LLC Converter Resonance Inductance Optimization

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing power converters are unable to maximize power output due to excessive resonance inductance values, which increase the size of components, reduce efficiency, and limit power transmission time.

Innovation Solution

A power converter design that includes a transformer with magnetically coupled windings, a bridge circuit with switching elements, and an inductor, where the resonance inductance value is optimized to satisfy specific formulas, reducing the inductance value and enabling zero-voltage switching, thereby maximizing power output and efficiency.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If the resonance inductance value is increased to ensure stable operation, then the reliability is improved, but the component size increases and power output capability is reduced

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvestable operationVSAvoidcomponent size
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSVolume of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent changes the resonance inductance value parameter from a conventional high value to a specifically optimized lower value that satisfies Formula (1). This parameter change enables the system to achieve both stable operation and reduced component size, resolving the contradiction between reliability and volume.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

Solution Approach 2:

The patent introduces dynamic control of the switching element to operate in critical conduction mode, where the switching timing is precisely controlled to achieve zero-current switching. This dynamic operation allows the system to maintain stability with reduced inductance values, thereby reducing component size while ensuring reliable operation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

2Use of energy by moving object

If the resonance inductance value is increased to store more energy, then the power storage capability is improved, but the power conversion efficiency is reduced due to increased current reciprocation

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvepower storage capabilityVSAvoidpower conversion efficiency
Core Design Contradiction:
Use of energy by moving objectVSLoss of energy

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies partial action by using just enough inductance to achieve critical conduction mode operation. The resonance inductance is optimized to the minimum value needed to enable zero-current switching, avoiding excessive energy storage that would cause increased current reciprocation and efficiency losses.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #16Partial or excessive action

Solution Approach 2:

The patent implements critical conduction mode operation where the switching element turns off precisely when the current reaches zero. This allows the system to quickly transfer energy without prolonged current reciprocation, improving power conversion efficiency while maintaining adequate power storage capability through optimized inductance values.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #21Skipping (Rushing through)

3Loss of energy

If the resonance inductance value is increased to reduce switching losses, then the power conversion efficiency is improved, but the power output capability is reduced

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveswitching lossesVSAvoidpower output capability
Core Design Contradiction:
Loss of energyVSPower

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements dynamic switching control where the switching element operates in critical conduction mode, turning off at zero current. This dynamic timing optimization reduces switching losses without requiring excessive inductance values, thereby maintaining power output capability while improving efficiency.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The patent optimizes the resonance inductance parameter to a specific value that enables zero-current switching operation. This parameter optimization achieves reduced switching losses while maintaining adequate power output capability, resolving the contradiction between efficiency and power capability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

4Reliability

If the resonance inductance value is increased to ensure stable operation, then the reliability is improved, but the power output capability is reduced

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvestable operationVSAvoidpower output capability
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSPower

Solution Approach 1:

The patent employs dynamic critical conduction mode operation where switching timing is precisely controlled to occur at zero current. This dynamic control achieves stable operation with reduced inductance values, enabling both reliability and high power output capability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The patent optimizes the resonance inductance parameter to satisfy Formula (1), which represents the minimum value needed for stable operation. This parameter change enables the system to achieve both reliable operation and maximum power output capability by eliminating excessive inductance that would limit power capability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

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 optimized resonance inductance value reduces component size, increases power output, and improves power conversion efficiency by minimizing current reciprocation and switching losses.

Implementation Method 1

a transformer including a primary winding and a secondary winding magnetically coupled to the primary winding

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectMagnetic coupling: Electromagnetic Induction

Implementation Method 2

capacitors and an inductor that form a resonance circuit

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectResonance: Resonance

Data Source

PatentUS9705409B2Equations for an LLC converter having increased power output capabilities
Publication Date: 2017.07.11 PANASONIC INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY MANAGEMENT CO LTD
  • US9705409B2 patent drawing
  • US9705409B2 patent drawing
  • US9705409B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A power converter includes a transformer including a transformer including a primary winding and a secondary winding magnetically coupled to the primary winding, a bridge circuit including a switching element, and an inductor. A direct current voltage is converted into an alternating current voltage by turning on and off the switching element in the bridge circuit. An output voltage in the secondary winding is induced by supplying the alternating current voltage to the primary winding. The inductor is disposed on a path connecting the switching element and the primary winding. A resonance inductance value Lr including a leakage inductance value of the transformer and an inductance value of the inductor satisfies Formula 1.