Parallel Power Converter Control for Load-Dependent Efficiency
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing power converters experience efficiency losses due to conduction and switching losses in power semiconductors, leading to decreased efficiency when converting power for electronic devices with constant voltage requirements.
Innovation Solution
A power converter system comprising multiple power conversion modules operating in parallel, with a controller that manages the on/off states and power increments of each module to optimize efficiency by setting upper current limits and performing pulse skip control.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of energy
If a single power conversion module is used, then the device complexity is low, but the power conversion efficiency decreases due to conduction and switching losses
Solution Approach 1:
The power conversion system is divided into multiple independent power conversion modules (first module, second module, etc.), each capable of operating autonomously. This segmentation allows the system to distribute the power conversion load across multiple modules, reducing the conduction and switching losses that would occur in a single module handling the entire load.
Solution Approach 2:
Multiple power conversion modules are combined in parallel to form a unified power conversion system. The controller coordinates these modules to work together, merging their output to supply the load. This combining approach maintains the efficiency benefits of individual module operation while achieving the required total power output.
2Loss of energy
If multiple power conversion modules are operated in parallel, then the power conversion efficiency is improved, but the control complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The controller implements feedback control by monitoring the output current of each power conversion module and adjusting their operation accordingly. When the output current of a module reaches its upper current limit, the controller receives this feedback and responds by turning off that module and activating another module, thereby maintaining optimal efficiency while managing control complexity through systematic feedback mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The controller dynamically adjusts the on/off states of multiple power conversion modules based on real-time operating conditions. This dynamic control allows the system to adapt to varying load requirements while maintaining optimal efficiency, managing complexity through adaptive rather than static control strategies.
3Power
If the output current of a power conversion module is increased, then the power supply capability is improved, but the conduction and switching losses increase
Solution Approach 1:
The total power supply requirement is segmented across multiple modules, each operating at optimized current levels. Instead of one module supplying high current with associated high losses, multiple modules share the load, each operating at lower, more efficient current levels while collectively meeting the total power demand.
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure provides for sequentially turning on a plurality of power conversion modules according to the magnitude of load power at the time of driving the power conversion modules, operating power conversion modules which have already been turned on in an optimum efficiency interval, and providing increased load power through a power conversion module which has been newly turned on.