Multiplexed DC-DC Converter Topology for Wide Input Voltage

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing DC-DC converters have low efficiency and power density, particularly in industrial applications requiring multiple voltage levels.

Innovation Solution

A DC-DC converter topology with a Buck converter, Boost converter, and phase-shifted full-bridge converter in series, utilizing multiplexed inductors and switching tubes with soft switching and synchronous rectification to reduce switching losses and increase power density.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Loss of energy

If a basic DC-DC converter topology is used, then the structure is simple, but the conversion efficiency and power density are low

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveconversion efficiencyVSAvoidconverter topology complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Loss of energyVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines Buck, Boost, and full-bridge converter topologies into a single integrated circuit structure. Multiple switching tubes (Q1-Q6) and inductors (L1, L2) are merged to perform multiple functions simultaneously, achieving high conversion efficiency while maintaining reasonable structural complexity through functional integration.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The converter topology is designed to provide multiple output voltage levels (Vout1, Vout2, Vout3) from a single input, making it universally applicable to various industrial scenarios requiring different voltage levels. The same circuit structure can step down or step up voltages depending on the switching states and duty cycles of the integrated switching tubes.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Adaptability or versatility

If multiple output ports are added to meet multi-voltage-level requirements, then the adaptability increases, but the device complexity and filtering requirements increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemulti-voltage-level capabilityVSAvoidconverter structure complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent segments the output into multiple independent ports (Vout1, Vout2, Vout3) that can be independently controlled through different switching tube combinations. Each output port has its own filtering requirements that can be addressed separately, allowing the system to adapt to different voltage level requirements without requiring a completely different converter design for each scenario.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

3Power

If the switching frequency is increased to improve power density, then the power density increases, but the switching losses increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvepower densityVSAvoidswitching losses
Core Design Contradiction:
PowerVSLoss of energy

Solution Approach 1:

The patent employs periodic switching of multiple switching tubes (Q1-Q6) with different duty cycles to achieve continuous current flow through the inductors. This periodic action allows the converter to operate at higher frequencies while maintaining continuous conduction mode, which reduces the impact of switching losses on overall efficiency while increasing power density.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #19Periodic action

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 solution achieves higher conversion efficiency, increased power density, and a wide DC input range, enabling multiple output ports and efficient handling of multiple voltage levels, while reducing costs and filtering complexity.

Implementation Method 1

an inductor, a rectifier module, a first bridge arm topology and a second bridge arm topology and a third bridge arm topology in parallel as well as a capacitor, wherein the first bridge arm topology includes a first switching tube and a fourth switching tube in series, the second bridge arm topology includes a second switching tube and a fifth switching tube in series, and the third bridge arm topology includes a third switching tube and a sixth switching tube in series

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElectromagnetic induction: Electromagnetic Induction

Implementation Method 2

an input end of the rectifier module has one end connected to the coupling point formed by connecting the second switching tube and the fifth switching tube in series, and the other end connected to a coupling point formed by connecting the third switching tube and the sixth switching tube in series, and the rectifier module is used to convert an alternating current into a direct current

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElectromagnetic rectification: Electromagnetic Induction

Data Source

PatentUS10958180B2DC-DC converter for wide input voltage
Publication Date: 2021.03.23 WUHAN HEADER BORON TECHNOLOGY CO LTD
  • US10958180B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A DC-DC converter includes an inductor, a rectifier module, a first bridge arm topology and a second bridge arm topology and a third bridge arm topology in parallel as well as a capacitor, wherein the first bridge arm topology includes a first switching tube and a fourth switching tube in series, the second bridge arm topology includes a second switching tube and a fifth switching tube in series, and the third bridge arm topology includes a third switching tube and a sixth switching tube in series; the inductor has one end connected to a coupling point formed by connecting the first switching tube and the fourth switching tube in series, and the other end connected to a coupling point formed by connecting the second switching tube and the fifth switching tube in series.