Shared Inductor Boost Buck-Boost Converter Control

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing voltage converter circuits require two inductive elements to generate a higher regulated voltage and a negative regulated voltage from a single DC input, which is costly and extensive in electronic components.

Innovation Solution

A power supply circuit using a single inductive element for both boost and buck-boost converters, with a control system that alternates chopping periods and redistributes power between the converters based on load requirements, incorporating unidirectional diodes and capacitive elements with chopper switches controlled by a logic circuit and comparison signals.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If two inductive elements are used in separate boost and buck-boost converters, then each converter can operate independently, but the device complexity and component count increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveindependent converter operationVSAvoidnumber of inductive elements
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines two separate inductive elements into a single shared inductive element that serves both the boost converter and buck-boost converter. The inductive element is connected to both converters through switching mechanisms, allowing one inductive component to perform the energy storage function for both voltage conversion paths, thereby reducing component count while maintaining functional independence through controlled switching

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

2Device complexity

If a single inductive element is shared between boost and buck-boost converters, then component count and complexity are reduced, but power distribution and converter coordination become more difficult

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvenumber of inductive elementsVSAvoidpower distribution control
Core Design Contradiction:
Device complexityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The patent employs dynamic switching control where the connection of the shared inductive element to either the boost converter or buck-boost converter is changed in real-time based on load requirements. Control circuits monitor the operational state of both converters and dynamically redirect power flow through switching elements, enabling flexible power distribution and preventing conflicts when both converters need to operate

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The patent incorporates feedback mechanisms where control circuits monitor the operational status, voltage levels, and power demands of both the boost and buck-boost converters. This feedback information is used to intelligently control the switching elements that direct power from the shared inductive element to the appropriate converter, ensuring stable operation and preventing overvoltage conditions

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

3Adaptability or versatility

If both converters operate simultaneously with a shared inductive element, then power conversion flexibility is improved, but overvoltage risks and power distribution conflicts increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvevoltage conversion flexibilityVSAvoidovervoltage risk
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The patent uses dynamic switching control to manage the shared inductive element's connection to different converters based on real-time operational needs. The control system monitors voltage levels and load conditions, dynamically redirecting power flow to prevent overvoltage situations while maintaining the ability to provide both boost and buck-boost conversion functions as required by the application

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The patent introduces control circuits and switching elements as intermediary components between the shared inductive element and the two converters. These intermediaries act as intelligent mediators that regulate power distribution, prevent direct conflicts between converters, and manage voltage levels to avoid overvoltage conditions while maintaining conversion flexibility

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

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 circuit efficiently generates two regulated voltages with a single inductive element, inhibiting unnecessary converter operation and preventing overvoltages by redistributing power, thus reducing component costs and complexity.

Implementation Method 1

a single inductive element for both boost and buck-boost converters

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElectromagnetic induction: Electromagnetic Induction

Implementation Method 2

incorporating unidirectional diodes and capacitive elements with chopper switches

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectDiode rectification: Diode

Data Source

PatentUS8461814B2Boost/buck converter and method for controlling it
Publication Date: 2013.06.11 STMICROELECTRONICS (TOURS) SAS
  • US8461814B2 patent drawing
  • US8461814B2 patent drawing
  • US8461814B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A power supply circuit capable of providing two regulated voltages based on a D.C. input voltage, including a boost converter and a buck-boost converter, the circuit including a single inductive element common to the boost and buck-boost converters.