Multiple Input DC-DC Converter Equal Load Sharing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing multiple input DC to DC converters struggle to equally balance the load across multiple power sources, leading to sequential load sharing, voltage fluctuations, and current imbalances, which result in undesirable signals and inefficient power distribution.
Innovation Solution
A multiple input, single output DC to DC converter system that includes an output current sharing controller and DC to DC converter modules, where the output current of each module is adjusted by comparing it to a reference current, allowing for simultaneous and equal load sharing across all power sources through duty cycle adjustments.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If sequential switching between multiple DC power sources is used, then the converter can operate with multiple inputs, but the load cannot be shared equally and voltage fluctuations occur
Solution Approach 1:
The system divides the single output load into multiple parallel paths, each connected to a separate DC power source through its own DC-DC converter module. Each module independently converts power from its source, allowing simultaneous operation of multiple inputs while maintaining stable output through parallel contribution of each segmented power path.
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements a feedback control mechanism where the output current of each DC-DC converter module is monitored and compared against a reference current. Based on this comparison, the controller adjusts the duty cycle of each module to ensure equal load sharing, thereby maintaining voltage stability and preventing fluctuations that would occur with sequential switching.
2Ease of operation
If one DC power source supplies the entire load, then the system is simple to control, but the other power sources remain underutilized and energy efficiency decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The system merges multiple DC power sources into a unified parallel configuration, where each source contributes to the total load through its own DC-DC converter module. The output currents from all modules are combined at the common output, allowing simultaneous utilization of all power sources while maintaining simple control through a centralized current-sharing controller that manages all modules.
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically adjusts the duty cycle of each DC-DC converter module based on real-time load conditions and power source availability. This dynamic control allows the system to optimize energy distribution across multiple sources, ensuring that all available power sources are utilized efficiently while maintaining simple operational control through automated load sharing.
3Productivity
If multiple DC to DC converter modules operate in parallel, then equal load sharing can be achieved, but the system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system employs identical DC-DC converter modules for each power source, where each module is designed to perform the same conversion function. This universal approach simplifies the overall system architecture by using standardized building blocks that can be easily replicated and managed, reducing complexity compared to using different converter designs for each source while maintaining high power distribution efficiency through parallel operation.
Data Source
AI summary
A system, method and apparatus of balancing a direct current load across a multiple direct current power sources includes receiving multiple direct current inputs to the inputs of a multiple input, single output DC to DC converter. The output current of each one of the direct current inputs is compared to a reference current. The direct current inputs are adjusted in corresponding DC to DC converter modules until the output current of each one of the direct current inputs is equal to the reference current. The adjusted output of the DC to DC converter modules is combined to a single output current that can be output to supply the single output current to a load.