Parallel Power Converter Control for Adaptive Unit Switching
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional power supply devices lack a simple circuit configuration to dynamically adjust the number of operating power conversion units based on changing load conditions and power consumption, affecting efficiency, size, and noise levels.
Innovation Solution
A power supply device with multiple power conversion units, a common control unit, and operating number signal generating circuits that adjust the number of operating units based on inductor currents, allowing for efficient load current calculation and adaptive operation mode switching.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If the number of power conversion units is increased to handle varying load conditions, then the power supply device can adapt to different power consumption levels, but the circuit configuration becomes complex
Solution Approach 1:
The power conversion system is divided into multiple independent power conversion units (first, second, third, and fourth units), each capable of operating independently. This segmentation allows the system to adapt to varying load conditions by selectively activating the required number of units, rather than requiring a single complex reconfigurable circuit.
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically adjusts the number of operating power conversion units based on load conditions through the operating number signal generating circuit. This circuit generates signals indicating whether one or two power conversion units should operate, enabling the system to transition between different operational states (1 unit or 2 units) to match power consumption demands.
2Power
If all power conversion units operate continuously to ensure sufficient power supply, then the power supply capacity is maintained, but the system size increases
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of continuously operating all power conversion units, the system employs partial action by selectively activating only the necessary number of units (one or two) based on actual load requirements. The operating number signal generating circuit determines whether full power capacity is needed or if reduced capacity suffices, allowing the system to maintain adequate power supply while minimizing the active component count.
3Power
If all power conversion units operate continuously to ensure sufficient power supply, then the power supply capacity is maintained, but noise levels increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system implements periodic assessment of load conditions through the operating number signal generating circuit, which continuously monitors power consumption and dynamically adjusts the number of operating units. This periodic adaptation allows the system to reduce the number of active units during low-demand periods, thereby reducing noise generation while maintaining adequate power capacity when needed.
Data Source
AI summary
A plurality of power conversion units each include an inductor, a switching circuit, and a PWM control IC. An MPU outputs control signals to the plurality of power conversion units. Output parts of the plurality of power conversion units are connected to an output terminal in a parallel manner. Operating number signal generating circuits of feedback signal generating circuits generate an operating number signal Sop on the basis of individual current signals based on inductor currents in the plurality of power conversion units, and output the operating number signal to the MPU. The MPU sets operations of the plurality of power conversion units on the basis of the operating number signal, and outputs the control signals including the settings of the operations of the power conversion units.