Power Converter PID Tuning With Interval-Based Feedback Updates

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing electric power converters face challenges in efficiently adjusting regulator parameters, particularly due to component aging, which affects performance and energy efficiency, as traditional methods require interruptions for tuning and are sensitive to minor design changes.

Innovation Solution

The implementation of a parameter predictor using reinforcement learning with a performance feedback signal generator allows for updating PID regulator parameters during operation, triggered by deviation detection, reducing the need for continuous tuning and minimizing energy consumption by scheduling updates in intervals.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If traditional regulator parameter adjustment methods are used, then the power converter can be tuned for optimal performance, but the converter requires operational interruptions and is sensitive to component aging

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveperformance stabilityVSAvoidtuning interruption time
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The system performs preliminary parameter optimization by storing multiple pre-calculated regulator parameter sets corresponding to different operating conditions and component aging states. During operation, the appropriate pre-optimized parameter set is selected and applied without interrupting the converter, thus achieving optimal performance while avoiding tuning interruptions.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The system dynamically adapts regulator parameters based on real-time detection of operating conditions and component aging indicators. The parameter selection and adjustment process is made dynamic rather than static, allowing the converter to automatically respond to changing conditions without operational interruptions, thereby maintaining reliability while eliminating time loss.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

2Reliability

If continuous parameter tuning is performed to maintain optimal performance, then performance is optimized, but energy consumption increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveperformance optimizationVSAvoidtuning energy consumption
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSUse of energy by moving object

Solution Approach 1:

Instead of continuous parameter tuning, the system implements periodic parameter updates based on detected operating conditions and component aging. The regulator parameters are adjusted at specific intervals or when triggering conditions are met, rather than continuously, thereby maintaining performance optimization while significantly reducing the energy consumption associated with frequent tuning operations.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #19Periodic action

Solution Approach 2:

The system employs feedback mechanisms to monitor operating conditions, output performance, and component aging indicators. Based on this feedback, parameter adjustments are made only when necessary to maintain optimal performance. This feedback-driven approach ensures performance optimization while minimizing unnecessary tuning operations and associated energy consumption.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

3Reliability

If regulator parameters are adjusted frequently to account for component aging, then performance is maintained, but the complexity of the control system increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveperformance maintenanceVSAvoidcontrol system complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The system performs preliminary analysis and calculation of optimal regulator parameters during the design phase or initial operation, storing multiple pre-optimized parameter sets in memory. During subsequent operation, the system simply retrieves and applies the appropriate pre-calculated parameter set based on detected conditions, thereby maintaining performance despite component aging without significantly increasing control system complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The system manages complexity by focusing parameter adjustments on key regulator parameters that have the most significant impact on performance. Rather than continuously adjusting all parameters, the system identifies and adjusts only the critical parameters that need modification due to component aging, thereby maintaining performance while limiting the increase in control system complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

4Stability of the object's composition

If traditional PID regulator parameters are used, then the converter operates stably, but it is sensitive to minor changes in design and component values

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveoperational stabilityVSAvoiddesign sensitivity
Core Design Contradiction:
Stability of the object's compositionVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The system performs preliminary optimization of PID regulator parameters for multiple different design configurations and component value combinations before actual operation. These pre-optimized parameter sets are stored in memory. When the converter operates, the system selects the appropriate pre-optimized parameter set that matches the actual design and component values, thereby ensuring operational stability while reducing sensitivity to design variations and component tolerances.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Data Source

PatentEP3754457B1Electric power converter
Publication Date: 2025.01.01 INFINEON TECH AUSTRIA AG
  • EP3754457B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP3754457B1 patent drawingFigure 2
  • EP3754457B1 patent drawingFigure 3

AI summary

The invention relates to an electric switch-mode power converter comprising a parameter predictor for predicting and updating at least one regulator parameter of a regulator controlling a switching device of the converter, further comprising a performance feedback signal generator for providing a performance feedback signal indicative of a performance of the conversion operation, wherein the parameter predictor is configured to predict an update of the regulator parameter based on the performance feedback signal and during update intervals, the intervals being during the power conversion operation and being separated by pauses without update.