Isolated DC-DC Converter Dead-Time Control for Wide-Range Efficiency
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing isolated DC-DC converters face challenges in achieving high efficiency across wide input voltage and output load ranges, as they do not dynamically adjust dead times based on inductor current, leading to inefficiencies.
Innovation Solution
An isolated DC-DC converter with a phase shift type configuration, including a transformer, full-bridge switching circuit, protective circuit, and a control unit that dynamically determines dead times based on voltage and current values using voltage and current detection units, increasing dead times with increasing voltage and decreasing them with increasing current.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If fixed dead time is used in the full bridge circuit, then the converter structure is simple, but efficiency cannot be maintained across wide input voltage and output load ranges
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by making the dead time variable rather than fixed. The control unit dynamically adjusts the dead time period based on real-time detection of inductor current and voltage values, allowing the converter to adapt to varying input voltage and load conditions, thereby maintaining high efficiency across wide operating ranges.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the parameter of dead time from a constant value to a variable value that depends on operating conditions. By detecting inductor current and voltage and using these values to determine appropriate dead time durations, the system optimizes switching performance and reduces energy losses under different operating scenarios.
2Reliability
If dead time is increased to ensure proper switching, then switching reliability is improved, but switching losses increase and efficiency decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses dynamic adjustment of dead time based on real-time operating conditions. By detecting inductor current and voltage values and adapting the dead time period accordingly, the system maintains sufficient switching reliability while minimizing dead time-related losses, achieving an optimal balance between reliability and efficiency.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements feedback by detecting inductor current and voltage values and using this information to adjust the dead time period. This closed-loop control ensures that the dead time is neither too long (causing losses) nor too short (compromising reliability), but optimally adapted to current operating conditions.
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 configuration allows for higher efficiency in the isolated DC-DC converter by dynamically adjusting dead times, improving its ability to handle varying load conditions and maintaining efficiency across different voltage ranges.
Implementation Method 1
a transformer including a primary-side coil and a secondary-side coil
Implementation Method 2
an inductor
Data Source
AI summary
An isolated DC-DC converter includes a transformer, a full-bridge switching circuit, a protective circuit, a control unit, an inductor, and an output circuit. The isolated DC-DC converter includes a first voltage detection unit that detects a voltage value between a first conductive path and a second conductive path, and a first current detection unit that detects a current value of the inductor. The control unit determines at least one of a first dead time and a second dead time on the basis of the voltage value detected by the first voltage detection unit and the current value detected by the first current detection unit, using a method that increases the dead time as the voltage value increases and reduces the dead time as the current value increases.