Resonant DC/DC Converter Topology Using Lower-Voltage Switches
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing DC/DC power converters with resonant circuits face high costs and reduced efficiency due to the need for high-voltage semiconductor switches, which are costly and inefficient.
Innovation Solution
The proposed DC/DC power converter topology includes two switching circuits and two capacitor units connected in series, with a resonant circuit integrated into the system. This configuration allows for lower voltage semiconductor switches and reduces the complexity and cost of the converter.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Power
If high-voltage semiconductor switches are used in existing DC/DC power converters with resonant circuits, then voltage conversion capability is achieved, but cost increases and efficiency decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The power converter circuit is divided into multiple switching circuits connected in series, where each switching circuit handles a portion of the total voltage. This segmentation allows the use of lower-voltage switches in each segment rather than requiring a single high-voltage switch, thereby improving efficiency while maintaining the overall voltage conversion capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a temporal dimension to voltage handling by sequentially activating different switching circuits. Each switching circuit operates at a lower voltage level but contributes to the overall high-voltage conversion through coordinated switching, effectively distributing the voltage stress across multiple lower-voltage components over time.
2Power
If high-voltage semiconductor switches are used in existing DC/DC power converters, then voltage conversion is achieved, but manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
By segmenting the power converter into multiple switching circuits with lower-voltage switches, the patent reduces the cost of individual semiconductor components. Lower-voltage switches are generally less expensive than high-voltage switches, and this segmentation strategy allows the system to achieve high-voltage conversion while using more affordable components.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs multiple lower-voltage switching circuits that can be manufactured more cheaply than a single high-voltage switch. While each individual switch operates for shorter periods due to sequential activation, their lower cost and easier manufacturability compensate for the reduced individual duty cycle.
3Manufacturing precision
If complex switching control is implemented in existing DC/DC power converters, then precise voltage conversion is achieved, but control circuitry complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The control function is segmented across multiple switching circuits, with each circuit having its own simplified control logic. Rather than requiring a single complex controller to manage high-voltage switching, the system uses multiple simpler controllers that each manage lower-voltage switching, reducing individual control circuitry complexity while maintaining overall precision.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent adds a temporal dimension to the control strategy by sequentially activating switching circuits rather than simultaneously managing all switches. This time-based approach simplifies control logic by reducing the number of switches that need to be controlled at any given moment, while still achieving precise voltage conversion through coordinated switching sequences.
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 new topology achieves improved efficiency and reduced costs by allowing the use of lower voltage switches and simplifying the control circuitry, while maintaining high efficiency and effective voltage conversion.
Implementation Method 1
a resonant circuit with a resonant capacitor Cr and a resonant inductor Lr for converting a first DC voltage Vin (input voltage) at input terminals IN1 and IN2 to a second DC voltage Vout (output voltage)
Data Source
AI summary
A DC/DC power converter for converting voltage at an input to a voltage at an output of the DC/DC power converter is provided, wherein the output voltage is a multiple of the input voltage. The DC/DC power converter comprises two switching circuits electrically connected in series, two capacitor units electrically connected in series, and a resonant circuit comprising a resonant capacitor and a resonant inductor. A first switching circuit of the two switching circuits is electrically connected to one side of the first capacitor unit opposite to the other side of the first capacitor unit connected to the second capacitor unit of the two capacitor units. The switches of the first switching circuit are controllable semiconductor switches. The first switching circuit comprises one or more diode units electrically connecting the first capacitor unit to the two switching units of the first switching circuit.