Modular Power Converter Master-Slave Configuration
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing power converters often face stability issues when coupled in parallel, as they may not be optimally selected or positioned on a printed circuit board, leading to overloading and inefficient regulation due to differences in gain and maximum output current.
Innovation Solution
A modular power converter design featuring an error amplifier, reference current circuit branch, and load current circuit branch, with a switching matrix that allows dynamic reconfiguration of power converters to form a stable and efficient combined output, enabling a master and slave configuration to achieve a variable maximum output current.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Power
If two or more power converters are coupled in parallel to increase maximum output current, then the required output current is achieved, but stability problems arise and one converter may be effectively regulating while the other is off or in current limit
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a feedback mechanism where the output current of the first power converter is monitored and used to dynamically adjust the reference current of the second power converter. This ensures that both converters operate in a stable and coordinated manner, preventing one converter from being off or in current limit while the other is regulating. The feedback loop maintains proper current sharing and stability across parallel converters.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary control mechanism that mediates between multiple power converters. A control circuit acts as an intermediary to coordinate the operation of parallel converters by dynamically adjusting their reference currents based on actual output conditions. This intermediary control ensures stable operation and proper current distribution among coupled converters.
2Device complexity
If power converters are fixed in position on the PCB during design, then the PMIC structure is simplified, but the ability to adapt to application-specific requirements is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic configurability in power converter positions within the PMIC structure. Switching elements enable the physical location and functional assignment of power converters to be changed dynamically based on application requirements. This allows the same PMIC to be reconfigured for different applications without requiring a new design, achieving both structural simplicity and high adaptability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a universal PMIC architecture where power converters can serve multiple functions and positions depending on configuration. The same power converter circuit can be assigned to different output positions or configured to work in parallel with other converters based on application needs. This multi-functionality approach allows a single PMIC design to serve multiple application-specific requirements.
3Power
If power converters with different gains are coupled, then the available output current range is increased, but only one converter may be effectively regulating while the other is off or in current limit
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs feedback control to monitor the output current and dynamically adjust the reference currents of power converters with different gains. This feedback mechanism ensures that converters with different gains operate in coordination, with each converter contributing effectively to the total output current. The feedback loop prevents situations where one converter is off or in current limit while the other is regulating.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent dynamically changes the reference current parameters of power converters based on operating conditions. By adjusting the reference current of the second power converter according to the actual output current of the first converter, the system optimizes the contribution of each converter regardless of their different gains. This parameter adjustment ensures both converters operate effectively within their optimal ranges.
Data Source
AI summary
A power converter comprising an error amplifier, a reference current circuit branch and load current circuit branch is presented. The error amplifier is configured to generate an error signal based on a reference value and an output signal at an output of the power converter. The reference current circuit branch comprises a modulation device configured to modulate, based on the error signal, a reference current in the reference current circuit branch. The load current circuit branch comprises a first output transistor configured to adjust, based on the reference current, an output current at the output of the power converter. In addition, the power converter may comprise a slave current circuit branch with a second output transistor configured to adjust, based on the reference current, a slave current in the slave current circuit branch for controlling an external slave power converter.