Power Control Module for Isolated Converter Feedback
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing power converter control systems face challenges in efficiently regulating output voltage and current, especially in isolated converters where feedback control signals are not directly proportional to input power, leading to inefficiencies and difficulties in managing power levels across a wide range of loads.
Innovation Solution
The introduction of a Power Control Module (PCM) that generates a modified control signal proportional to the input power by using feedback control signals, allowing for improved regulation of output voltage or current, and enabling efficient power management through a closed-loop control system.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a feedback control system is used in isolated converters, then output voltage or current regulation is achieved, but the control signal is not directly proportional to input power, leading to inefficiencies in power management
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a Power Control Module (PCM) as an intermediary component that receives the feedback control signal and generates a modified control signal proportional to input power. The PCM acts as a mediator between the feedback control system and the power stage, enabling accurate power measurement without requiring direct complex power sensing circuitry. The PCM processes the feedback signal through mathematical operations (multiplication by voltage signal, integration) to derive input power information.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces direct mechanical/electrical power measurement methods with a signal processing approach. Instead of using complex power measurement circuits or sensors to directly measure input power, the system uses the existing feedback control signal (which already contains power information) and processes it through the PCM using mathematical operations. This substitution simplifies the overall measurement system while maintaining accuracy.
2Productivity
If the control signal is made proportional to input power, then power management efficiency is improved, but additional circuitry is required to process feedback signals
Solution Approach 1:
The Power Control Module (PCM) serves multiple functions within a single integrated circuit: it receives the feedback control signal, multiplies it by the input voltage signal to generate a power-proportional signal, integrates this signal to produce the modified control signal, and outputs this signal for power stage control. This multi-functionality consolidates what could be separate components into one unit, improving power management efficiency while minimizing the increase in overall system complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses the existing feedback control signal (already present in the converter for output regulation) and repurposes it for power measurement and management functions. The feedback signal, which inherently contains information about the power being converted, is reused by the PCM to generate the power-proportional control signal, eliminating the need for separate power sensing circuits and reducing overall system complexity.
3Reliability
If isolated converter topology is used, then galvanic isolation is achieved, but feedback control signals cannot directly represent input power levels
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a feedback-based approach where the feedback control signal (which crosses the galvanic isolation barrier) is processed by the PCM to recover input power information. The PCM multiplies the feedback control signal by the input voltage signal and integrates the result to generate a modified control signal that is proportional to input power. This feedback mechanism allows the system to maintain galvanic isolation while recovering complete power information through mathematical processing of the isolated feedback signal.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces direct electrical coupling for power information transfer with a signal processing substitution. Instead of using a direct electrical connection that would compromise galvanic isolation, the system uses the isolated feedback control signal and processes it through the PCM using mathematical operations (multiplication and integration) to derive input power information. This substitution maintains isolation while preserving information.
Data Source
AI summary
A control circuit for an electronic converter having a power stage controls the operation of a power stage as a function of a feedback control signal that indicates an input power provided to the power stage. The control circuit generates a digital reference signal as a function of the feedback control signal and a first signal based on an input voltage supplied to the power stage. The control circuit generates a modified control signal as a function of the digital reference signal and a second signal based on an input current supplied to the power stage.