Interleaved DC-DC Converter Topology With Phase-Shifted Transformers

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing DC-DC converters for electric or hybrid electric vehicles face inefficiencies in voltage conversion and are not cost-effective, particularly in fault-tolerant applications, due to limitations in phase differences and transformer configurations.

Innovation Solution

A DC-DC converter design incorporating multiple transformer components with series-configured primary windings and independently controlled secondary side switching networks, allowing for phase shifting to optimize voltage conversion efficiency and reduce costs.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If a single transformer configuration is used in existing DC-DC converters, then the device complexity is reduced, but the adaptability and fault tolerance are insufficient

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvefault toleranceVSAvoidtransformer configuration
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent divides the transformer into multiple independent winding sets (first plurality of primary windings, second plurality of primary windings, and corresponding secondary windings). Each winding set can operate independently or in combination, enabling fault tolerance where the converter can continue operating with reduced capacity if one winding fails. This segmentation directly resolves the contradiction by providing adaptability through multiple operational configurations while managing complexity through modular design.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The multiple primary windings are configured to perform multiple functions: they can operate individually for fault tolerance, combine in series for voltage multiplication, or be selectively activated based on load requirements. The secondary windings similarly provide multiple output configurations. This multi-functionality enables the single transformer to replace what would traditionally require multiple transformers or complex switching arrangements, improving adaptability while controlling overall device complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Use of energy by moving object

If phase differences are limited in existing DC-DC converters, then the control simplicity is maintained, but the voltage conversion efficiency is reduced

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvevoltage conversion efficiencyVSAvoidphase control
Core Design Contradiction:
Use of energy by moving objectVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements dynamic phase shift control where the phase difference between primary and secondary windings can be adjusted based on operating conditions. The controller varies the phase difference to optimize power transfer efficiency across different load conditions and voltage ratios. This dynamic adjustment resolves the contradiction by maximizing energy efficiency through adaptive phase control while the controller manages the complexity of coordinating multiple windings with different phase relationships.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The system changes the phase difference parameter as a control variable to optimize voltage conversion efficiency. By adjusting the phase shift between primary and secondary windings, the converter achieves maximum power transfer at different operating points. This parameter change approach enables efficient voltage conversion across varying conditions while the controller handles the complexity of implementing multi-phase coordination.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

3Productivity

If multiple secondary side switching networks are added for interleaving control, then the productivity and efficiency are improved, but the device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvevoltage conversion rateVSAvoidswitching network
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines multiple secondary side switching networks into a unified interleaved control architecture where the switching operations of different windings are coordinated to achieve current sharing and reduced ripple. The multiple switching networks operate in parallel with phase-shifted timing, effectively combining their power conversion capabilities to increase overall productivity. This merging approach improves voltage conversion rate while the coordinated control manages the complexity of multiple switching devices.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The interleaved control implements periodic switching actions with different phase shifts for each secondary switching network. By distributing the switching events across different time periods and phases, the system achieves continuous power transfer with reduced ripple and improved efficiency. This periodic action with phase distribution increases productivity by utilizing multiple switching networks simultaneously while the rhythmic coordination pattern manages the control complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #19Periodic action

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 proposed design enhances performance, reduces costs, and improves flexibility, making it suitable for fault-tolerant applications by optimizing phase differences and transformer configurations for efficient voltage conversion.

Implementation Method 1

The first transformer component includes a first plurality of primary windings and a first plurality of secondary windings. The first transformer component receives the primary side AC voltage and outputs a first secondary side AC voltage.

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElectromagnetic induction: Electromagnetic Induction

Data Source

PatentUS12149180B2DC-DC middle-point topology interleaving control
Publication Date: 2024.11.19 LEAR CORP
  • US12149180B2 patent drawing
  • US12149180B2 patent drawing
  • US12149180B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A DC-DC converter that converts an input DC voltage to an output DC voltage includes a first switching network, a first transformer component, a second transformer, a first secondary side rectifier circuit, and a second secondary side rectifier circuit. The first secondary side rectifier circuit receives the first secondary side AC voltage and outputs a first temporal portion of the output DC voltage during a first portion of a duty cycle. The second secondary side rectifier circuit receives the second secondary side AC voltage and outputs a second temporal portion of the output DC voltage during a second portion of the duty cycle.