Load-Adaptive Power Converter Control for Loss and Peak Current
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing power converters face challenges in meeting high power and high voltage requirements due to limitations in switching frequency, leading to increased losses, peak currents, and costs associated with larger inductors.
Innovation Solution
A power converter that adjusts its operating mode based on output power to reduce switching frequency and peak current, utilizing multiple switching components and inductors to optimize performance across varying loads.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Power
If the switching component works at a frequency higher than the upper limit of the switching frequency, then the power converter can meet high power and high voltage requirements, but the switching component may not be effectively switched and loss increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by making the switching frequency adjustable rather than fixed. The control system dynamically adjusts the switching frequency based on real-time operating conditions, allowing the power converter to operate at optimal frequencies that prevent excessive switching losses while meeting power and voltage requirements. This is achieved through a control device that monitors operating parameters and modifies switching signals accordingly.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the switching frequency parameter adaptively based on operating conditions. By varying the switching frequency within certain ranges, the system avoids operating at frequencies that cause excessive losses while still achieving the required power output. The control device adjusts this parameter in response to changes in load, input voltage, and other operating conditions.
2Power
If an inductor component with a larger inductance value is disposed in the power converter to meet higher peak current, then the peak current requirement is met, but the volume and costs of the inductor increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by making the effective inductance adjustable through switching configurations. Rather than using a single large fixed inductor, the system dynamically reconfigures the circuit topology to provide appropriate inductance values for different operating conditions. This allows the use of smaller inductors that can be switched in and out based on the required peak current capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent segments the inductance function across multiple components and switching states. Instead of relying on one large inductor, the system uses multiple smaller inductors or the same inductor in different configurations, activated by switching components. This segmentation allows the system to achieve high peak current capability when needed while using smaller, more compact inductor components.
3Loss of energy
If the switching frequency is reduced to reduce switching loss, then the loss decreases, but the power converter may not meet high power and high voltage requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The patent resolves this contradiction through dynamic adjustment of switching frequency. The control system monitors power output requirements and adjusts the switching frequency accordingly - using lower frequencies when possible to reduce losses, and increasing frequency when higher power output is required. This dynamic balance allows the system to minimize losses while meeting power demands.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the switching frequency parameter based on power output requirements. By adjusting this parameter within an optimal range rather than using a fixed frequency, the system can reduce switching losses during low-power operation while maintaining sufficient frequency for high-power operation. The control device implements these parameter changes in response to load conditions.
Data Source
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AI summary
This application provides a power converter and a control method, so that the power converter can run in a first mode or a second mode by adjusting on and off of a switching component in the power converter. When the power converter runs in the first mode, a peak current flowing through an inductor is higher, and a switching frequency of the switching component is lower; or when the power converter runs in the second mode, a peak current flowing through an inductor is lower, and a switching frequency of the switching component is higher. When an output power of the power converter is less than a first specified power, a current output by the power converter is small, and the power converter runs in the first mode; or when an output power of the power converter is greater than or equal to a first specified power, a current output by the power converter increases, and the power converter runs in the second mode. In this way, a running mode of the power converter can be selected based on the output power of the power converter, so as to reduce the switching frequency of the switching component, thereby reducing a loss; and further reduce the peak current, thereby reducing a volume and costs of the inductor.