Parallel Modular Power Converters for Wide Load Efficiency
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional magnetic-type power converters suffer from inefficiencies due to power losses at low and high loads, with traditional transformers peaking at around 50% efficiency at rated load and dropping off at extremes, primarily due to control circuitry losses and resistive losses.
Innovation Solution
A power conversion system employing a controller to manage an array of power converters, optimizing their operation by selecting the appropriate number and frequency to maintain peak efficiency, and optionally bypassing the controller to discharge stored power directly to the load when necessary.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of energy
If conventional magnetic-type power converters are used, then power conversion function is provided, but efficiency drops at low and high load conditions
Solution Approach 1:
The system divides the power conversion function into multiple parallel modular converters instead of using a single converter. Each modular converter operates independently and can be individually controlled to maintain optimal efficiency points, allowing the system to segment the total power load into efficient operating portions across multiple units.
Solution Approach 2:
The control system dynamically adjusts the operating state of each modular converter based on real-time load conditions. By continuously monitoring power demands and selectively activating or deactivating individual converters, the system adapts to varying load requirements while maintaining each active converter within its optimal efficiency range.
2Power
If the number of power converters is increased to handle higher power levels, then power capacity increases, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses identical modular converter units that can be replicated to scale power capacity. Each module has the same standardized interface and control protocol, allowing linear scaling of power capacity without proportionally increasing system complexity. The modular architecture enables plug-and-play expansion where additional units are simply added in parallel.
Solution Approach 2:
Each modular converter is designed as a universal unit capable of operating independently or in combination with other identical units. The standardized design allows any number of these universal modules to be combined to meet different power requirements, simplifying system design and control while providing scalable power capacity.
3Loss of energy
If control circuitry is added to optimize power converter operation, then efficiency is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Each modular converter includes integrated control circuitry that autonomously manages its own operation. The converters self-regulate their switching frequencies, duty cycles, and operational states based on local sensing and simple control logic, eliminating the need for complex centralized control while maintaining high efficiency through adaptive operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The control system employs feedback mechanisms where each converter monitors its own operating parameters and adjusts accordingly. By implementing local feedback loops within each modular unit, the system achieves efficient adaptive control without requiring complex inter-converter communication or centralized management, thereby improving efficiency while limiting complexity growth.
Data Source
AI summary
A system for controlling a plurality of power converters in a power system so as to turn each of the plurality of power converters into an ON state or an OFF state as a function of a sensed input power and a sensed output power such that one or more of the plurality of power converters in the ON state are operating in an optimal power efficiency range.