Switched Capacitor Pump Network for Uniform Voltage Stress
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing switched capacitor converters face challenges in achieving uniform voltage stress across capacitors, leading to inefficiencies and increased costs due to the need for multiple types of capacitors with different voltage ratings.
Innovation Solution
The proposed solution involves a novel capacitor network configuration that allows for controlled distribution of voltage stress among capacitors, achieved by combining series and parallel capacitor network configurations, which enables a more uniform and efficient voltage transformation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If traditional switched capacitor converter configurations are used, then voltage transformation is achieved, but non-uniform voltage stress distribution across capacitors occurs
Solution Approach 1:
The capacitor network is segmented into multiple groups with different configurations (series, parallel, and combinations). Each group is assigned to specific voltage nodes to control the voltage stress distribution. This segmentation allows uniform voltage stress across all capacitors while maintaining the voltage transformation function.
Solution Approach 2:
Different capacitor groups are assigned to different locations in the circuit with different connectivity configurations. Capacitors at different voltage nodes have different series/parallel arrangements tailored to achieve uniform voltage stress distribution across the entire network, rather than using a uniform configuration throughout.
2Reliability
If multiple types of capacitors with different voltage ratings are used, then non-uniform voltage stress is accommodated, but device cost and complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
All capacitors in the network use the same voltage rating and are interchangeable. The universal capacitor design simplifies manufacturing and inventory management. The different series/parallel configurations at various nodes accommodate the voltage stress requirements without requiring different capacitor types.
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of changing capacitor voltage ratings to accommodate different voltage stresses, the invention changes the connectivity parameters (series/parallel arrangements) of identical capacitors. This parameter change in configuration rather than component specification achieves uniform voltage stress distribution while maintaining ease of manufacture.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the number of capacitors and switches increases to achieve higher transformation ratios, then voltage transformation capability improves, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The capacitor network configuration is made dynamic and reconfigurable through switch control. The same physical capacitor can be connected in different series/parallel arrangements at different times to achieve different voltage transformation ratios. This dynamic reconfiguration allows high adaptability without proportionally increasing the number of permanent components.
Data Source
AI summary
A cascade multiplier includes a switch network having switching elements, a phase pump, and a network of pump capacitors coupled with the phase pump and to the switch network. The network of pump capacitors includes first and second capacitors, both of which have one terminal DC coupled with the phase pump, and a third capacitor coupled with the phase pump through the first capacitor.