Resonant Network Passive Element ZVS Control

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current plasma power conversion devices using LC resonant networks face challenges in controlling output current and performing Zero Voltage Switching (ZVS) at low currents due to limitations in design, leading to stress on power supply switches and safety concerns.

Innovation Solution

A resonant network for plasma power supply is introduced, incorporating a resonant inductor, resonant capacitor, and a passive element, which includes a capacitor with a smaller device value, allowing for adjustment of voltage, current, and phase difference, enabling ZVS operation across a wider range of output currents by expanding the ZVS region.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If phase shift control is performed at resonance frequency to control output current in a wide area, then output current control range is improved, but ZVS operation becomes difficult at low current

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveoutput current control rangeVSAvoidZVS operation capability
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The resonant network is segmented into multiple functional components: resonant inductor, resonant capacitor, and passive element (capacitor). This segmentation allows each component to be optimized for specific functions - the passive element capacitor specifically addresses ZVS operation while the resonant components handle the overall resonance and current control, enabling both wide current control range and reliable ZVS operation at low currents

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The invention changes the electrical parameters of the resonant network by adding a passive element capacitor with a specific capacitance value smaller than the resonant capacitor. This parameter modification alters the network's impedance characteristics and phase angle, enabling the system to maintain ZVS operation across a wider current range while preserving the resonance frequency control capability

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

2Reliability

If additional inductor is added to expand ZVS region, then ZVS operation area is improved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
ImproveZVS operation areaVSAvoidnumber of components
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The passive element capacitor serves multiple functions simultaneously: it expands the ZVS operation region, enables phase shift control, and works in conjunction with the resonant components to maintain resonance. This multi-functionality achieves the ZVS expansion goal without adding the complexity of an additional inductor, as the capacitor can be integrated into the existing circuit topology

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

3Reliability

If ZVS operation is difficult, then system safety is compromised due to stress on switches

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveswitch stress resistanceVSAvoidcurrent control capability
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The passive element capacitor is designed beforehand to provide cushioning protection for the power switches. By pre-configuring the resonant network with this capacitor, the system ensures that ZVS operation is achieved across the required current range, preventing excessive voltage stress on switches before it occurs rather than attempting to mitigate it after the fact

Inventive Principle:
Principle #11Beforehand cushioning (Prior cushioning)

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 solution allows for effective phase shift control and ZVS operation at low output currents, reducing the risk of drop-out phenomena and enhancing system safety by extending the ZVS region and improving current control.

Implementation Method 1

the system is operated at a resonance frequency having a constant output current regardless of the electrical resistance of the load

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectLC resonance: Resonance

Implementation Method 2

A voltage and a current magnitude of the power supply unit and a phase difference of a resonance frequency may be adjusted by the passive element

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectPhase shift control:

Data Source

PatentUS10548211B2Resonant network for plasma power supply and power supply device for plasma generator
Publication Date: 2020.01.28 NEW POWER PLASMA CO LTD
  • US10548211B2 patent drawing
  • US10548211B2 patent drawing
  • US10548211B2 patent drawing

AI summary

Provided is a resonant network for plasma power supply, which is connected between a power supply unit and an output unit. The resonant network includes a resonant inductor connected in series with the power supply unit, a resonant capacitor connected in parallel with the output unit and connected in series with the resonant inductor, and a passive element connected in series with the output unit and the resonant inductor and connected in parallel with the resonant capacitor.