Variable Inductor LLC Converter for Dynamic Efficiency
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Solution Overview
Problem
LLC resonant converters face efficiency issues and limited application when the ratio of magnetic inductance to resonant inductance is too large or too small, leading to suboptimal operation and inefficient performance under varying load and operating conditions.
Innovation Solution
Incorporating a variable inductor in the resonant circuit to adjust the inductance ratio between the magnetic and resonant inductance units, allowing for dynamic adjustment of the converter's characteristic curve and operating point to maintain efficiency across different conditions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If the ratio of magnetic inductance to resonant inductance is fixed, then the converter structure is simple, but the converter cannot operate at the optimal operation point when load conditions change
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the dynamics principle by introducing a variable inductor that can dynamically adjust the magnetic inductance value based on load conditions. The variable inductor changes its inductance value in response to load variations, allowing the converter to adapt to different operating points and maintain optimal efficiency across varying load conditions.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies the parameter changes principle by modifying the magnetic inductance parameter through the variable inductor. By changing the inductance value according to load conditions, the converter can shift its operating point along the characteristic curve to maintain optimal performance. This parameter adjustment enables the system to adapt without fundamentally changing the converter structure.
2Loss of energy
If the inductance ratio is optimized for one operating point, then efficiency is high at that point, but efficiency drops when operating conditions change
Solution Approach 1:
The variable inductor dynamically adjusts the magnetic inductance to maintain optimal efficiency across varying load conditions. By continuously adapting the inductance value, the converter operates near its optimal efficiency point regardless of load changes, preventing efficiency drops that would occur with a fixed inductance ratio.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements feedback control where the converter monitors its operating conditions and adjusts the variable inductor accordingly. This feedback mechanism ensures that the inductance ratio is continuously optimized based on actual performance, maintaining high efficiency across different operating points rather than being optimized for a single condition.
3Adaptability or versatility
If a fixed inductance ratio is used, then the converter design is straightforward, but the application range is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The variable inductor provides dynamic adaptability that extends the converter's application range. By adjusting the inductance value, the converter can operate efficiently across different input voltages, output power levels, and load conditions, making it suitable for a broader range of applications compared to fixed inductance designs.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent extends application range by enabling parameter changes in the magnetic inductance. This allows the converter to adapt to different operating requirements without requiring multiple fixed designs, effectively expanding the application range while maintaining relatively simple converter architecture.
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 the converter to maintain high efficiency and optimal operation by adjusting the inductance ratio, ensuring stable output voltage and extending its application range despite changes in load and operating conditions.
Implementation Method 1
The resonant circuit is electrically coupled to the switching circuit and configured to receive the switching signal to provide a primary current
Implementation Method 2
The transformer includes a primary winding electrically coupled to the resonant circuit, and a secondary winding
Implementation Method 3
The rectifying circuit is electrically coupled to the secondary winding and configured to rectify a secondary current outputted by the secondary winding so as to provide an output voltage
Data Source
AI summary
A converter includes a switching circuit, a resonant circuit, a rectifying circuit, and a transformer including a primary winding, and a secondary winding. The switching circuit is configured to convert a DC input voltage to a switching signal. The resonant circuit is electrically coupled to the switching circuit and configured to receive the switching signal to provide a primary current. The primary winding is coupled to the resonant circuit. The rectifying circuit is coupled to the secondary winding and configured to rectify a secondary current outputted by the secondary winding so as to provide an output voltage. The resonant circuit includes a variable inductor to adjust the characteristic curve of the converter.