Single Active Bridge Converter Secondary Switch Dynamics
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing single active bridge power converters require large and costly transformers due to their non-bi-directional design, leading to suboptimal active/apparent power ratios and high peak currents, which complicates their implementation and increases costs.
Innovation Solution
Incorporating a switch on the secondary side of the converter that can selectively short the transformer secondary winding, allowing for improved performance by operating in a zero vector state and reducing the need for large transformers, while using fewer active components compared to dual active bridge converters.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If a single active bridge converter is used without bi-directional design, then the device complexity is reduced, but the transformer size increases and active/apparent power ratio deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a secondary switch on the secondary side that can be dynamically controlled to short the transformer secondary winding. This dynamic switching capability allows the converter to operate in different modes (buck, boost, bi-directional) without changing the physical structure, thereby maintaining low device complexity while achieving optimal transformer utilization and reduced transformer size through proper design
2Device complexity
If transformer turn ratios are designed for buck operation only, then the device complexity is simplified, but the active/apparent power ratio deteriorates and transformer size increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs dynamic switching control of the secondary switch to enable the converter to operate in buck, boost, or bi-directional modes. This dynamic operation allows the transformer to be fully utilized across different operating conditions, achieving optimal active/apparent power ratio without requiring complex multi-winding transformers or multiple switches on both sides
3Quantity of substance
If a single active bridge converter without secondary switch is used, then the quantity of components is reduced, but peak current increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a secondary switch that can change the operating parameters of the converter by providing an additional current path. When activated, this switch creates a zero vector state that redistributes current flow, thereby reducing peak current stress on the primary side components while adding only one switch and maintaining component efficiency
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 results in smaller transformers, lower peak currents, and improved power capabilities, similar to dual active bridge converters but with fewer components, making it suitable for various applications including transportation, power distribution, and renewable energy.
Implementation Method 1
A transformer is coupled to the primary side circuit. A secondary side circuit is coupled to the transformer secondary winding
Data Source
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AI summary
A single active bridge converter (101) is provided. The single active bridge converter includes a transformer (106) including a primary winding (110) and a secondary winding (112), a primary side circuit (102) electrically coupled to the primary winding and including an H bridge circuit (114), and a secondary side circuit (104) electrically coupled to the secondary winding, the secondary side circuit including a switch (200) configured to selectively short the transformer secondary winding.