Forward Boost Power Converter Topology for Efficiency
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing frequency modulated power converters face challenges in maximizing power conversion efficiency, minimizing component count and cost, and ensuring monotonic power transfer while managing stress on components, particularly in resonant converter designs.
Innovation Solution
A switching mode power converter topology that utilizes a transformer with intrinsic magnetization and leakage inductances to transfer energy between terminal pairs through a combination of inductance and capacitance, allowing energy transfer during both conduction and non-conduction periods of the primary switch, thereby reducing component count and stress.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of energy
If traditional resonant converter designs are used, then power conversion efficiency can be improved, but component count and stress on components increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent converts the parasitic inductances (magnetization and leakage inductances) of the transformer, which are normally considered harmful or unwanted elements, into useful resonant elements. By designing the converter to operate with these intrinsic inductances forming part of the resonant circuit, the patent eliminates the need for separate resonant inductors and reduces component count while maintaining efficient power conversion.
Solution Approach 2:
The transformer in the patent serves multiple functions simultaneously: it provides galvanic isolation, voltage transformation, and acts as the resonant inductor for power transfer. The magnetization inductance and leakage inductance of the transformer are utilized as the resonant elements, making the transformer a multi-functional component that reduces overall device complexity.
2Adaptability or versatility
If frequency modulation is used to control output voltage, then converter design flexibility is improved, but achieving monotonic power transfer function becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent utilizes frequency modulation as a control parameter to regulate output voltage. By changing the switching frequency of the converter, the output voltage can be controlled while maintaining a monotonic relationship between frequency and power transfer. The resonant topology ensures that power transfer increases monotonically with frequency within the operating range.
3Loss of energy
If resonant elements are added to improve power transfer, then efficiency is improved, but stress on components and device complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent converts the parasitic inductances of the transformer into useful resonant elements, eliminating the need for additional resonant components that would increase stress on parts of the circuit. The intrinsic inductances of the transformer are utilized to create the resonant circuit, reducing overall component stress.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges the function of the transformer with the function of the resonant inductor. The magnetization inductance and leakage inductance of the transformer are combined to form the resonant circuit, eliminating the need for separate resonant inductor components and reducing overall component stress.
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 topology enhances efficiency, reduces component count and cost, and minimizes switching losses by leveraging parasitic inductances within the transformer, enabling energy transfer on both switching cycles and reducing stress on components compared to traditional designs.
Implementation Method 1
a first inductance coupled to a first switch in a first circuit path across said first terminal pair
Implementation Method 2
Resonant converters are converters that use inductive and capacitive (LC) reactive elements in resonance to transfer power from an input source to the output
Data Source
AI summary
Forward boost power converters, and related methods, are disclosed. In a switching mode power converter coupled between a first terminal pair and a second terminal pair, a first inductance is coupled to a first switch in a first circuit path across the first terminal pair. A capacitance is coupled to a second inductance in a second circuit path, and to the first inductance in a third circuit path. During their respective conduction periods, the first switch couples the first inductance across the first terminal pair, a second switch completes a circuit between the second terminal pair and one of: the second circuit path or the third circuit path, and a third switch completes the other of: the second circuit path and the third circuit path. Energy transfer involves both substantially linearly varying currents and substantially half sinusoidal current pulses.