Multi-Output Power Converter for DC Distribution
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional DC/DC converters require multiple units to distribute power to multiple loads, increasing component count and cost, as they typically have a single input and output port.
Innovation Solution
A power converter design featuring a transformer with multiple windings and switching elements that can be configured to distribute DC power within a single circuit structure, allowing power input to be transmitted to multiple contacts through controlled switching configurations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple DC/DC converters are used to supply power to multiple loads, then power distribution capability is improved, but device complexity and component count increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies multi-functionality by designing a single DC/DC converter with multiple output ports that can supply power to multiple loads simultaneously. The converter integrates the functions of what would traditionally require multiple separate converters, allowing one device to perform multiple power distribution tasks. This is achieved through a unified control system and multiple output circuits within a single converter architecture.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent combines multiple DC/DC converter functions into a single integrated device. By merging the power conversion and distribution functions into one unit with multiple output ports, the system eliminates the need for separate converter devices. The control unit coordinates multiple output channels within a single converter, achieving the effect of combining multiple devices into one while maintaining independent power distribution capability to multiple loads.
2Power
If multiple DC/DC converters are used for power distribution, then power supply capacity is improved, but cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent reduces cost by merging multiple converter functions into a single device. Instead of purchasing and installing multiple separate DC/DC converters, the system uses one converter with multiple output ports, thereby reducing component procurement costs, assembly costs, and overall manufacturing complexity while maintaining the required power supply capacity to multiple loads.
Solution Approach 2:
The multi-functional converter design allows a single device to replace multiple specialized converters, reducing the overall system cost. By making one converter capable of serving multiple loads with different power requirements, the system eliminates redundant components and reduces the total cost of power distribution while maintaining adequate power supply capacity.
3Device complexity
If a single DC/DC converter is used, then device complexity is reduced, but power distribution capability is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies segmentation by dividing the power output of a single DC/DC converter into multiple independent output ports. Each output port can independently supply power to different loads, effectively segmenting the power distribution function within a single device. This allows the converter to handle multiple loads simultaneously while maintaining a unified control structure, thus improving power distribution capability without proportionally increasing device complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from a single-output to a multi-output architecture by adding the dimension of multiple output ports. This dimensional expansion allows the single converter to distribute power to multiple loads in different directions or channels, effectively increasing power distribution capability while keeping the core converter structure unified and relatively simple.
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
Enables efficient distribution of DC power to multiple loads within a single circuit structure, reducing the need for multiple converters and minimizing component count and cost while maintaining effective power management.
Implementation Method 1
The transformer includes a first side and a second side, wherein the first side has a first winding and a second winding... The second side has a third winding and a fourth winding
Implementation Method 2
The first switching element has a first end and a second end, wherein the first end of the first switching element is electrically connected to the third contact, and the second end of the first switching element is electrically connected to the first end of the first winding
Data Source
AI summary
A power converter includes a first contact, a second contact, a third contact, a fourth contact, a first ground contact, a second ground contact, a transformer, and a first switching element to a fifth switching element. The first switching element to the fifth switching element is controllable to switch on or off to form a first configuration and a second configuration, wherein the first configuration allows a power input to the first contact to be transmitted to the third contact through a first side of the transformer, and the second configuration allows a power input to the second contact to be transmitted to the fourth contact through the first side to a second side of the transformer, thereby to distribute the DC power in the same circuit structure.