Resonant Buck Power Converter with Zero Current Switching
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional power conversion technologies face inefficiencies and component stress due to non-zero current switching, limited step-down ratios, and higher component values, which are not well-suited for flexible and cost-effective power conversion for electronic devices.
Innovation Solution
A power conversion apparatus utilizing a resonant and buck portion energy transfer cycle with zero current switching, employing a first capacitor and inductor in resonance, and electronic switches to efficiently transfer energy from a power source to a load, allowing for high step-down ratios and reduced component values.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of energy
If conventional power conversion technologies are used, then power conversion can be achieved, but efficiency is reduced due to non-zero current switching and component stress
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements periodic switching of electronic switches synchronized with the resonant oscillation cycle of the LC circuit. The switches are turned on and off at specific phases of the resonant cycle, creating periodic action that enables zero current switching. This periodic switching pattern allows the circuit to operate in distinct phases (resonant phase and buck phase) that collectively achieve efficient power conversion while eliminating component stress from non-zero current switching.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the operating parameters of the power conversion circuit by introducing resonant frequency operation. The switching frequency is matched to the resonant frequency of the LC circuit, and the duty cycle is adjusted to control energy transfer during different phases. This parameter change enables the circuit to operate at resonance, achieving zero current switching and improved efficiency.
2Adaptability or versatility
If conventional step-down conversion is used, then voltage reduction can be achieved, but the step-down ratio is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the power conversion process into two distinct phases: a resonant phase for energy storage and transfer, and a buck phase for voltage reduction. This segmentation allows each phase to perform its specific function optimally, enabling extended step-down ratios while keeping the overall converter structure relatively simple through the use of a single LC resonant circuit and two electronic switches.
3Ease of manufacture
If conventional power conversion is used, then power conversion can be achieved, but component values are higher increasing cost and size
Solution Approach 1:
The patent exploits electrical resonance (analogous to mechanical vibration) in the LC circuit to achieve efficient energy transfer. By operating at the resonant frequency of the circuit, the patent enables energy oscillation between the inductor and capacitor with minimal losses. This resonant operation allows for smaller component values compared to conventional non-resonant converters, reducing both cost and size while maintaining power conversion capability.
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 approach achieves high power conversion efficiency with zero current switching, reduced component costs and sizes, and unity power factor, making it suitable for a wide range of electronic devices and power sources.
Implementation Method 1
a first inductor in resonance with the first capacitor
Implementation Method 2
a second energy may be stored in magnetic fields of the inductor
Data Source
AI summary
Methods, apparatuses, computer program products, and computer readable media are disclosed herein. In one aspect, an apparatus includes a first capacitor, a first inductor in resonance with the first capacitor, a first electronic switch and a second electronic switch. The first electronic switch may be configured to cause, when the first electronic switch is closed, the first capacitor to store a first energy, and to cause a second energy to be stored in magnetic fields of the inductor. The second energy may be transferred to a load during a resonant portion of an energy transfer cycle. The apparatus may further include a second electronic switch configured to cause the stored first energy in the first capacitor to be transferred at least in part to the magnetic fields of the inductor, and then transferred to the load during a buck portion of the energy transfer cycle.