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 regular and quasi-resonant modes to optimize the conversion process, utilizing multiple power stages and switching modes such as flyback, interleaved, and quasi-resonant modes based on input voltage and output current conditions to enhance efficiency.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Loss of energy

If traditional power conversion circuits are used to convert DC to AC or vice versa, then the conversion can be performed, but the efficiency is 90% or less resulting in significant energy loss

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveenergy lossVSAvoidconversion efficiency
Core Design Contradiction:
Loss of energyVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The system dynamically switches between different power conversion modes (flyback, interleaved, quasi-resonant) based on real-time operating conditions such as input voltage and output current. This dynamic adaptation allows the circuit to operate at optimal efficiency points across varying load conditions, directly addressing the energy loss problem by preventing operation in inefficient regimes.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The invention changes operational parameters by transitioning between distinct conversion modes with different characteristics. The controller monitors operating conditions and adjusts the conversion mode accordingly, effectively changing the system's operational parameters to maintain high efficiency across different input voltage and output current conditions, thereby reducing energy loss.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

2Productivity

If multiple power stages and switching modes are implemented to improve efficiency, then conversion efficiency improves, but the device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveconversion efficiencyVSAvoidcircuit complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The power conversion circuit is designed with multiple power stages that can operate in different modes (flyback, interleaved, quasi-resonant), making the same hardware circuit perform multiple functions. The controller selects the appropriate mode based on operating conditions, allowing a single circuit design to handle various efficiency requirements without needing separate dedicated circuits for each operating condition.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The system uses dynamic mode selection to manage complexity. Rather than having permanently active complex circuitry for all modes, the controller dynamically activates only the necessary power stages and switching modes required for current operating conditions, effectively managing device complexity while maintaining high efficiency when needed.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Data Source

PatentUS9461552B2Method and apparatus for power conversion
Publication Date: 2016.10.04 ENPHASE ENERGY INC
  • US9461552B2 patent drawing
  • US9461552B2 patent drawing
  • US9461552B2 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 regular mode and a quasi-resonant mode for operating the power conversion circuit to convert the first power to the second power.