Flying Capacitor Converter Topology for Scalable DC Voltage Ratios
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional power converters in data centers face inefficiencies in power conversion and density, particularly when dealing with higher DC voltages, and there is a need for more efficient energy use and reduced environmental impact.
Innovation Solution
A hybrid switched capacitor converter with a flying capacitor configuration, utilizing multiple autotransformers and switch circuitry to efficiently convert input voltage to output voltage, achieving high power density and efficiency through resonant and soft-switching operations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If conventional transformer-based solutions are used to increase power conversion ratio, then adaptability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The converter is divided into multiple switched capacitor cells (first cell, second cell, third cell) that can be independently configured. Each cell contains capacitors and switches arranged in specific patterns, allowing modular assembly to achieve different conversion ratios without requiring complex transformer designs.
Solution Approach 2:
The converter employs dynamic switching of capacitors between series and parallel configurations through control circuitry. The switching pattern changes based on the desired conversion ratio, enabling adaptive power conversion without physical reconfiguration of the circuit topology.
2Loss of energy
If higher DC voltages are used to reduce distribution losses, then energy efficiency is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The converter changes the voltage parameter dynamically by switching capacitor configurations. By connecting capacitors in series, the output voltage increases to reduce distribution losses; by connecting in parallel, the voltage is reduced for safety and compatibility, all without changing the physical hardware.
Solution Approach 2:
The same switched capacitor circuit serves multiple functions: voltage conversion, voltage regulation, and isolation. The circuit can operate in different modes (buck, boost, buck-boost) depending on the switching pattern, eliminating the need for separate circuits for each function.
3Power
If conventional switched capacitor converters are used for down-conversion, then power density is improved, but adaptability worsens
Solution Approach 1:
The converter uses segmented capacitor cells that can be independently activated. By enabling or disabling specific cells (first cell, second cell, third cell), the converter achieves different conversion ratios while maintaining high power density in each active segment.
Solution Approach 2:
The converter dynamically reconfigures the capacitor network to achieve both down-conversion and up-conversion. The switching pattern adapts to the desired conversion direction and ratio, allowing the same hardware to perform multiple conversion functions efficiently.
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 converter achieves high power density and efficiency by optimizing current flow and reducing magnetic volume, with scalable conversion ratios and lower RMS stress on switches, enhancing energy utilization and reducing environmental footprint.
Implementation Method 1
first windings magnetically coupled to each other; second windings magnetically coupled to each other
Implementation Method 2
resonant operation and soft switching operation; resonant tank; magnetizing current can be used to achieve soft-switching (ZVS)
Data Source
AI summary
An apparatus such as a power converter includes: a first circuit path including first windings coupled in series, each of the first windings magnetically coupled to each other; a second circuit path including second windings coupled in series, each of the second windings magnetically coupled to each other; and switch circuitry operative to selectively switch between electrically connecting a flying capacitor in series with the first circuit path and electrically connecting the flying capacitor in series with the second circuit path. A controller controls the switch circuitry in the power converter to convert an input voltage into an output voltage.