Gate Drive Power Supply Coordination for Isolated DC-DC Converters
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing motor drive products face challenges with multiple DC-DC converters that lack data exchange, leading to ineffective coordination, late fault detection, and inadequate tunable voltage regulation due to reliance on multiple instances of PWM controller ICs.
Innovation Solution
A system utilizing a pulse width modulation controller and a programmable device to control multiple isolated power supplies, with the programmable device powered by the first output voltage, enabling coordinated control and feedback loops for precise voltage regulation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Power
If multiple instances of PWM controller ICs are used to create power supplies, then power driving capability is achieved, but coordination and sequencing between DC-DC converters become ineffective
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple independent PWM controller ICs into a unified control architecture where a single controller coordinates all DC-DC converters. This consolidation enables centralized control and sequencing while maintaining the power driving capability of multiple converters working together under coordinated management.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements a universal controller that performs multiple functions: it controls power sequencing, monitors fault conditions across all converters, and regulates voltage output. This multi-functional approach replaces the need for multiple specialized PWM controller ICs while improving coordination and reliability.
2Device complexity
If multiple instances of DC-DC converters work in isolation, then independence is maintained, but fault detection and shutdown become ineffective
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a feedback mechanism where the unified controller continuously monitors the status of all DC-DC converters. When a fault is detected in any converter, the controller receives feedback signals and initiates appropriate shutdown sequences, enabling effective fault detection and protection while maintaining converter independence through controlled isolation.
3Ease of operation
If multiple PWM controller ICs are used, then power supply control is achieved, but tunable voltage regulation is lacking
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic voltage regulation where the unified controller can adjust output voltages in real-time based on system requirements. The controller dynamically modifies duty cycles and switching frequencies of all DC-DC converters to achieve tunable voltage regulation, providing adaptability while maintaining ease of operation through centralized control.
Data Source
AI summary
A system is provided including a pulse width modulation controller configured to control a first output voltage of a first power supply associated with the system, wherein the first power supply is referenced to an input ground associated with the system. The system includes a programmable device configured to control at least a second output voltage of a second power supply associated with the system, wherein the second power supply is referenced to an output ground associated with the system. The programmable device is powered based on the first output voltage.