LLC Converter Driver Reuse for Full-Bridge Power Upgrade
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Solution Overview
Problem
Modifying a half-bridge LLC converter to a full-bridge LLC converter for large power applications is costly due to the need for additional arm transistors and replacing the original driver with a micro-controller unit, requiring firmware modifications.
Innovation Solution
Incorporating a feedback circuit and a second driving circuit that cooperatively drive both arm transistor groups, allowing the existing driver to control the newly-added transistors without replacing it with a micro-controller unit, thereby reducing the cost of modification.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a micro-controller unit is added to drive the newly-added arm transistor group, then the full-bridge LLC converter can operate, but the cost of modifying the converter increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The original driver circuit is made multi-functional by adding a second feedback winding and coupling circuit, enabling it to drive both the original arm transistor group and the newly-added arm transistor group. This eliminates the need for a separate micro-controller unit and reduces modification costs while achieving full-bridge converter functionality.
2Adaptability or versatility
If firmware writing based on two arm transistor groups is performed, then the micro-controller unit can control the full-bridge converter, but the modification cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The driver circuit serves itself by using its existing feedback winding and adding a second feedback winding to generate drive signals for both arm transistor groups. This self-service approach eliminates the need for external micro-controller intervention and firmware modifications, significantly reducing manufacturing complexity and cost.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the original driver is removed and replaced with a micro-controller unit, then the converter can be upgraded to full-bridge, but the modification complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The driving functions for both arm transistor groups are merged into a single driver circuit by adding a second feedback winding and coupling circuit. This consolidation maintains full-bridge converter capability while avoiding the increased complexity and cost associated with replacing the original driver with a micro-controller unit.
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
Enables cost-effective conversion from a half-bridge to a full-bridge LLC converter by utilizing the existing driver and feedback circuit to drive both arm transistor groups, reducing the need for firmware modifications and lowering the overall modification cost.
Implementation Method 1
the feedback circuit and the resonant circuit are inductively coupled for generating the feedback signal corresponding to a current value of the resonant circuit
Implementation Method 2
The feedback capacitor is coupled between the second feedback winding and the reference low voltage. The feedback capacitor compensates the phase of the sensing voltage signal for generating the feedback signal
Implementation Method 3
The coupling circuit transmits the control signal from the first driving circuit to the second driving circuit by inductive coupling
Data Source
AI summary
A power converter is provided. The power converter includes an LLC converter, a feedback circuit, a first driving circuit, and a second driving circuit. The LLC converter includes a first arm transistor group and a second arm transistor group. The feedback circuit provides a feedback signal corresponding to a current value of the LLC converter. The first driving circuit drives the first arm transistor group in response to the feedback signal and provides a control signal. The second driving circuit drives the second arm transistor group in response to the control signal.