Multi-Port Switched-Mode Converter for Independent Voltage Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing switched-mode power converters lack the ability to independently regulate multiple output voltages and efficiently manage power flow between multiple ports, particularly when additional ports are involved, leading to inefficiencies and limitations in controlling power parameters.
Innovation Solution
A switched-mode power converter with two DC ports that allows uni-directional or bi-directional power flow, incorporating a first inductance with alternating voltage and a second inductance operating in Discontinuous Conduction Mode, along with a controlled or uncontrolled power switch, to manage power flow and voltage control across multiple ports using duty cycle and switching frequency.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a conventional switched-mode power converter with a single output is used, then the circuit complexity is low, but the ability to independently regulate multiple output voltages is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies multi-functionality by enabling a single power converter circuit to independently regulate multiple output voltages (main output and auxiliary output) through dual control parameters. The converter universally handles both single-output and multi-output operations by incorporating an additional controllable switch that enables independent duty cycle control for each output, transforming a conventional single-function converter into a multi-functional device capable of simultaneous voltage regulation for different loads.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent segments the control function by introducing an additional power switch that divides the single duty cycle control into two independent duty cycle controls (one for the main output, another for the auxiliary output). This segmentation allows each output to be regulated independently while sharing the same power converter circuitry, thereby increasing versatility without proportionally increasing overall circuit complexity.
2Adaptability or versatility
If duty cycle and switching frequency control is applied to regulate two outputs, then independent voltage regulation is achieved, but the control complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The control system achieves multi-functionality by implementing dual duty cycle control (d1 for main output, d2 for auxiliary output) within a unified switching framework. Both outputs are regulated through the same power converter circuit using two independent duty cycle signals, allowing the control system to universally handle different voltage regulation requirements for multiple loads without requiring separate converter circuits.
Solution Approach 2:
The control system dynamically adjusts two independent duty cycle parameters (d1 and d2) to regulate the main output voltage and auxiliary output voltage respectively. This dynamic control approach allows flexible adaptation to different loading conditions and voltage requirements, enabling independent regulation of multiple outputs through real-time adjustment of switching parameters without increasing hardware complexity.
3Adaptability or versatility
If an additional secondary output is added to a Buck converter operating in Flyback mode, then auxiliary voltage generation is achieved, but cross-regulation issues arise and proportionality must be maintained
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transforms the auxiliary output from a passive proportionality-dependent function into an actively regulated independent output. By adding a controllable switch and implementing independent duty cycle control (d2) for the auxiliary output, the converter universally handles both main output and auxiliary output regulation, eliminating cross-regulation issues while maintaining the ability to generate auxiliary voltage as needed.
Solution Approach 2:
The control system employs feedback mechanisms to independently regulate the auxiliary output voltage through duty cycle d2. This feedback control allows the system to maintain stable auxiliary voltage output despite variations in loading conditions or main output parameters, thereby eliminating cross-regulation problems and ensuring reliable independent operation of both outputs.
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 independent regulation of voltages across multiple ports, reduces RMS current values, and optimizes power flow management, enhancing efficiency and performance by minimizing power losses.
Implementation Method 1
including at least an additional inductance Lm, to configure an additional DC port (200) connected to said inductance Lm, wherein a voltage in said inductance Lm alternates between a positive and a negative value at a switching frequency f
Implementation Method 2
a second inductance Ls2 operating in Discontinuous Conduction Mode (DCM)
Data Source
AI summary
An electrical switched-mode power converter (1) and a method to operate itThe power converter has some power switches, two DC ports (201, 202), in which power in each port (201, 202) may flow uni-directionally or bi-directionally, controlled by the duty cycle (d) of the power switches and including at least an inductance Lm (4) whose voltage waveform alternates between a positive (V+) and a negative (V−) values at the switching frequency of the converter and its mean value is zero in steady state. The power converter includes an additional DC port (200) connected to said inductance Lm (4), said DC port (200) with uni-directional or bi-directional power flow, comprising a controlled or un-controlled power switch (6), a second inductance Ls2 (7) operated to control the mean value of its current and an output capacitor (8) wherein the voltage of the additional DC port (200) is controlled by the switching frequency (f) of the power converter. The switching frequency and duty cycle of the power converter are controlled to provide a power flow according to three operative power pathways.