Parallel E-Class Inverter Phase Synchronization Circuit
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional RF power amplifiers face limitations in size and efficiency due to the need for large semiconductor switches and power combining circuits, which result in power loss and difficulty in achieving complete in-phase operation among E-class amplifiers.
Innovation Solution
A power amplifier circuit design that connects multiple E-class inverters in parallel through a phase-controlled matching circuit with variable capacitors and inductors, using a phase adjusting circuit to synchronize the operation of E-class amplifiers and eliminate the need for external power combining circuits, thereby reducing element size and increasing output power.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Power
If multiple E-class amplifiers are connected in parallel to increase output power, then the output power is improved, but the phase synchronization becomes difficult to achieve
Solution Approach 1:
A phase adjusting circuit is introduced as an intermediary component between the multiple E-class amplifiers. This circuit includes variable capacitors connected in parallel with each amplifier output, allowing independent phase adjustment of each amplifier's output signal. By tuning the capacitance values, the phase of each amplifier can be synchronized with the others, solving the phase synchronization difficulty while maintaining high output power capability.
2Power
If large semiconductor switches are used to generate large power, then the output power is improved, but the device size increases
Solution Approach 1:
The power amplifier system is segmented into multiple smaller E-class amplifier units connected in parallel. Each unit uses smaller semiconductor switches that can operate at higher frequencies. By dividing the total power requirement among multiple units, the individual switch size is reduced while the aggregate output power matches the requirement of conventional single-stage amplifiers.
Solution Approach 2:
The system employs dynamic phase adjustment capabilities through variable capacitors in the phase adjusting circuit. This allows the amplifier to adaptively synchronize the phase of each parallel unit's output, enabling flexible operation and optimal power combination while maintaining compact dimensions through high-frequency switching.
3Power
If external power combining circuits are used to combine amplifier outputs, then the output power is improved, but the power loss increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses self-service impedance matching and phase adjustment at each amplifier output through the phase adjusting circuit. Each amplifier unit independently adjusts its own phase and impedance matching using variable capacitors, eliminating the need for separate external power combining circuits. This reduces the number of additional components and minimizes power loss that would occur in external combining networks.
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 enables a compact, high-efficiency power amplifier that generates significant output power without the need for external combining circuits, reducing power loss and allowing for efficient wireless power supply applications.
Implementation Method 1
a resonant type power supply circuit, which has a switching element and generates the AC output power from the DC power
Data Source
AI summary
In each E-class inverter, an internal voltage detection circuit detects an internal voltage of a resonant type power supply circuit or a matching circuit and adjusts a phase of a driving signal of a MOSFET based on a detected voltage. It is thus possible to match a phase of a current voltage of a sine waveform of each inverter and combine power highly efficiently. Since power combining is performed highly efficiently without using a variable capacitor and variable inductor, it is possible to suppress upsizing of elements and achieve downsizing of a power amplifier circuit.