Switch-Mode Converter Topology for Direct Transformer Power Transfer
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing electrical power converters face inefficiencies in direct power flow and voltage regulation due to simultaneous conduction states of primary and secondary switches, lacking effective transformer reset mechanisms, and require additional power switches for proper operation.
Innovation Solution
A switch mode power converter with a transformer or autotransformer design that incorporates a phase shift between inverting and rectifying power switches, utilizing series inductances and parasitic capacitances for transformer reset, and controlled by a driver with adjustable duty cycles and phase shifts to regulate output voltage and current.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If additional power switches are added to ensure proper operation (freewheeling, demagnetization), then reliability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts and eliminates the output inductor from the conventional circuit topology. By removing this component, the associated freewheeling and demagnetization functions become unnecessary, allowing the elimination of multiple power switches (D16, D6, D15, D19, D21) while maintaining proper operation through the transformer's inherent characteristics and the remaining power switches (M2, M3, M4, D13).
Solution Approach 2:
The patent makes the remaining power switches perform multiple functions simultaneously. The power switches M2, M3, and M4 are configured to provide both rectification and freewheeling functions, eliminating the need for separate dedicated switches for each function. This multi-functionality reduces the total number of switches while ensuring reliable operation.
2Measurement precision
If voltage regulation is attained by adjusting conduction time with an output inductor, then voltage control precision is improved, but direct power flow efficiency deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes the output inductor from the circuit, eliminating the indirect power flow path through the inductor. This direct connection allows power to flow efficiently from the transformer to the load without passing through the inductor, reducing conduction losses while maintaining voltage regulation capability through duty cycle control of the power switches.
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of using an output inductor to regulate voltage (indirect regulation), the patent inverts the approach by using direct duty cycle control of power switches to regulate voltage (direct regulation). This inversion eliminates the need for the inductor and reduces energy losses while achieving the same voltage control objective.
3Measurement precision
If there is no direct connection between energy source and load through transformer, then voltage regulation is achieved, but productivity deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts and removes the output inductor that blocked the direct power flow path. By eliminating this component, the transformer becomes directly connected to the load, enabling simultaneous conduction of power switches and creating a direct power flow path that improves productivity and power transfer efficiency while maintaining voltage regulation through duty cycle control.
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
Enhances direct power transfer efficiency by reducing RMS current values and conduction losses, allowing bidirectional power flow and precise voltage control, while operating power switches near their technological limits.
Implementation Method 1
a transformer or an autotransformer (11) including a magnetizing inductance and for each of the transformer winding a series inductance
Implementation Method 2
both first and second power switches are configured to connect the primary port to the secondary port, through the transformer, with a limited magnetic energy storage being reset during a reset time
Data Source
AI summary
A switch mode electrical power converter comprises a transformer, a power switch arranged in a primary side of transformer; a second power switch arranged in a secondary side of the transformer, a driver that turns on and turns off the power switch and optionally the second power switch by driving terminals; and optionally a control unit that controls the driver. The power switches operated under the action of a driving signal provided by the driver providing a direct transfer of power from the primary port to the secondary port through the transformer with a limited magnetic energy storage that is reset during a reset time of the power converter. A regulation of the power converter is controlled by a switching frequency variation of any of the power switches or phase shift or a combination thereof.