Interleaved Power Supply Phase Control for Current Balance
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Solution Overview
Problem
Interleaved power factor correction (PFC) circuit power supplies face issues with current unbalance between phases, leading to high current stress on components when operating in interleaved mode, especially during surges or increased load conditions.
Innovation Solution
A controller is used to switch the operation mode from interleaved to in-phase when the output current exceeds a threshold, allowing for balanced current distribution by adjusting the current limit values and switching back to interleaved mode when conditions are met, thereby reducing component stress and achieving balanced operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Stress or pressure
If the power supply operates in interleaved mode, then current ripple at the output is reduced, but current unbalance between phases occurs leading to high current stress on components
Solution Approach 1:
The power supply dynamically switches between interleaved mode and in-phase mode based on operating conditions. The controller monitors output current and automatically changes the phase relationship between converter phases to optimize performance and reduce component stress under different load conditions
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the operational parameter of phase relationship between converter phases. By adjusting the phase shift angle between interleaved operation (180 degrees) and in-phase operation (0 degrees), the system adapts to different current conditions to balance current distribution and reduce stress on individual components
2Use of energy by moving object
If the power supply operates in interleaved mode, then power factor correction is improved, but component stress increases during surge or increased load conditions
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically adapts its operational mode based on load conditions. During normal operation, interleaved mode provides excellent power factor correction. During surge or high load conditions, the system automatically transitions to in-phase mode to distribute current more evenly and reduce stress on individual components, maintaining both efficiency and reliability
Data Source
AI summary
According to some aspects of the present disclosure, example interleaved power supplies and corresponding control methods are disclosed. Example interleaved power supplies include an input terminal, an output terminal, and a first phase circuit coupled between the input terminal and the output terminal. The first phase circuit includes a first inductor and a first switch. The power supply also includes a second phase circuit coupled between the input terminal and the output terminal. The second phase circuit includes a second inductor and a second switch. The power supply further includes at least one current sensor, and a controller operable to control the first phase circuit and the second phase circuit in an interleaved mode when the sensed output current is below a current threshold and to control the first phase circuit and the second phase circuit in an in-phase mode when the output current is above the current threshold.