Partial power DC-DC converter with controllable topology

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing partial power DC-DC converters lack a topology that is controllable between type I and type II, limiting their adaptability in various applications.

Innovation Solution

A partial power DC-DC converter with controllable topology, featuring switches that allow switching between type I, type II, and bypass configurations, enabling flexible connection of DC devices.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If a fixed topology (type I or type II) is used in partial power DC-DC converter, then the converter structure is simple, but the adaptability to different applications is limited

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvetopology adaptabilityVSAvoidconverter structure
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements a controllable topology that can dynamically switch between type I and type II configurations based on application requirements. The converter uses switching elements to reconfigure the power flow paths, allowing the system to adapt its topology in real-time rather than being fixed to a single configuration.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The patent designs a universal partial power DC-DC converter that can perform multiple functions by switching between type I and type II topologies. This multi-functional design allows the same converter structure to serve different application needs (photovoltaic systems, electric vehicles, energy storage) without requiring separate dedicated converters for each application type.

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

2Loss of energy

If power is fully processed by DC-DC converter, then voltage conversion is achieved, but power losses and system size increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvepower lossVSAvoidvoltage conversion capability
Core Design Contradiction:
Loss of energyVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies power segmentation by dividing the total power into two paths: a direct power link that bypasses the DC-DC converter for minimal loss transmission, and a processed power path that goes through the DC-DC converter for necessary voltage conversion. This segmentation allows the system to minimize power losses while maintaining voltage conversion capability where needed.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent implements partial power processing where only the necessary portion of power undergoes DC-DC conversion, while the remaining power is directly transmitted. This partial action approach reduces the burden on the DC-DC converter, minimizing losses and system size while still achieving the required voltage conversion for the specific application needs.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #16Partial or excessive action

Data Source

PatentEP4274077B1Partial power DC-DC converter with controllable topology
Publication Date: 2026.03.04 UNIV TECNICA FEDERICO SANTA MARIA
  • EP4274077B1 patent drawingFigure 1~3
  • EP4274077B1 patent drawingFigure 4~6
  • EP4274077B1 patent drawingFigure 7~9

AI summary

The invention provides a partial power DC-DC converter with controllable topology, comprising: a galvanically isolated DC-DC converter having a positive and negative input; a positive and negative output; a DC voltage input electrically connected to said positive input of the DC-DC converter; an input reference; a DC voltage output electrically connected to said positive output of the DC-DC converter; an output reference electrically connected to said input reference; said partial power DC-DC converter additionally comprising: a first switch for selectively connecting said positive input to said negative output of the DC-DC converter; a second switch for selectively connecting said negative input of the DC-DC converter to said input reference; a third switch for selectively connecting said negative output of the DC-DC converter to said output reference; and a fourth switch for selectively connecting said positive output to said negative input of the DC-DC converter.