Modular Half-Bridge Buck-Boost Converter With Dynamic PWM Tuning
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional power conversion systems lack efficiency and flexibility in converting AC or DC power to different voltage levels while maintaining high power handling and compact design, especially in applications requiring bi-directional energy flow and dynamic frequency adjustment based on load conditions.
Innovation Solution
A modular high power bi-directional half bridge buck/boost converter assembly incorporating half bridge modules, inductors, and a controller for pulse width modulation (PWM) switching control, allowing dynamic frequency tuning based on load conditions, and featuring high frequency switching with MOSFETs and capacitive filtering for efficient energy conversion.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of energy
If conventional power conversion systems are used, then power conversion is achieved, but efficiency is low and heat loss is high
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic frequency tuning where the switching frequency is adjusted based on load conditions. The controller dynamically changes the switching frequency of MOSFETs to optimize efficiency across different operating points, preventing excessive heat loss at partial loads while maintaining power conversion capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the switching frequency parameter dynamically based on load conditions. By varying this critical parameter, the converter achieves optimal efficiency across different power levels, directly addressing the heat loss problem in conventional fixed-frequency systems.
2Power
If high power handling is required, then power capacity increases, but system size and component requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a modular half-bridge converter architecture where the power conversion function is divided into independent half-bridge modules. Each module handles a portion of the total power, allowing scalable power handling without proportionally increasing overall system complexity or size. The modules can be configured in series or parallel to achieve desired power levels.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses high-frequency switching to move the operation to a higher frequency dimension, enabling compact magnetic component design. By operating at elevated switching frequencies, the patent achieves high power handling in a reduced volume through improved power density.
3Adaptability or versatility
If fixed switching frequency is used, then control is simple, but adaptability to different load conditions is poor
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a feedback control mechanism where the controller monitors load conditions and adjusts the switching frequency accordingly. This closed-loop approach provides adaptability to varying load conditions while maintaining manageable control complexity through automated frequency tuning based on sensed parameters.
Solution Approach 2:
The system transitions from fixed-frequency operation to dynamic frequency adjustment. The controller adaptively changes switching frequency based on real-time load conditions, enhancing versatility without requiring complex manual intervention or reconfiguration.
4Adaptability or versatility
If modular design is implemented, then flexibility and scalability improve, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the power converter into standardized half-bridge modules that can be independently designed, tested, and assembled. This segmentation provides flexibility and scalability while managing complexity through modular standardization, where each module follows the same design template.
Solution Approach 2:
The half-bridge modules are designed as universal building blocks that can function in different configurations (series or parallel) to meet various power requirements. This multi-functionality approach enhances design flexibility while reducing integration complexity through standardized interfaces and procedures.
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 solution achieves high efficiency (up to 98%) and compact design with scalable power capabilities, supporting a wide range of voltages and currents, and enabling bi-directional energy conversion in electric vehicle applications with reduced heat loss and component requirements.
Implementation Method 1
converting power from one form of current (either AC or DC) to a differing level of voltage, either lower (buck) or higher (boost), to output a wave signal based on pulse width modulation (PWM) switching control
Implementation Method 2
at least one inductor which is connected to the at least one half bridge module and a power supply
Implementation Method 3
featuring high frequency switching with MOSFETs and capacitive filtering for efficient energy conversion
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention generally relates to a modular high power bi-directional half bridge buck/boost converter assembly and, in particular, to a system for converting power from one form of current (either AC or DC) to a differing level of voltage, either lower (buck) or higher (boost), to output a wave signal based on pulse wave modulation (PWM) switching control by means of an external digital controller and methods of operation. In particular, an inverter-converter system includes at least one half bridge module including a plurality of circuit components, at least one inductor which is connected to the at least one half bridge module and a power supply, and a controller which is configured to receive and send instructions to the at least one half bridge module for converting an input voltage to an output voltage and dynamically tune switching frequencies based on a load of the inverter-converter system.