Power Conversion Circuit Dynamic Mode Selection

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Solution Overview

Problem

Power conversion circuits that convert DC to AC or vice versa are notoriously inefficient, typically achieving efficiencies of 90% or less, necessitating a method and apparatus for improved power conversion.

Innovation Solution

A power conversion circuit with a controller that dynamically selects between non-interleaved and interleaved modes to optimize the conversion process, utilizing flyback modes such as regular, quasi-resonant, and interleaved flyback modes based on input voltage and output current conditions, allowing for efficient conversion of DC to AC power.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Loss of energy

If a conventional power conversion circuit is used to convert DC to AC or vice versa, then the conversion can be performed, but the efficiency is low (90% or less)

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvepower conversion efficiencyVSAvoidcircuit complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Loss of energyVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements dynamic mode selection between non-interleaved and interleaved operation modes based on real-time operating conditions. The controller dynamically switches between regular flyback mode, quasi-resonant flyback mode, and interleaved flyback mode to optimize efficiency across different power levels and voltage conditions, thereby resolving the contradiction between maintaining simplicity and improving efficiency

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

2Loss of energy

If dynamic mode selection is implemented to optimize power conversion efficiency, then efficiency improves, but control complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvepower conversion efficiencyVSAvoidcontroller complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Loss of energyVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent changes operational parameters dynamically by switching between different flyback modes based on voltage and current conditions. The controller monitors operating parameters and adjusts the conversion mode accordingly, implementing parameter changes to optimize efficiency while managing control complexity through condition-based decision logic

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

3Productivity

If interleaved mode is used for power conversion, then efficiency improves under certain conditions, but the circuit operation becomes more complex

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvepower conversion efficiencyVSAvoidcircuit operation simplicity
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The patent makes the circuit operation dynamic by enabling interleaved mode only when operating conditions warrant the efficiency benefits. The controller dynamically selects between simple non-interleaved operation and complex interleaved operation based on real-time voltage and current measurements, optimizing productivity while managing operational complexity

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Data Source

PatentUS9436198B2Method and apparatus for power conversion
Publication Date: 2016.09.06 ENPHASE ENERGY INC
  • US9436198B2 patent drawing
  • US9436198B2 patent drawing
  • US9436198B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A method and apparatus for converting a first power to a second power. In one embodiment the apparatus comprises a power conversion circuit for receiving the first power; and a controller, coupled to the power conversion circuit, for dynamically selecting between a non-interleaved mode and an interleaved mode for operating the power conversion circuit to convert the first power to the second power.