초록 ▼

A converter circuit providing multiple current bypass routes between the output leads to provide reliability in a series connection of several converters. If the converter malfunctions due to component failure, the current bypass routes provide a path for the current that views the malfunctioning co

A converter circuit providing multiple current bypass routes between the output leads to provide reliability in a series connection of several converters. If the converter malfunctions due to component failure, the current bypass routes provide a path for the current that views the malfunctioning converter as substantially a short. Diodes prevent backflow into the power source connected to the converter. Redundancy is provided in the bypass portions of the converter circuit that provides alternate parallel paths in case a defective component in one of the paths opens the circuit along that path. In one example, the converter is implemented as a buck plus boost converter where either the buck or the boost portion or both are operative responsive to a controller controlling the switches of both portions. Most of the converter circuit may be implemented in an integrated circuit.

대표청구항 ▼

What is claimed is: 1. A distributed power harvesting system comprising:a plurality of power sources each providing DC power;a plurality of converters, each converter comprising:input terminals receiving input voltage from, and coupled to, a respective power source from the plurality of power source

What is claimed is: 1. A distributed power harvesting system comprising:a plurality of power sources each providing DC power;a plurality of converters, each converter comprising:input terminals receiving input voltage from, and coupled to, a respective power source from the plurality of power sources;output terminals for providing an output voltage;circuitry operatively connected to said input terminals and output terminals, wherein said circuitry receives and converts the input voltage to the output voltage, the circuitry comprising a buck portion providing a stepped down output voltage, a boost portion connected to the buck portion and adapted to provide a stepped up output voltage, and a controller selectively engaging the buck portion and/or the boost portion;at least two bypass paths adapted for bypassing at least part of the circuitry; wherein; anda maximum power point tracking circuits coupled to a respective power source for tracking power input from the respective power source, wherein the controller selectively engages the buck portion or the boost portion or both in response to signal from the maximum power point tracking circuit.