Multi-phase DC/DC Converter Load-Adaptive Control

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing multi-phase power circuits face inefficiencies in conversion efficiency due to equal control of output currents from DC/DC converters, which limits their performance according to load current variations.

Innovation Solution

A power circuit configuration that includes multiple DC/DC converters with adjustable output currents and phases, controlled by a DC/DC controller to optimize output voltage and current combinations, allowing for varying output current values and phases to improve conversion efficiency based on load conditions.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Stability of the object's composition

If output currents of DC/DC converters are controlled to be equal to each other, then stable output with low ripple is achieved, but conversion efficiency is reduced

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveoutput stabilityVSAvoidconversion efficiency
Core Design Contradiction:
Stability of the object's compositionVSLoss of energy

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies local quality by assigning different output current values to different DC/DC converters based on their individual characteristics and load requirements. Instead of uniform current distribution, each converter operates at an optimized current level that maximizes overall system efficiency while maintaining stable combined output.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #3Local quality

Solution Approach 2:

The patent implements dynamics by enabling the control circuit to dynamically adjust the output currents of individual DC/DC converters based on real-time load conditions. The system transitions from static equal current control to dynamic unequal current control, allowing optimization of conversion efficiency across varying load scenarios while maintaining output stability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

2Power

If multiple DC/DC converters operate in parallel with equal currents, then high power output is achieved, but conversion efficiency deteriorates under varying load conditions

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvepower outputVSAvoidconversion efficiency
Core Design Contradiction:
PowerVSLoss of energy

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies parameter changes by modifying the output current parameters of individual DC/DC converters based on load conditions. The control circuit adjusts current values as variables rather than fixed equal values, enabling the system to maintain high power output while optimizing conversion efficiency across different load scenarios through parameter optimization.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

3Loss of energy

If output currents are dynamically adjusted, then conversion efficiency is improved, but control complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveconversion efficiencyVSAvoidcontrol circuit complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Loss of energyVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements feedback mechanisms where the control circuit monitors output conditions and dynamically adjusts the output currents of individual DC/DC converters accordingly. This feedback-based control enables efficient load distribution and optimization of conversion efficiency while managing control complexity through automated closed-loop regulation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

Data Source

PatentUS9369044B2Multi-phase power circuit
Publication Date: 2016.06.14 KK TOSHIBA
  • US9369044B2 patent drawing
  • US9369044B2 patent drawing
  • US9369044B2 patent drawing

AI summary

According to one embodiment, a power circuit includes an input terminal 1 to which a DC input voltage is applied, an output terminal 2, a first DC/DC converter which receives the DC input voltage and supplies a first phase output current to the output terminal 2, a second DC/DC converter which supplies an output current lower than the first phase output current to the output terminal in a second phase which is different from the first phase, and a controller which controls operations of the first and second DC/DC converters.