Universal Power Conversion Circuit for Wide Voltage Range
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional non-isolated DC-DC converters cannot produce a negative voltage lower than ground voltage or a positive voltage exceeding the supply voltage, limiting their ability to output arbitrary voltages within a wide range from negative to positive.
Innovation Solution
A power conversion circuit with a transformer having a 1:1 turn ratio and bidirectional switches, allowing operation in multiple modes such as step-up, step-down, and inverted-output step-up-and-down converters to achieve arbitrary voltage output within the range.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If conventional non-isolated DC-DC converters are used, then the circuit structure is simple, but the output voltage range is limited and cannot produce negative voltages or voltages exceeding the supply voltage
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a universal power conversion circuit that can operate in multiple modes (step-up, step-down, and inverted-output) using the same transformer and switching elements. The circuit achieves multi-functionality by controlling different combinations of switches (first and second switches for step-up, third and fourth switches for step-down, fifth and sixth switches for inverted-output) to connect the transformer windings in different configurations, allowing a single circuit to replace multiple dedicated converters
Solution Approach 2:
The patent divides the power conversion circuit into distinct operational segments or modes, each handled by specific switching combinations. The transformer windings are segmented into primary and secondary sides with independent switch groups that can be activated selectively. This segmentation allows the circuit to transition between different voltage conversion modes by activating specific switch groups while keeping others inactive, thereby achieving wide voltage range without requiring completely separate circuit paths
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple-output DC-DC converters are used to expand voltage range, then the output voltage range increases, but the circuit complexity and number of components increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple voltage conversion functions into a single integrated circuit structure. Instead of using separate step-up and step-down converter circuits, the invention combines both functions along with inverted-output capability into one circuit that shares the same transformer, switching elements, and control logic. The merging is achieved by allowing different switch combinations to route power through the same components in different configurations
Solution Approach 2:
The same transformer and switching elements serve multiple purposes across different operating modes. The primary and secondary windings can function in different roles depending on which switch group is active, and the control circuit universally manages all switching operations regardless of the desired output mode. This universality eliminates the need for duplicate components for each voltage conversion function
3Ease of operation
If conventional DC-DC converter types are used, then the circuit design is straightforward, but the ability to control output voltage over a wide range from negative to positive is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic switching control where the circuit configuration changes in real-time based on the desired output voltage. The control circuit dynamically selects which switch group to activate depending on whether step-up, step-down, or inverted-output mode is required. This dynamic reconfiguration allows continuous adjustment of the output voltage across the entire range from negative to positive voltages by transitioning between different switching states
Solution Approach 2:
The invention changes the operational parameters of the circuit by varying which switches are conductive. By changing the conduction state of different switch groups, the circuit transforms its voltage conversion characteristics. The control circuit monitors the desired output and adjusts the switching parameters accordingly, enabling seamless transition between different voltage ranges and polarities through parameter modification rather than physical reconfiguration
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
Enables the output of arbitrary voltages from negative to positive, expanding usability and allowing control of output voltage over a wide range, including alternating voltages.
Implementation Method 1
a transformer 12 having a ratio between the numbers of turns of a primary winding L1 and a secondary winding L2 set to 1:1
Data Source
AI summary
A power conversion circuit capable of varying an output voltage within a range from a negative voltage lower than a ground voltage to a positive voltage higher than a supply voltage, and a driving method and a drive unit are provided. A power conversion circuit includes a transformer with a 1:1 ratio between the primary winding and secondary winding, a voltage outputting capacitor, and four switches. The power conversion circuit can be operated as a DC-DC converter of a step-up type, a step-up-and-down type, a step-down type, an inverted-output step-up-and-down type, or an inverted-output step-up type by selecting two switches used for control from among the four switches and alternately turning the two switches on. By switching the operating modes of the power conversion circuit, the output voltage can be varied within a range from a negative voltage to a positive voltage higher than a supply voltage.