LLC Resonant Converter Frequency Adjustment

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing LLC resonant converters face challenges in efficiently adjusting resonant frequency in response to varying load conditions, leading to suboptimal performance in terms of power density and efficiency.

Innovation Solution

The implementation of a resonant frequency adjusting apparatus that includes a series resonant inductor, a series resonant capacitor, a parallel inductor, and a switch connected in series with a resonant frequency adjusting device, allowing the resonant tank to operate at different switching frequencies based on load conditions, thereby optimizing zero voltage and zero current switching.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Productivity

If the resonant frequency is fixed in traditional LLC converters, then the circuit structure is simple, but the efficiency and power density cannot be optimized under varying load conditions

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvepower densityVSAvoidcircuit structure
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements dynamic resonant frequency adjustment by introducing a resonant frequency adjusting device that can modify the resonant tank parameters in real-time based on load conditions. The device includes switching elements that dynamically reconfigure the resonant circuit, allowing the resonant frequency to adapt to varying loads and maintain optimal efficiency across different operating points.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The patent changes the electrical parameters of the resonant tank by introducing adjustable inductance and capacitance elements. The resonant frequency adjusting device modifies the effective L and C values in the resonant circuit, enabling the resonant frequency to be tuned dynamically. This parameter adjustment allows the converter to maintain zero-voltage switching and maximize power density under different load conditions.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

2Loss of energy

If the resonant frequency is adjusted dynamically, then the efficiency is improved under varying loads, but the device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveswitching lossesVSAvoidresonant frequency adjusting device
Core Design Contradiction:
Loss of energyVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent reduces switching losses by dynamically adjusting the resonant frequency to match the switching frequency under different load conditions. The resonant frequency adjusting device modifies the tank impedance parameters to maintain resonance, enabling soft switching operation and minimizing switching losses across the full load range.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

Solution Approach 2:

The patent implements a control mechanism that monitors load conditions and adjusts the resonant frequency accordingly. The resonant frequency adjusting device receives feedback about the operating state and dynamically reconfigures the resonant circuit parameters to maintain optimal efficiency, thereby reducing energy losses through adaptive tuning.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

3Productivity

If traditional resonant converters are used, then the isolation function is provided, but the efficiency cannot be optimized for different load conditions

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveconverter efficiencyVSAvoidload condition adaptability
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The patent enhances load adaptability by making the resonant frequency dynamic rather than fixed. The resonant frequency adjusting device continuously adapts the resonant tank characteristics to match varying load conditions, allowing the converter to maintain high efficiency across different operating points while preserving the isolation function through the transformer.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

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 solution enhances the efficiency of the LLC resonant converter by dynamically adjusting the resonant frequency in response to load changes, reducing switching losses and improving overall power converter performance.

Implementation Method 1

a first series resonant inductor coupled to the switching network and the transformer, a first series resonant capacitor coupled to the switching network and the transformer

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElectromagnetic energy storage: Inductor

Implementation Method 2

a first series resonant inductor coupled to the switching network and the transformer, a first series resonant capacitor coupled to the switching network and the transformer

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectCapacitance: Capacitance

Implementation Method 3

a transformer, a rectifier coupled to a secondary side of the transformer

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElectromagnetic induction: Electromagnetic Induction

Data Source

PatentUS9484821B2Adjustable resonant apparatus for power converters
Publication Date: 2016.11.01 HUAWEI DIGITAL POWER TECH CO LTD
  • US9484821B2 patent drawing
  • US9484821B2 patent drawing
  • US9484821B2 patent drawing

AI summary

An apparatus comprises a first series resonant inductor coupled to a switching network and a transformer, a first series resonant capacitor coupled to the switching network and the transformer, a first parallel inductor coupled to the switching network through the first series resonant inductor and the first series resonant capacitor, a resonant frequency adjusting device coupled to the switching network and the transformer and a switch connected in series with the resonant frequency adjusting device.