Resonant Converter Adaptive Minimum Frequency for Wider Output Range

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Solution Overview

Problem

Resonant converters face limitations in maintaining inductive operation across a wide range of input and output conditions, leading to restricted output voltage range and increased device requirements, especially for small Q values, which results in higher costs.

Innovation Solution

Implementing an adaptive minimum switching frequency control system for resonant converters that adjusts the minimum frequency based on output voltage, using a control circuit with a minimum frequency circuit and control unit to select one of multiple preset frequency values based on output characteristics.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If a fixed minimum switching frequency is set to maintain inductive operation region, then Zero Voltage Switching (ZVS) is achieved, but the maximum available output voltage is limited for resonant converters with smaller Q values

Engineering Contradiction:
ImproveZVS operationVSAvoidoutput voltage range
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements a dynamic minimum switching frequency that adapts based on the quality factor Q and operating conditions. Instead of using a fixed minimum frequency, the system adjusts the minimum frequency threshold dynamically to match the resonant converter's actual performance characteristics, allowing the system to maintain ZVS while achieving higher output voltages for small Q values.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The patent changes the frequency parameter adaptively based on Q value and operating conditions. By modifying the minimum frequency threshold as a variable parameter rather than a fixed constant, the system optimizes both ZVS achievement and output voltage capability across different operating scenarios.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

2Adaptability or versatility

If higher input voltage is used to expand output voltage range for gain curve with small Q, then output voltage range is expanded, but device requirements and cost increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveoutput voltage rangeVSAvoiddevice requirements
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

Instead of increasing input voltage to expand output range, the patent changes the operating frequency parameter to achieve higher output voltages. By operating at optimized frequencies that account for small Q values, the system expands output voltage capability without requiring higher input voltage or more demanding device specifications.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

Solution Approach 2:

The patent uses gain curve analysis and simulation data to determine optimal operating parameters without requiring physical prototypes or expensive high-voltage devices. The theoretical modeling allows virtual testing and optimization before implementation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #26Copying

3Reliability

If a fixed minimum switching frequency is set, then inductive operation region is maintained, but the frequency cannot be optimized for different output voltage requirements

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveinductive operationVSAvoidoutput voltage adjustment capability
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The system dynamically adjusts the minimum switching frequency based on real-time operating conditions and Q value measurements. This dynamic adaptation allows the system to maintain inductive operation while optimizing frequency selection for different output voltage requirements, improving both reliability and productivity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The patent implements feedback mechanisms that monitor operating conditions and Q value, using this information to adjust the minimum frequency threshold. This closed-loop control ensures inductive operation is maintained while allowing frequency optimization for different output requirements.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

Data Source

PatentUS12418237B2Power system with adaptive minimum frequency
Publication Date: 2025.09.16 MONOLITHIC POWER SYSTEMS INC
  • US12418237B2 patent drawing
  • US12418237B2 patent drawing
  • US12418237B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A power system with adaptive minimum frequency is disclosed. The power system includes a resonant converter and a control circuit. Under the control of the control circuit, the resonant converter works with an adaptive minimum frequency. The value of the adaptive minimum frequency is preset and is selected by an equivalent resistance or an output voltage of the resonant converter.