signal as an intermediary to achieve precise synchronization. The ringing signal is generated by the resonance between the transformer leakage inductance and the parasitic capacitance of the switches, and its waveform characteristics (rising edge or falling edge) are used as a reference to trigger both the primary side switch and the secondary side synchronous rectifier switch, ensuring precise timing coordination

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent employs feedback by detecting the waveform characteristics of the ringing signal and using this information to adjust the triggering timing of the switches. The controller monitors the ringing signal and dynamically adjusts the gate drive signals to maintain precise synchronization between primary and secondary side switches based on the actual resonant state

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

2Loss of energy

If conventional switching control is used, then circuit simplicity is maintained, but power conversion efficiency is reduced due to lack of zero voltage switching

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvepower conversion efficiencyVSAvoidcontrol circuit complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Loss of energyVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies preliminary action by using the ringing signal to pre-charge or pre-discharge the parasitic capacitance of the primary side switch before the actual switching event. The controller detects the ringing signal waveform and triggers the switch at the optimal moment (rising or falling edge) to achieve zero voltage switching, thereby reducing switching losses before the main power transfer occurs

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The patent changes the switching timing parameter based on the ringing signal characteristics. Instead of using fixed duty cycle control, the controller adjusts the switch triggering instant according to the detected waveform features of the ringing signal, transforming the switching mode from conventional hard switching to zero voltage switching by dynamically changing the timing parameter

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

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

This approach enhances power conversion efficiency by achieving precise synchronization and zero voltage switching, improving the overall performance of the flyback power converter.

Implementation Method 1

a power transformer coupled between the input voltage and the output voltage

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElectromagnetic induction: Electromagnetic Induction

Implementation Method 2

the ringing signal is related to a ringing current of the power transformer

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectResonance: Resonance

Data Source

PatentUS11201554B2Flyback power converter and ZVS control circuit and control method thereof
Publication Date: 2021.12.14 RICHTEK TECH
  • US11201554B2 patent drawing
  • US11201554B2 patent drawing
  • US11201554B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A ZVS (zero voltage switching) control circuit for controlling a flyback power converter includes: a primary side controller circuit, for generating a switching signal to control a primary side switch; and a secondary side controller circuit, for generating a synchronous rectifier (SR) control signal to control a synchronous rectifier switch. The SR control signal includes an SR-control pulse and a ZVS pulse. The primary side controller circuit determines a trigger timing point of the switching signal according to a first waveform characteristic of a ringing signal, to control the primary side switch to be ON. The secondary side controller circuit determines a trigger timing point of the ZVS pulse according to a second waveform characteristic of the ringing signal, to control the synchronous rectifier switch to be ON for a predetermined ZVS time period, thereby achieving zero voltage switching of the primary side switch.