Reconfigurable DC-DC Power Circuit for Variable Bus Voltage Compatibility
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional portable power managers have limitations, including a fixed bus voltage that restricts compatibility with external DC power devices, leading to inefficiencies and increased cost and size due to the need for multiple converters, and are not effective in environments with varying device voltages like 48 VDC.
Innovation Solution
A reconfigurable power circuit with a one-way DC to DC power converter and multiple converter channel legs, along with configurable switches, allows for flexible configuration as an input, output, or bidirectional power channel, enabling operation at different bus voltages and efficient power management between external DC power devices.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a fixed bus voltage is used in conventional power managers, then the device can operate with a stable voltage level, but it restricts compatibility with external DC power devices having varying voltages (e.g., 48 VDC environments)
Solution Approach 1:
The power circuit is designed to be reconfigurable, allowing it to dynamically change its topology and operation mode based on the connected external device's voltage requirements. The circuit can switch between different configurations (e.g., buck converter mode for voltage reduction, boost converter mode for voltage increase, or direct pass-through mode) to accommodate varying bus voltages, thereby improving compatibility without requiring multiple fixed-voltage converters.
Solution Approach 2:
A single power circuit is designed to perform multiple functions by changing its configuration. The same circuit can operate as a buck converter, boost converter, or direct connection path depending on the external device's voltage requirements. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate dedicated converters for different voltage levels, reducing overall device complexity while maintaining broad compatibility.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple converters are used to support varying voltage environments, then compatibility with different voltage devices is improved, but cost and device size increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a universal power circuit that can adapt its function based on the external device's voltage requirements. By using a single reconfigurable circuit instead of multiple dedicated converters, the device footprint and weight are significantly reduced while maintaining the ability to support various voltage levels (e.g., 12V, 24V, 48V DC devices).
Solution Approach 2:
The power circuit incorporates dynamic reconfiguration capability through controllable switches and control logic that can change the circuit topology in real-time. This dynamic adaptation allows one circuit to replace multiple static converters, thereby reducing the overall device size and weight while preserving compatibility with varying voltage environments.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple converters are used to support varying voltage environments, then compatibility with different voltage devices is improved, but cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent designs a universal power circuit that can serve multiple voltage conversion functions through reconfiguration. This approach reduces the total component count (fewer converters, switches, and control circuits), leading to lower bill of materials costs, simplified assembly processes, and reduced manufacturing complexity, thereby decreasing overall production cost while maintaining compatibility with various voltage devices.
Solution Approach 2:
By implementing a dynamically reconfigurable power circuit instead of multiple fixed-function converters, the patent reduces the number of components that need to be manufactured, tested, and assembled. This simplification of the manufacturing process, combined with reduced component count, directly lowers production costs while achieving the same level of voltage compatibility.
4Ease of operation
If direct connect power channels are used for compatible devices, then power management is simplified, but efficiency decreases when voltage conversion is needed
Solution Approach 1:
The power circuit dynamically determines the optimal connection mode based on voltage compatibility. When an external device's voltage matches the bus voltage, the circuit automatically configures for direct connection (zero conversion loss). When voltage mismatch is detected, it seamlessly transitions to the appropriate conversion mode (buck or boost). This dynamic adaptation maintains operational simplicity while optimizing efficiency by avoiding unnecessary voltage conversion when not required.
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 reconfigurable power circuit enhances the ability to work with diverse external DC power devices by dynamically adjusting voltage and current, reducing costs and size while improving compatibility and efficiency across varying voltage environments.
Implementation Method 1
A one-way DC to DC power converter includes an input terminal for receiving input power at a first amplitude and an output terminal for delivering output power at a second amplitude
Data Source
AI summary
A reconfigurable power circuit (400) includes a single one-way DC to DC power converter (220, 221). The reconfigurable power circuit is configurable by a digital data processor as one of three different power channels (230, 232, and 234). Power channel (230) provides output power conversion. Power channel (232) provides input power conversion. Power channel (234) provides bi-directional power exchange without power conversion.