Three-Level Boost Converter ZVS Control for Higher Switching Frequency
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Solution Overview
Problem
There is a need to reduce the weight and improve the performance of power converters, particularly in aircraft applications, where existing technologies face challenges in minimizing weight and increasing efficiency while managing thermal dissipation and electromagnetic interference.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of a three-level boost converter system that employs quasi-square wave zero-voltage-switching (ZVS) technique, which reduces switching losses by using a logic module to control a switching module with multiple switches and an inductor, maintaining zero-voltage-switching conditions for specified intervals, and adjusting switching frequency based on current and output voltage differences.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Volume of moving object
If switching frequency is increased to reduce weight and volume, then power density improves, but switching losses and thermal dissipation increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the switching waveform from traditional PWM to quasi-square wave, and implements zero-voltage switching to alter the switching characteristics. This parameter change allows higher switching frequencies to be achieved with reduced switching losses, resolving the contradiction between volume reduction and energy loss.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes resonant oscillation and vibrational effects in the switching circuit to achieve zero-voltage switching conditions. By exploiting the natural oscillation characteristics of the circuit components, the system can switch at optimal moments that minimize energy loss while maintaining high switching frequencies.
2Weight of moving object
If switching frequency is increased to reduce weight, then converter weight decreases, but electromagnetic interference increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the switching waveform shape to quasi-square wave with controlled transition characteristics. This parameter modification reduces high-frequency harmonics and electromagnetic radiation while enabling higher switching frequencies, thus reducing weight without proportionally increasing EMI.
3Device complexity
If traditional PWM switching is used, then control is simple, but switching losses are high and efficiency is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements feedback control mechanisms that monitor voltage and current conditions to determine optimal switching moments. This feedback approach enables zero-voltage switching while maintaining manageable control complexity through systematic control strategies.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent prepares the switching circuit in advance by creating zero-voltage conditions before switching occurs. This preliminary action of pre-charging or pre-discharging capacitor elements ensures that switching happens at zero voltage, minimizing losses while keeping control logic relatively simple.
Data Source
AI summary
In accordance with at least one aspect of this disclosure, a converter system for a three level boost converter. In embodiments, the system includes a voltage input configured to connect to a voltage source, a switching module operatively connected to the voltage input to output quasi-square wave, a voltage output configured to supply voltage to a load, and a logic module. In embodiments, the logic module can be configured to control the switching module to modulate voltage from the voltage source to the voltage output to maintain a zero-voltage switching condition for at least a specified interval, using a method.