Reconfigurable DC-DC Power Circuit for Multi-Voltage Bus Management
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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 multiple converters are used to support varying voltages, then adaptability to different voltage levels is improved, but device complexity and size increase
Solution Approach 1:
A single power converter circuit is designed to perform multiple functions by reconfiguring its topology through switch arrangements. The same circuit can operate in different modes (e.g., buck, boost, or bypass mode) to support various voltage levels, eliminating the need for multiple dedicated converters and reducing overall system complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention merges multiple potential converter functions into a single reconfigurable power circuit. By combining the capabilities of what would otherwise require separate converters into one unified circuit with adjustable topology, the system achieves multi-voltage support while minimizing the number of physical components.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple converters are used to support varying voltages, then adaptability to different voltage levels is improved, but cost and size increase
Solution Approach 1:
The reconfigurable power circuit serves multiple voltage support functions within a single physical footprint. By making the circuit universal and capable of operating in different modes, the design avoids the need for multiple separate converter units, thereby reducing the overall size and weight of the power manager while maintaining adaptability to varying voltages.
3Ease of operation
If direct connect power channels are used, then ease of operation is improved, but adaptability to different voltage levels deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The power connection system transitions from static direct-connect channels to dynamic reconfigurable channels. Switches can be closed or opened to create direct connect paths when voltage levels match or to insert voltage conversion paths when they don't, providing both operational simplicity and voltage level adaptability through dynamic configuration.
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.