Buck-boost DC-DC switching power conversion
AssigneeVLT, Inc.
InventorPatrizio Vinciarelli
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Abstract
Apparatus operates at a power level within a range of power levels that includes a rated maximum power level of the apparatus. The apparatus includes circuit elements to deliver power at an output voltage to a load from a source at an input voltage using an inductor selectively connected between the source and the load during a power conversion cycle. The inductor conducts a current having an average positive value during the power conversion cycle. A first switching device is interposed between the source and a first terminal of the inductor. A second switching device is interposed between a second terminal of the inductor and the load. A switch controller turns ON the first switching device during a time interval within the power conversion cycle during which the current is negative.
Claims33
Apparatus to operate at a power level within a range of power levels that includes a rated maximum power level of the apparatus, the apparatus comprising
- circuit elements to deliver power at an output voltage to a load from a source at an input voltage using an inductor selectively connected between the source and the load during a power conversion cycle, the inductor conducting a current having an average positive value during the power conversion cycle,
- a first switching device interposed between the source and a first terminal of the inductor,
- a second switching device interposed between a second terminal of the inductor and the load, and
- a switch controller to turn ON the first switching device during a time interval within the power conversion cycle during which the current is negative.
A method comprising
- delivering average power within a range of power levels including a maximum power level from a source at an input voltage to a load at an output voltage,
- selectively connecting an inductor to deliver the average power from the source to the load during a power conversion cycle, the average power flowing from the inductor through a second switching device to the load, and
- closing a first switching device that is interposed between the source and the inductor during a time interval within the power conversion cycle during which power flows from the inductor through the first switching device back to the source.
A method comprising
- converting power for delivery to a load at an output voltage from a source at an input voltage that can be higher or lower than the output voltage, the power being converted in a switching converter having a power density of at least 200 Watts per cubic inch by storing energy in an inductor operating in a discontinuous mode, with switching occurring at zero voltage.
Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.