Variable Inductor Resonant Power Converter Frequency Matching

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Solution Overview

Problem

Solid state power distribution systems face inefficiencies due to heat energy loss from frequency switching in switch mode converters, where the disparate resonant frequencies between the switching frequency and the source frequency lead to reduced power transfer and efficiency, especially under changing load and voltage conditions, and existing solutions fail to provide infinitely variable inductance adjustments within weight and space constraints.

Innovation Solution

A variable resonant power converter with a tunable inductor, controlled by a microcontroller or FPGA, dynamically adjusts the inductance of the resonant tank circuit to maintain the resonant frequency within a predetermined margin of the switching frequency, using infinitely variable inductance adjustments to compensate for dynamic changes in load and voltage, thereby optimizing power transfer efficiency.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If the switching frequency is changed to adapt to varying load and voltage conditions, then the power converter can maintain output regulation, but the resonant frequency mismatch increases causing heat loss and efficiency degradation

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvepower converter adaptation to varying load and voltageVSAvoidheat loss from resonant frequency mismatch

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSLoss of energy

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements a variable inductor that can dynamically adjust its inductance value in real-time to track and maintain resonant frequency alignment with the switching frequency across varying operating conditions. This dynamic adjustment capability allows the system to adapt to changing loads and voltages while minimizing resonant frequency mismatch and associated heat losses.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The patent changes the inductance parameter of the resonant tank circuit dynamically through the variable inductor, allowing the resonant frequency to be adjusted to match the switching frequency under different operating conditions. This parameter change enables the system to maintain high efficiency across a wide range of loads and input voltages.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #35Parameter changes

2Measurement precision

If additional inductor coils are added to achieve infinitely variable inductance, then the resonant frequency can be precisely tuned, but the weight and space requirements increase

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveresonant frequency tuning precisionVSAvoidinductor assembly weight

Core Design Contradiction:

Measurement precisionVSWeight of moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent employs a single variable inductor that can continuously adjust its inductance value through electronic control, replacing the need for multiple fixed inductor coils. This dynamic adjustment mechanism achieves precise resonant frequency tuning while significantly reducing the weight and space required compared to using multiple discrete inductor coils.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The variable inductor serves multiple functions: it provides continuous inductance adjustment for resonant frequency tuning, maintains optimal power transfer across varying operating conditions, and eliminates the need for additional inductor coils. This multi-functional component achieves precise frequency control without increasing system weight or complexity.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

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 maintains high power conversion efficiency by keeping the resonant frequencies closely matched, achieving efficiency ranging from 98 to 99% even under varying load conditions, without the need for additional inductor coils, thus addressing the inefficiencies and space constraints in existing systems.

Implementation Method 1

The resonant tank circuit operates at a tank resonant frequency. The variable inductor is configured to modify the tank resonant frequency to match the switching frequency within a predetermined margin.

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectResonance: Resonance

Data Source

PatentUS11437923B2Variable resonant power converter with tunable inductor

Publication Date: 2022.09.06 HAMILTON SUNDSTRAND CORP

AI summary

An electronic power converter is configured to receive power from a power source. The power operates at a switching frequency. The electronic power converter includes a resonant tank circuit operatively connected to the power converter. The resonant tank circuit operates at a tank resonant frequency. The electronic power converter includes a controller operatively connected to the resonant tank circuit. The electronic power converter further includes a variable inductor operatively connected to the resonant tank circuit. The variable inductor is configured to modify the tank resonant frequency to match the switching frequency within a predetermined margin.