Multi-mode Power Conversion Circuit Reducing Module Count
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing power conversion systems for battery charging require multiple modules, leading to high costs and large volumes due to redundant architectures, especially when supporting multiple operating modes and efficient DC/DC conversion for varying input voltages.
Innovation Solution
A power conversion circuit and system that includes two power conversion modules with series-connected power switch transistors, energy storage capacitors, and filter inductors, allowing for controlled voltage conversion across multiple ports to achieve various conversion ratios with fewer external components and reduced PCB area.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple DC/DC conversion modules and buck-boost charging modules are used to support comprehensive charging, then charging versatility and efficiency are improved, but device complexity and volume increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a universal charging architecture where a single DC/DC conversion module can operate in multiple modes (buck, boost, buck-boost) depending on the charging requirements. The module includes switch transistors that can be configured in different arrangements to achieve various voltage conversion ratios, allowing one module to replace what would traditionally require multiple specialized modules. This multi-functional design maintains comprehensive charging support while reducing the total number of components.
2Loss of energy
If cascaded charge pump converters are used for voltage conversion, then power loss is reduced, but device complexity and component count increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple charge pump conversion stages into a single integrated DC/DC conversion module. Instead of using separate cascaded converters for different voltage ratios, the invention merges the conversion functionality into one module that can dynamically adjust its operation. The switch transistors and energy storage elements are integrated in a unified circuit topology that achieves efficient voltage conversion across multiple operating points without requiring multiple discrete converter stages.
3Reliability
If additional charging modules are added for pre-charging and CV-mode charging, then charging completeness is improved, but cost and volume increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs dynamic control of the DC/DC conversion module to handle different charging phases (pre-charging, constant current, constant voltage) within the same hardware architecture. The switch transistors are controlled with time-varying duty cycles and switching sequences that adapt to the charging battery's state. This dynamic operation allows a single module to provide the functionality that would traditionally require multiple dedicated charging circuits, maintaining complete charging cycle support while reducing component count.
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 high-frequency, high-efficiency operation with reduced redundancy, supporting multiple conversion modes and voltage ratios while minimizing component count and PCB area, thus lowering costs and improving efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
a first filter inductor, a second filter inductor... connected to power switch transistors... for controlled voltage conversion
Implementation Method 2
a first energy storage capacitor, a second energy storage capacitor... connected between power switch transistors
Data Source
AI summary
An apparatus includes a first group of switches connected in series, a second group of switches connected in series, a first flying capacitor between a first common node and a third common node of the first group of switches, a second flying capacitor between a first common node and a third common node of the second group of switches, wherein the first group of switches and the second group of switches are configured such that the apparatus operates in one of three operating modes including a bypass operating mode, a hybrid operating mode and a boost/buck operating mode.