Multi-port Buck-Boost Converter Ripple Current Management
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Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional buck-boost converters have limitations, including the need for multiple converters when dealing with multiple loads, which increases system cost, and introduce additional ripple current that requires more robust and expensive components.
Innovation Solution
A buck-boost converter design with at least three input/output ports, multiple sets of switches, and two ripple current limiters, where each ripple current limiter is associated with a set of switches, and can be connected in series or parallel, with inductors, to manage power delivery and reduce ripple current.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple converters are used to handle multiple loads, then power delivery capability is improved, but system cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple converter functions into a single multi-port buck-boost converter that can handle multiple loads simultaneously. The converter integrates multiple input/output ports with shared magnetic components (inductors and transformers), allowing one converter to perform the work of multiple traditional converters, thereby reducing system cost while maintaining power delivery capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The converter is designed with universal multi-functionality to operate in various modes including buck mode, boost mode, and bi-directional power flow. The same converter structure can serve multiple loads with different power requirements by controlling the switching elements, eliminating the need for separate dedicated converters for each load.
2Device complexity
If traditional switch control is used, then converter operation is simple, but ripple current increases requiring more robust and expensive components
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary control mechanism that coordinates the switching of multiple switches to cancel out ripple currents. By using synchronized switching control where switches are activated in complementary sequences, the ripple currents generated by different switching operations interfere destructively, reducing the net ripple current in the output while maintaining relatively simple control circuitry.
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
This design reduces the need for multiple converters, lowers component costs by minimizing ripple current, and allows for efficient bi-directional power delivery to meet varying load requirements, using less expensive and less robust inductor components.
Implementation Method 1
each ripple current limiter comprises an inductor
Data Source
AI summary
An illustrative example embodiment of a buck-boost converter includes at least three input/output ports, at least three sets of switches, and at least two ripple current limiters. One of the sets of switches is associated with each of the input/output ports. Each of the ripple current limiters is associated with a respective one of the sets of switches between the associated set of switches and another one of the sets of switches.