Controllable Partial Power DC-DC Converter Topology Switching

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing partial power DC-DC converters lack a topology that is controllable between type I and type II, which is necessary for certain applications such as photovoltaic electric power generation and electromobility.

Innovation Solution

A partial power DC-DC converter with a controllable topology is developed, featuring a galvanically isolated DC-DC converter with bidirectional power and bipolar voltage capabilities, along with switches that allow selective connection to change the topology between type I, type II, and a bypass configuration.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If a fixed topology partial power DC-DC converter is used, then the converter structure is simple, but the converter cannot adapt to different voltage and power requirements in various applications

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveadaptability to different voltage and power requirementsVSAvoidconverter topology control complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements a dynamic topology control mechanism where the converter can switch between type I and type II configurations based on operating conditions. Two controllable switches (first switch connecting first DC voltage input to positive input, and second switch connecting positive output to positive input) enable real-time topology transformation, allowing the converter to adapt to different voltage and power requirements in photovoltaic systems and electromobility applications

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

2Loss of energy

If power is split between direct power link and DC-DC converter processing, then power losses and system size are reduced, but the converter topology must be precisely controlled to maintain optimal configuration

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvepower lossesVSAvoidtopology switching control
Core Design Contradiction:
Loss of energyVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The patent incorporates control logic that monitors operating conditions and automatically switches between type I and type II topologies to optimize power loss reduction. The controller determines the optimal topology based on real-time system state, ensuring that the power splitting between direct power link and converter processing remains efficient without manual intervention

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

Data Source

PatentUS12348122B2Partial power DC-DC converter with controllable topology
Publication Date: 2025.07.01 UNIV TECNICA FEDERICO SANTA MARIA
  • US12348122B2 patent drawing
  • US12348122B2 patent drawing
  • US12348122B2 patent drawing

AI summary

The invention provides a partial power DC-DC converter with controllable topology comprising: a galvanically isolated DC-DC converter having a positive input, a negative input, a positive output, and a negative output; a first DC voltage input electrically connected to said negative output of the DC-DC converter; an input reference; a first DC voltage output electrically connected to said positive output of the DC-DC converter; and an output reference electrically connected to said input reference and said negative input of the DC-DC converter; wherein said partial power DC-DC converter additionally comprises: a first switch arranged to selectively connect said first DC voltage input to said positive input of the DC-DC converter; and a second switch arranged to selectively connect said positive output of the DC-DC converter to said positive input of the DC-DC converter.