Phase Shedding in Parallel Power Converters

Organization Name

Inventor(s)

Antony Christopher Routledge of Oakley (GB)

Phase Shedding in Parallel Power Converters - A simplified explanation of the abstract

This abstract first appeared for US patent application 18185912 titled 'Phase Shedding in Parallel Power Converters

Simplified Explanation

This patent application describes methods and circuits that allow power converters to operate in parallel, enabling phase shedding without long startup times. By using reduced gate-drive (RGD) low-dropout (LDO) circuits, individual power converters can come online asynchronously, supporting phase shedding without synchronization issues.

Enables parallel operation of power converters
Uses reduced gate-drive (RGD) low-dropout (LDO) circuits
Supports phase shedding without synchronization problems
Allows power converters to come online asynchronously
Reduces delays for full charge balancing and soft-start

Key Features and Innovation

- Utilizes reduced gate-drive (RGD) low-dropout (LDO) circuits within power converters - Enables parallel operation of power converters without synchronization issues - Reduces startup times and delays for full charge balancing and soft-start - Supports phase shedding in power converter systems

Potential Applications

- Power distribution systems - Renewable energy systems - Electric vehicle charging stations - Industrial power systems

Problems Solved

- Long startup times in parallel power converter systems - Synchronization issues when enabling phase shedding - Delays in full charge balancing and soft-start processes

Benefits

- Faster startup times for power converters - Improved efficiency in parallel power converter systems - Enhanced flexibility in managing power distribution - Reduced synchronization problems in phase shedding

Commercial Applications

Title: Enhanced Parallel Power Converter Systems for Efficient Power Distribution This technology can be applied in various industries such as renewable energy, electric vehicles, and industrial power systems. It offers improved efficiency and flexibility in managing power distribution, making it a valuable solution for companies seeking to optimize their power systems.

Prior Art

For prior art related to this technology, researchers can explore patents and publications in the field of power electronics, specifically focusing on parallel operation of power converters and phase shedding techniques.

Frequently Updated Research

Researchers in the field of power electronics and renewable energy may be conducting studies on parallel power converter systems and their applications in different industries. Stay updated on the latest research to understand the evolving trends in this technology.

Questions about Parallel Power Converter Systems

What are the key benefits of using reduced gate-drive (RGD) low-dropout (LDO) circuits in power converters?

Using RGD LDO circuits allows for faster startup times, reduced delays in charge balancing, and supports phase shedding without synchronization issues.

How does parallel operation of power converters improve efficiency in power distribution systems?

Parallel operation enables better load sharing, increased reliability, and flexibility in managing power distribution, leading to improved overall system efficiency.

Original Abstract Submitted

Methods and circuits that enable parallel operation of power converters such that phase shedding is possible without excessively long startup times. More specifically, embodiments utilize reduced gate-drive (RGD) low-dropout (LDO) circuits within individual power converters to enable parallel power converter systems that support phase shedding while eliminating a “ping pong” effect (synchronization problems). The RGD capability of each parallel power converter allows each power converter to come online asynchronously without affecting other parallel power converters. In particular, the RGD capability allows full power up of the power converters with substantially reduced delays for full charge balancing and soft-start. For example, embodiments of the invention typically have delays for RGD charge balancing measured in hundreds of microseconds, not tens of milliseconds as with charge balancing in conventional, non-RGD power converters.