Multi-Path Converter Using Capacitive Current Sharing for Lower Inductor Loss
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional power management circuits face challenges in achieving high power efficiency across a wide voltage range due to limitations in voltage conversion ratios and increased power loss in inductors as load current increases.
Innovation Solution
A multi-path converter that utilizes both inductive and capacitive current transfer paths in parallel to reduce the root mean square (RMS) current flowing through the inductor, thereby minimizing power loss and improving efficiency.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Area of stationary object
If the switched capacitor method is used to reduce PCB area, then the area of printed circuit board is reduced, but the practicable voltage conversion ratio becomes discontinuous and high efficiency characteristic can be achieved only at a specific voltage conversion ratio
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the power conversion function into multiple parallel paths: a switched capacitor path for voltage conversion and a switched inductor path for current transfer. This segmentation allows each path to operate optimally in different conditions, with the capacitor path handling voltage conversion and the inductor path providing continuous current supply, thereby achieving wide voltage conversion ratio adaptability while maintaining compact PCB area
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a hybrid power management circuit that performs multiple functions within a single integrated system. The multi-path converter simultaneously provides voltage conversion (capacitor path) and current supply (inductor path), making the system universally applicable across wide voltage and current ranges while maintaining high efficiency
2Adaptability or versatility
If the switched inductor method is used to achieve continuous voltage conversion ratio and wide efficiency range, then the practicable voltage conversion ratio becomes continuous, but the power management circuit becomes bulky and uses expensive inductors
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the power conversion function into two parallel paths with distinct roles: the switched capacitor path handles voltage conversion ratio adjustment, while the switched inductor path provides continuous current supply. This segmentation allows the inductor to be smaller since it only needs to supply current during specific phases, reducing overall circuit volume while maintaining wide voltage conversion capability
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a capacitor as an intermediary element that mediates between the input voltage and the load current. The capacitor path provides voltage conversion while the inductor path supplements current supply, allowing the inductor to be smaller and less expensive while maintaining continuous current capability across wide voltage ranges
3Power
If the load current is increased in switched inductor method, then the power consumption is increased, but the power loss caused by parasitic resistor is considerably increased
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the current supply function between two parallel paths: the capacitor path handles voltage conversion with minimal current, while the inductor path provides supplementary current during specific switching phases. This segmentation reduces the RMS current through the inductor, thereby reducing I²R losses in the parasitic resistor while maintaining high power consumption capability
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs periodic switching action where the inductor path is activated only during specific phases of the switching cycle to supplement current supply. This periodic operation reduces the average and RMS current through the inductor, minimizing power loss in the parasitic resistor while maintaining the ability to deliver high power to the load
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 multi-path converter significantly reduces power loss and heat generation, increases the usage time of devices, and minimizes the volume and cost of printed circuit boards by leveraging the lower parasitic resistance of capacitors compared to inductors.
Implementation Method 1
a first current transfer path using an inductor
Implementation Method 2
a second current transfer path using a capacitor
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention relates to a multi-path converter, which adds a current transfer path using a capacitor to a current transfer path using an inductor to supply a current that is output to an output end (load) to a plurality of parallel paths, thereby reducing a total RMS current flowing through the inductor, and a control method therefor.