Hybrid Power Converter Switching for Regulated Output Above 2VIN
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing hybrid 3-level buck-boost converters are limited in regulating output voltage to a level above 2VIN, as they cannot efficiently operate beyond this range due to their topology.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of a power converter with a switching node, power inductor, flying capacitor, and pump capacitor, along with a specific switch configuration that allows operation in forward hybrid boost mode, enabling voltage regulation beyond 2VIN by commutating switches between sequential phases.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a conventional hybrid 3-level buck-boost converter topology is used, then the converter can operate in buck and boost modes, but the output voltage cannot be regulated above 2VIN
Solution Approach 1:
The converter operation is segmented into distinct phases (first phase and second phase) with different switch configurations. During the first phase, switches are configured for one mode of operation, and during the second phase, switches are reconfigured for another mode. This phase-based segmentation enables the converter to achieve output voltages beyond 2VIN by sequentially executing different switching patterns that would be impossible in a single continuous configuration.
Solution Approach 2:
The switch network is designed to dynamically reconfigure its topology between phases. The converter transitions from a static topology to a dynamic one where switch states change based on the operating phase, allowing the circuit to adapt its effective topology to achieve different voltage conversion ratios including those exceeding 2VIN.
2Power
If the converter operates in boost mode with traditional topology, then voltage can be increased, but regulation beyond 2VIN is not achievable
Solution Approach 1:
The converter employs periodic switching action with distinct phases. During the first phase, energy is stored in the inductor and capacitors in a specific configuration. During the second phase, the stored energy is transferred to the output in a different configuration that enables voltage multiplication beyond 2VIN. This periodic reconfiguration allows the converter to achieve higher voltage regulation capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The flying capacitor and pump capacitor serve as intermediary energy storage elements that facilitate voltage multiplication. These capacitors are charged during one phase and discharged during another phase, acting as intermediaries that enable the output voltage to exceed 2VIN by temporarily storing and transferring energy in a staged manner rather than directly.
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
Enables the regulation of output voltage to a desired target voltage greater than 2VIN, expanding the operational range of the converter and allowing for more flexible power management in electronic devices.
Implementation Method 1
a pump capacitor having a first pump capacitor terminal and a second pump capacitor terminal, the second pump capacitor terminal coupled to ground
Implementation Method 2
a flying capacitor having a first capacitor terminal and a second capacitor terminal
Implementation Method 3
a power inductor coupled between the switching node and the output
Data Source
AI summary
A power converter for converting an input voltage at an input of the power converter into an output voltage at an output of the power converter may include a switching node, a power inductor coupled between the switching node and the output, a flying capacitor having a first flying capacitor terminal and a second flying capacitor terminal, a pump capacitor having a first pump capacitor terminal and a second pump capacitor terminal, the second pump capacitor terminal coupled to ground, a first switch coupled between the input and the first flying capacitor terminal, a second switch coupled between the first flying capacitor terminal and the switching node, a third switch coupled between the second flying capacitor terminal and the switching node, a fourth switch coupled between the second flying capacitor terminal and a ground voltage, a fifth switch coupled between the second flying capacitor terminal and the first pump capacitor terminal, and a sixth switch coupled between the output and the first pump capacitor terminal.