Rectifier Circuit Transient Current Reduction via Transformer Reverse Voltage
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing rectifier circuits face challenges in effectively reducing transient currents, which lead to energy losses due to the parasitic capacitance and reverse recovery currents in PN junction diodes, despite previous attempts to mitigate these issues.
Innovation Solution
A rectifier circuit design that includes a transformer with a primary and secondary winding, a switch element connected to the primary winding, and a second rectifier in parallel through the secondary winding, where the switch element is turned ON to allow a primary winding current and then turned OFF to generate a second rectifier current that applies an instantaneous reverse voltage, reducing transient currents by utilizing magnetic energy stored in the transformer.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of energy
If a conventional rectifier with PN junction is used, then the rectifier can block reverse voltage, but transient current flows during reverse recovery causing energy loss
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a transformer as an intermediary component between the rectifier and the load. The transformer's primary winding is connected in series with the rectifier, and the secondary winding provides an alternative current path. During reverse recovery, the transformer mediates the transient current by allowing it to circulate through the secondary winding and auxiliary rectifier, preventing it from flowing through the main rectifier and reducing energy loss.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent segments the current path by introducing separate windings and rectifiers for different current components. The primary winding handles the main rectifier current, while the secondary winding handles the transient current during reverse recovery. This segmentation allows the transient current to be isolated and managed separately, reducing its harmful effects on the main rectifier.
2Object-generated harmful factors
If a diode and transformer are connected in parallel to reduce transient current, then transient current is reduced, but the circuit complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The transformer in the patent serves multiple functions: it provides voltage transformation for the main rectifier current, creates an alternative path for transient current during reverse recovery, and enables the auxiliary rectifier to handle the transient current. This multi-functionality reduces the need for additional dedicated components, thereby limiting the increase in circuit complexity while still achieving transient current reduction.
3Ease of operation
If reverse voltage is applied to the rectifier, then the forward rectifier circuit current is blocked, but transient current flows during the transition
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies a reverse voltage to the primary winding before the main rectifier current needs to be blocked. This preliminary reverse voltage causes the transformer to generate a corresponding reverse voltage on the secondary winding, which preemptively blocks the transient current before it can flow through the main rectifier during the transition from forward to reverse bias.
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
This design significantly reduces transient currents and associated losses by generating the reverse voltage using magnetic energy, minimizing external transient current generation and enhancing the rectification efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
a primary winding current flows from the power source to the primary winding. When the switch element is turned OFF, a second rectifier current flows from the secondary winding to the second rectifier
Implementation Method 2
a second rectifier current flows from the secondary winding to the second rectifier
Data Source
AI summary
A transient current in a rectifier circuit is efficiently reduced. In a rectifier circuit, a first rectifier is provided between the first terminal and a second terminal. In the rectifier circuit, when a switch element is turned ON, a primary winding current flows from a power source to a primary winding in a transformer. When the switch element is turned OFF, a second rectifier current flows from a secondary winding in the transformer to a second rectifier. When the second rectifier current flows, a first reverse voltage is applied between the first terminal and the second terminal. The first reverse voltage is a reverse voltage applied instantaneously.