Multi-Input LLC Converter Power Source Selection With Fewer Switches

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing LLC converters in electrical power systems are limited to a single power source connection, lack power source selection capability, and suffer from inefficiencies and space constraints when multiple power inputs are introduced, particularly due to additional switches which decrease efficiency and increase size.

Innovation Solution

A power source-selection circuit and control interface are implemented to manage multiple power inputs to a single LLC converter, utilizing a reduced number of switches, including power source-selection and resonant converter switches, with a control circuit to manage operational states, enabling efficient power source selection and connection to available sources.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If multiple power inputs are connected to an LLC converter, then power source selection capability and system reliability are improved, but the number of switches increases which decreases efficiency and increases device size

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvepower supply reliabilityVSAvoidconverter efficiency

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSLoss of energy

Solution Approach 1:

The patent divides the power input system into N separate power input circuits, each with its own input node, source-selection capacitor, and associated switches. This segmentation allows independent control of each power source while maintaining overall system efficiency through selective operation of individual circuits based on power source availability and quality

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent implements dynamic power source selection through control signals that adjust the operational state of switches in real-time based on power source conditions. The control interface receives control signals that dynamically enable or disable specific power input circuits, allowing the system to adapt to changing power source availability and maintain optimal efficiency

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

2Adaptability or versatility

If multiple power inputs are connected to an LLC converter, then power source selection capability is improved, but the number of switches increases which increases physical space requirements

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvepower source selection capabilityVSAvoidcircuit board area

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSArea of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent designs each power input circuit with universal components that can handle multiple power source types. The source-selection capacitors and switches are configured to work with any power source connected to the input node, providing versatile power source selection capability without requiring dedicated components for each power source type

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent reduces the physical footprint by transitioning from a planar arrangement of multiple independent power circuits to a layered configuration where source-selection capacitors are positioned between the power input node and the LLC converter. This dimensional reorganization allows for more compact component placement and reduces overall circuit board area

Inventive Principle:

Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

3Reliability

If multiple power inputs are connected to an LLC converter, then system reliability is improved, but device complexity increases due to additional switches and control requirements

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvepower supply reliabilityVSAvoidcircuit complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent merges the control functions for multiple power input circuits into a single control interface that receives control signals and manages the operational state of all switches. This unified control approach reduces the complexity of having separate control circuits for each power input while maintaining the ability to independently control each power source

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent introduces source-selection capacitors as intermediary components between the power input nodes and the LLC converter. These capacitors serve as mediators that facilitate power source selection and isolation, simplifying the control logic by providing natural electrical isolation points that reduce the complexity of switch control and power source management

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Data Source

PatentUS20260012098A1Method for implementing a full input source power input control function on multiple power inputs to a single LLC converter in a distribution system

Publication Date: 2026.01.08 HAMILTON SUNDSTRAND CORP

AI summary

A power SS circuit includes N power input circuits, an output node configured to connect to an input node of voltage-fed power converter, and a control interface that receives control signals for controlling operational/non-operational states switches within the power input circuits. The power input circuits include N input nodes connected to N power sources, respectively. Each respective power input circuit includes: a SS capacitor including a first terminal connected to ground; an SS switch including a first terminal as a respective input node among the input nodes and configured to connect a second terminal of the SS capacitor to the respective input node in the operational state; and a voltage-fed converter switch including a first terminal connected to a second terminal of the SS switch and configured to connect the second terminal of the SS capacitor to the output node of power SS circuit in the operational state.