Piezoelectric Power Converter Trajectory Control for Efficiency
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Solution Overview
Problem
Piezoelectric transformer-based power converters have low power conversion efficiency, typically around 30%, which is not sufficient for practical applications.
Innovation Solution
A piezoelectric power converter with trajectory control is introduced, which includes an input bridge, a piezoelectric transformer, and an output bridge, all controlled by a trajectory controller that analyzes signals from the bridges and the piezoelectric transformer to optimize power transfer.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Weight of stationary object
If a piezoelectric transformer is used to replace the magnetic transformer, then the size and weight of the power converter are reduced, but the power conversion efficiency deteriorates to around 30%
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamic trajectory control to the switching of power transistors in the input and output bridges. The controller adjusts the switching trajectories in real-time to optimize power transfer through the piezoelectric transformer, dynamically compensating for its inefficiencies and achieving over 80% power conversion efficiency while maintaining the lightweight design
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the operating parameters of the piezoelectric transformer by implementing trajectory control that modifies the voltage and current waveforms. By optimizing the switching patterns and timing of the power transistors, the system alters the electrical parameters to match the piezoelectric material's resonant characteristics, thereby improving efficiency
2Volume of stationary object
If a piezoelectric transformer is used to replace the magnetic transformer, then the volume of the power converter is reduced, but the power conversion efficiency deteriorates to around 30%
Solution Approach 1:
The trajectory controller dynamically adjusts the switching patterns of power transistors to optimize power transfer through the compact piezoelectric transformer. This dynamic control compensates for the piezoelectric material's inherent inefficiencies, achieving over 80% efficiency in the reduced-volume converter
Solution Approach 2:
By implementing trajectory control, the system changes the electrical operating parameters to match the piezoelectric transformer's resonant frequency and impedance characteristics. This optimization enables efficient power conversion in the compact design
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 implementation of trajectory control in the piezoelectric power converter significantly improves the power conversion efficiency to at least 80%, making it more viable for use in applications such as solar power generation systems.
Implementation Method 1
A piezoelectric transformer operates by converting the input power into a physical change in the piezoelectric material, i.e., the physical size of the material expands and contracts
Implementation Method 2
These physical changes are transferred from one portion of the material to another portion such that the changes are amplified
Data Source
AI summary
A method and apparatus for converting power comprising an input bridge having an input adapted for coupling to a DC source, a piezoelectric transformer having an input coupled to an output of the input bridge, and an output bridge having an input coupled to an output of the piezoelectric transformer and an output adapted to couple to a load. A trajectory controller, coupled to the input bridge and output bridge, (1) measures current and voltage in the input bridge, the output bridge or both, (2) measures a current into or out of the piezoelectric transformer, (3) determines switch timing for control signals for the input bridge and output bridge based upon the measured current and/or voltage, and (4) applies the control signals to the input bridge and output bridge.