Interleaved PFC Converter Control With Coupled Inductors
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional interleaved PFC converters face efficiency losses due to increased operating frequency with varying input voltage and load, leading to higher switching and core losses.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of a converter circuit with coupled inductors and adaptive switch operation modes based on input voltage and load, allowing for increased inductance values and reduced operating frequencies, thereby improving efficiency.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Power
If the operating frequency is increased to handle higher input voltage or lower load conditions, then the power conversion capability is improved, but the switching loss and core loss increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by making the inductance value adjustable rather than fixed. The inductor includes multiple windings that can be selectively connected to provide different inductance values (first inductance value at high input voltage/low load, second inductance value at low input voltage/high load), allowing the system to adapt its parameters dynamically to operating conditions and minimize losses.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the inductance parameter based on operating conditions. By switching between different inductance values according to input voltage and load levels, the system optimizes the balance between power conversion capability and loss minimization, specifically reducing switching loss and core loss at extreme operating points.
2Device complexity
If a fixed inductance value is used in the interleaved PFC converter, then the device complexity is reduced, but the efficiency deteriorates under varying input voltage and load conditions
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a dynamic inductor structure where the inductance value can be changed by selectively connecting different windings. This dynamic adjustment capability allows the system to maintain high efficiency across varying operating conditions without requiring completely separate inductors for each condition, thus balancing complexity and performance.
Solution Approach 2:
The inductor is designed with multiple windings that serve multiple functions - the same inductor structure provides different inductance values for different operating conditions. This multi-functionality allows a single component to replace what would otherwise require multiple separate components, managing complexity while improving efficiency.
3Device complexity
If single-channel operation is used for PFC converter, then the device complexity is minimized, but the heat dissipation and efficiency under high load conditions become problematic
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the single PFC converter into two interleaved phases, each with its own switching element and inductor windings. This segmentation distributes the power handling and heat generation across two channels operating with 180-degree phase shift, improving heat dissipation and reducing peak stress on individual components while maintaining overall system functionality.
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
This approach reduces operating frequency and associated losses, enhancing overall efficiency by up to 2.6% across different voltage and load conditions.
Implementation Method 1
first, second, third and fourth inductors connected in parallel to each other; first, second, third and fourth switching elements, comprising a switch, connected to the first, second, third and fourth inductors respectively
Data Source
AI summary
A converter circuit according to an aspect of the disclosure may comprise: first, second, third and fourth inductors which are connected in parallel to each other; first, second, third and fourth switching elements comprising at least one switch connected to the first, second, third and fourth inductors respectively; and at least one processor, comprising processing circuitry, individually and/or collectively, configured to control the first, second, third and fourth switching elements, wherein the first inductor and the second inductors are coupled to each other, and the third inductor and fourth inductor are coupled each other.