Two-Inductor AC-DC Converter Controller Power
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional power converters require inefficient linear regulators or additional transformers to provide a low voltage output for internal control circuits, increasing cost and complexity while compromising efficiency.
Innovation Solution
A non-isolated power converter using two inductors to store and transfer energy, with a controller managing the switching based on feedback signals from a voltage divider, allowing for efficient regulation of outputs without the need for isolation transformers.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a linear regulator is used to provide low voltage output for the controller, then the controller can be powered, but the power conversion efficiency deteriorates significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the power conversion function into two separate inductors: a first inductor dedicated to providing regulated output power and a second inductor dedicated to providing low voltage power for the controller. This segmentation allows each inductor to be optimized for its specific function, enabling efficient power delivery to the controller without requiring a linear regulator and thus avoiding the efficiency losses associated with linear regulation.
Solution Approach 2:
The second inductor serves multiple functions: it stores energy during the switch on-state, provides regulated low voltage output during the off-state, and enables feedback control through the voltage divider circuit. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate linear regulators or additional transformers, improving overall system efficiency while maintaining reliable controller power supply.
2Loss of energy
If an isolating power transformer is used to provide power to the controller, then the controller can be powered with better efficiency, but the device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the controller power supply function from the main power transformation function by using a separate second inductor. This extraction eliminates the need for an isolating transformer and its associated complexity, while still providing efficient powered to the controller through the inductor's energy storage and release characteristics during switching cycles.
Solution Approach 2:
The second inductor acts as an intermediary energy storage element between the high voltage input and the low voltage controller supply. It couples the switching action to the controller power requirement, enabling efficient power transfer without requiring galvanic isolation or complex transformer windings, thus reducing device complexity while maintaining efficiency.
3Reliability
If two inductors are used with different inductance values, then cross-regulation effects are minimized and output regulation is improved, but the manufacturing precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies different inductance values to the two inductors based on their specific functional requirements. The first inductor has an inductance optimized for the main power output regulation, while the second inductor has an inductance optimized for controller power supply. This local quality differentiation minimizes cross-regulation effects between the two outputs, as each inductor operates in its optimal performance range, thereby improving overall output regulation despite varying manufacturing tolerances.
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
This solution enables efficient regulation of multiple outputs with reduced system cost and complexity, optimizing energy transfer and minimizing cross-regulation effects.
Implementation Method 1
Each inductor in the power converter receives and stores energy provided from the non-regulated power source, and transfers the stored energy to provide a regulated output to a power converter load
Data Source
AI summary
Embodiments disclosed herein describe the use of two inductors in a non-isolated power converter. The power converter receives power from a non-regulated power source, and converts the received power to regulated output signals. Each inductor in the power converter receives power provided from the non-regulated power source via a switch controlled by a controller, and provides a regulated output to a power converter load. A first regulated output provided by a first inductor can be representative of a second regulated output provided by a second inductor. In addition, a voltage feedback signal can be provided for use by the controller based on the first regulated output and/or the second regulated output.