Modular Floating-Terminal Power Converter for High Step Ratios
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing power converters face inefficiencies and increased component count as the transformation ratio increases, particularly in switch-mode power converters, due to the need for multiple capacitors and switches, and there is a lack of flexibility in separating voltage transformation and regulation functions.
Innovation Solution
A modular power converter architecture that combines switching networks and regulating circuits in various configurations, allowing for modular assembly and adiabatic charging of capacitors to reduce energy loss and improve efficiency, using bidirectional and multi-phase networks with magnetic storage elements to control current flow.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Power
If the transformation ratio increases in switch-mode power converters, then voltage transformation capability improves, but the number of capacitors and switches increases
Solution Approach 1:
The power converter is divided into multiple modular stages, each with its own switching network and regulating circuit. This segmentation allows the overall transformation ratio to be achieved through cascaded stages rather than requiring a single complex stage, thereby reducing the component count per stage while maintaining total transformation capability.
Solution Approach 2:
Each modular stage is designed to be universal and can be configured for different transformation ratios by switching between different capacitor arrangements. The same basic stage topology can handle various voltage transformation requirements, reducing the need for specialized components for each transformation ratio.
2Device complexity
If traditional single-stage converters are used, then device simplicity is maintained, but flexibility in separating voltage transformation and regulation functions is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The converter is segmented into distinct transformation stages and regulation stages. Each stage has a specific function - the switching network handles voltage transformation while the regulating circuit maintains output stability. This functional separation provides design flexibility while keeping each individual stage relatively simple.
Solution Approach 2:
The converter allows dynamic configuration where the transformation and regulation functions can be independently adjusted. The switching networks can be reconfigured for different transformation ratios while the regulating circuits independently maintain output specifications, providing adaptability without requiring complete redesign.
3Speed
If conventional capacitor charging methods are used, then charging speed is maintained, but energy loss increases
Solution Approach 1:
The switching networks employ periodic switching actions to charge capacitors in controlled phases. By using multi-phase switching sequences, the capacitors are charged in staged intervals rather than single abrupt pulses, reducing peak current demands and associated energy losses while maintaining effective charging speed through the periodic action.
Solution Approach 2:
The charging process utilizes parameter changes in the switching waveforms, including controlled rise times and frequency modulation, to optimize the energy transfer to capacitors. By adjusting switching parameters dynamically, the system achieves efficient energy transfer that minimizes losses while maintaining required charging rates.
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 solution provides a flexible and efficient power conversion system with reduced energy loss, smaller component sizes, and the ability to handle both DC and AC inputs, while maintaining stable output voltage and current.
Implementation Method 1
a regulating circuit having an inductance, and switching elements connected to the inductance
Implementation Method 2
a switching network having an input port and an output port, charge storage elements, and switching elements connected to the charge storage elements
Data Source
AI summary
An apparatus for electric power conversion includes a converter having a regulating circuit and switching network. The regulating circuit has magnetic storage elements, and switches connected to the magnetic storage elements and controllable to switch between switching configurations. The regulating circuit maintains an average DC current through a magnetic storage element. The switching network includes charge storage elements connected to switches that are controllable to switch between plural switch configurations. In one configuration, the switches forms an arrangement of charge storage elements in which at least one charge storage element is charged using the magnetic storage element through the network input or output port. In another, the switches form an arrangement of charge storage elements in which an element discharges using the magnetic storage element through one of the input port and output port of the switching network.