Self-Bootstrapping Isolated Power Converter

About this technology

Overview

Isolated power converters (IPCs) provide safety and performance benefits like noise reduction by separating current flow between a circuit’s input and output. Existing IPCs require bootstrapping the main converter on startup by using a dedicated converter to supply isolated power from the output to the input. The need for two converters decreases efficiency, increases size, weight, and power (SWaP) requirements, and adds complexity to the overall power converter. The bootstrapping problem is significant in space flight applications where SWaP considerations are critical. In response, engineers at NASA's Goddard Space Flight Center developed the Self-Bootstrapping IPC to eliminate the need for an isolated bootstrap converter by allowing bi-modal operation of a single converter. Specifically, the invention operates in transition mode for bootstrapping and then migrates to fixed frequency mode via closed feedback. This bi-modal converter allows users to benefit from reduced mass and volume, increased power density, and improved efficiency (91-94%).