Symmetrical Hybrid DC-DC Converter With Shared Inductor Paths
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing power conversion systems, such as buck converters and charge-pump converters, suffer from inefficiencies and are unsuitable for high current demands, leading to excessive heat generation and limited charging speed in modern power-hungry systems.
Innovation Solution
A hybrid DC-DC converter design utilizing multiple low-voltage FETs and multiple current paths through an inductor, with a specific switching sequence to reduce power loss and increase efficiency, allowing for higher input voltages and currents.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Power
If buck converters are used for power conversion, then high current output can be achieved, but power conversion efficiency deteriorates (no greater than 85%)
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the single high-current path into multiple parallel low-voltage FET channels. Each channel operates at lower current levels, reducing resistive losses and improving overall power conversion efficiency while maintaining the ability to deliver high total output current through the parallel configuration.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces flying capacitors as intermediary energy storage elements between the input and output stages. These capacitors enable voltage transformation and current redistribution, allowing efficient power conversion by mediating the energy transfer between different voltage levels and reducing direct conduction losses.
2Loss of energy
If multiple channels are used to improve efficiency, then power conversion efficiency is improved, but device complexity increases (each channel requires an inductor)
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple inductor functions into a single shared inductor that serves all parallel FET channels. The inductor is positioned in the common path where it handles the aggregate current from all channels, eliminating the need for separate inductors in each channel while maintaining efficient power conversion across all channels.
Solution Approach 2:
The single inductor performs multiple functions: it serves as the energy storage element for all channels simultaneously, acts as a common current path for aggregate output, and enables voltage transformation for the entire parallel structure. This universal component replaces what would traditionally require multiple separate inductors.
3Productivity
If high input voltage is used for fast charging, then charging speed is improved, but heat generation increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the high-voltage input into multiple lower-voltage paths through parallel FET channels. Each channel processes a portion of the total power at reduced voltage and current levels, distributing the heat generation across multiple components and thermal paths, thereby reducing peak temperatures while maintaining fast charging capability.
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 hybrid DC-DC converter achieves improved efficiency by reducing power loss and heat generation, enabling faster charging and cooler operation for devices with higher power demands.
Implementation Method 1
an inductor connected between the switching node and the output node
Implementation Method 2
seven switching transistors and two flying capacitors
Data Source
AI summary
Hybrid DC-DC converters are described. One aspect is an electrical circuit configured to perform a DC-DC voltage conversion between an input voltage Vin and an output voltage Vout. The electrical circuit may include a first electrical network that includes seven switching transistors and two flying capacitors. The electrical circuit may further include a second electrical network that includes seven switching transistors and two flying capacitors. In an aspect, the first electrical network and the second electrical network are interconnected at least at each of an input node associated with the input voltage, an output node associated with the output voltage, and a switching node. The electrical circuit may also include an inductor connected between the switching node and the output node. In an aspect, the DC-DC voltage conversion involves a repeated cycle of four distinct switching system states.