Field configurable array of power processing blocks
By combining power converters and inverters into a power processing block and utilizing dynamic configuration with a controller, the complexity of integrating multiple renewable energy and energy storage devices and the difficulty of expansion in existing technologies are solved, achieving efficient and flexible system connectivity and expansion.
Patent Information
- Authority / Receiving Office
- CN · China
- Patent Type
- Applications(China)
- Current Assignee / Owner
- NEXT POWER LLC
- Filing Date
- 2024-11-27
- Publication Date
- 2026-07-24
AI Technical Summary
In existing technologies, integrating multiple renewable energy and energy storage devices requires multiple separate power converters and inverters, which increases system complexity and requires additional power converters and inverters when expanding the system, making it impossible to efficiently achieve flexible connection of multiple renewable energy and energy storage devices.
By combining power converters and inverters into power processing blocks, and using a controller to dynamically configure these blocks to achieve power conversion and connection between different voltages, flexible connection and expansion of multiple renewable energy and energy storage devices are supported.
It enables efficient connection and expansion of multiple renewable energy and energy storage devices, improves system flexibility and adaptability, reduces equipment redundancy, and lowers system complexity and expansion costs.
Smart Images
Figure CN122459985A_ABST
Abstract
Description
[0001] Related applications
[0002] This application claims the benefit and priority of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 603,107, filed November 27, 2023, and U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 676,667, filed July 29, 2023, the entire contents of which are hereby incorporated by reference. Technical Field
[0003] This disclosure generally relates to power converters and inverters. Background Technology
[0004] Integrating multiple renewable energy sources (e.g., different photovoltaic (PV) / solar panel arrays) together and further integrating energy storage devices (e.g., batteries) can be complex. Current solutions typically involve using separate power converters (e.g., DC / DC power converters) and inverters for each energy source and / or each energy storage device. Furthermore, if more renewable energy capacity and / or energy storage are added after the system has been built, additional power converters and inverters are needed to interconnect existing renewable energy and energy storage devices with the new ones. Summary of the Invention
[0005] Generally, this disclosure describes field-configurable arrays of power processing blocks. Specifically, the embodiments disclosed herein enable multiple renewable energy and / or energy storage devices to be more easily connected to each other and to the power grid by combining power converters (e.g., DC / DC converters) and inverters (e.g., DC / AC inverters) into one or more power processing blocks. Additionally, the embodiments disclosed herein enable additional renewable energy and / or additional energy storage devices to be connected to existing systems by making the power processing blocks configurable.
[0006] In one example, a configurable power block system includes: a first series of power processing blocks configured to convert between a first DC voltage and a second DC voltage; a second series of power processing blocks configured to convert power between one of the first DC voltage or the second DC voltage and an AC voltage; a first electrical input / output connection connectable to a first power supply / load; a second electrical input / output connection connectable to a second power supply / load; and a controller communicating with the first series of power processing blocks and the second series of power processing blocks. The controller may be configured to: determine the number of power processing blocks in the first series of power processing blocks required to process power between the first electrical input / output connection and the second electrical input / output connection; and determine the number of power processing blocks in the second series of power processing blocks required to process power between the first electrical input / output connection and the second electrical input / output connection. The controller may be further configured to cause a series of electrical connections to convert power between the first DC voltage at the first electrical input / output connection and the AC voltage at the second electrical input / output connection, wherein the series of electrical connections includes: electrically connecting the required number of power processing blocks in the first series of power processing blocks into a first group of power processing blocks; electrically connecting the required number of power processing blocks in the second series of power processing blocks into a second group of power processing blocks; electrically connecting the first electrical input / output connection to the first group of power processing blocks; electrically connecting the second electrical input / output connection to the second group of power processing blocks; and electrically connecting the first group of power processing blocks to the second group of power processing blocks.
[0007] In another example, a method of configuring a configurable power block system includes: determining the number of first power processing blocks required to process power between a first electrical input / output connection and a second electrical input / output connection, the first power processing blocks being configured to convert power between a first DC voltage and a second DC voltage; determining the number of second power processing blocks required to process power between the first electrical input / output connection and the second electrical input / output connection, the second power processing blocks being configured to convert power between the second DC voltage and an AC voltage; and causing a series of electrical connections to convert power between the first DC voltage at the first electrical input / output connection and the AC voltage at the second electrical input / output connection. The series of electrical connections may include: electrically connecting the required number of first power processing blocks into a first group of power processing blocks; electrically connecting the required number of second power processing blocks into a second group of power processing blocks; electrically connecting the first electrical input / output connection to the first group of power processing blocks; electrically connecting the second electrical input / output connection to the second group of power processing blocks; and electrically connecting the first group of power processing blocks to the second group of power processing blocks.
[0008] The example method may further include: determining the number of first power processing blocks required to process the power between the third electrical input / output connection and the second electrical input / output connection; determining the number of second power processing blocks required to process the power between the third electrical input / output connection and the second electrical input / output connection; and causing a second series of electrical connections to convert the power between the first DC voltage at the first electrical input / output connection and the AC voltage at the second electrical input / output connection, the series of electrical connections including: electrically connecting the required number of first power processing blocks into a third group of power processing blocks; electrically connecting the required number of second power processing blocks into a fourth group of power processing blocks; electrically connecting the third electrical input / output connection to the third group of power processing blocks; electrically connecting the second electrical input / output connection to the fourth group of power processing blocks; and electrically connecting the third group of power processing blocks to the fourth group of power processing blocks.
[0009] In some instances, the power processing blocks of the third group include one or more power processing blocks from the first group. In some instances, the power processing blocks of the fourth group include one or more power processing blocks from the second group.
[0010] Details of one or more examples are set forth in the accompanying drawings and the description below. Other features, objectives, and advantages will become apparent from the description and drawings and from the enumerated embodiments. Attached Figure Description
[0011] The following drawings illustrate specific examples of the invention and therefore do not limit the scope of the invention. The drawings are intended to be used in conjunction with the explanations in the following detailed description, wherein similar reference numerals denote similar elements. Examples of the invention will now be described in conjunction with the accompanying drawings.
[0012] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of an example system of a field-configurable array including a power processing block according to aspects of this disclosure.
[0013] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of an example system of a field-configurable array including a power processing block, presented in an alternative configuration according to aspects of this disclosure.
[0014] Figure 3A This is a schematic diagram of an example system of a field-configurable array including a power processing block, presented in a first configuration according to aspects of this disclosure.
[0015] Figure 3B The second configuration is included according to aspects of this disclosure. Figure 3A A schematic diagram of an example system of a field-configurable array of power processing blocks.
[0016] Figure 3C It is a third configuration included according to aspects of this disclosure. Figure 3A A schematic diagram of an example system of a field-configurable array of power processing blocks.
[0017] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of an example system of a field-configurable array including a power processing block, in a fourth configuration according to aspects of this disclosure.
[0018] Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of an example power processing block in a DC / AC configuration according to aspects of this disclosure.
[0019] Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram of an example power processing block in a DC / DC configuration according to aspects of this disclosure.
[0020] Figure 7A This is a schematic diagram of an example sub-processing block according to aspects of this disclosure.
[0021] Figure 7B This is a schematic diagram of an alternative instance of a subprocessing block according to aspects of this disclosure.
[0022] Figure 8 This is a flowchart of an example method for configuring a field-configurable array of power processing blocks according to aspects of this disclosure. Detailed Implementation
[0023] The following detailed description is exemplary and is not intended to limit the scope, applicability, or configuration of the invention in any way. Rather, the following description provides some practical illustrations of examples for carrying out the invention. Those skilled in the art will recognize that many of the examples have various suitable alternatives.
[0024] In this disclosure, a DC / DC converter generally refers to an electronic device that converts a first DC voltage into a second DC voltage. Similarly, a DC / AC inverter (also known as a DC / AC converter) generally refers to an electronic device that converts a DC voltage into an AC voltage.
[0025] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of an example system 100 comprising a field-configurable array 102 of power processing blocks according to aspects of this disclosure. The field-configurable array 102 of power processing blocks (also referred to herein as field-configurable array 102) includes power processing blocks 104, 106 in a DC / DC configuration (e.g., 104) or a DC / AC configuration (e.g., 106). The DC / DC power processing block 104 can convert a DC voltage to a higher or lower DC voltage. In some embodiments, the DC / DC power processing block 104 also performs input optimizations, such as maximum power point tracking (MPPT). Each of the DC / DC power processing blocks 104 is rated to operate at a maximum power level (e.g., 250 kVA). In contrast, the DC / AC power processing block 106 can convert a DC voltage input to an AC voltage output. However, in some embodiments, the DC / AC power processing block 106 can convert an AC voltage input to a DC voltage output. Each of the DC / AC power processing blocks 106 is rated to operate at a maximum power level (e.g., 250 kVA).
[0026] As further detailed elsewhere herein, the field-configurable array 102 may include any number of DC / DC power processing blocks 104 and any number of DC / AC power processing blocks 106. However, in Figure 1 In one embodiment, an equal number of DC / DC power processing blocks 104 and DC / AC power processing blocks 106 are included in a field-configurable array 102.
[0027] The field-configurable array 102 may also include various internal connections. For example, the field-configurable array 102 may include connections between different DC / DC power processing blocks 104, connections between different DC / AC power processing blocks 106, and connections between DC / DC power processing blocks 104 and DC / AC power processing blocks 106. The connections between internal components can be configured such that any power processing block 104, 106 can be connected to any number of other power processing blocks. For example, one or more DC / DC power processing blocks 104 can be connected to one or more DC / AC power processing blocks. In some instances, an internal controller 108a is used to configure the internal / external connections of the field-configurable array 102, while in some instances, an external controller 108b is used to configure any internal / external connections of the field-configurable array. In some embodiments, both the internal controller 108a and the external controller 108b are used to configure the internal / external connections of the field-configurable array 102.
[0028] The field-configurable array 102 can be connected to various inputs and outputs. Figure 1 In some embodiments, the field-configurable array 102 is connected to a first PV array 110, a second PV array 112, an energy storage device 114, and a power grid 116. The field-configurable array 102 also includes unconnected inputs 118. The inputs and outputs of the field-configurable array 102 can be connected to various power processing blocks 104, 106. For example, the first PV array 110 can be connected to one or more DC / DC power processing blocks 104, while the power grid 116 can be connected to one or more DC / AC power processing blocks 106. In some instances, the inputs are connected to the DC / DC power processing block 104, and the outputs are connected to the DC / AC power processing block 106. In some such instances, the inputs of the field-configurable array 102 can only operate with DC voltage, while the outputs of the field-configurable array 102 (e.g., the power grid 116) can only operate with AC voltage. Internal connections between the DC / DC power processing blocks 104 and the DC / AC power processing blocks 106 can connect the inputs (e.g., the first PV array 110) to the outputs (e.g., the power grid 116). Therefore, any power generated by the first PV array 110 can be output to the grid 116 via the field-configurable array 102.
[0029] In some embodiments, an input is connected to DC / AC power processing block 106, and an output is connected to DC / DC power processing block 104. For example, a power grid 116 may act as an input to the field-configurable array 102 to charge an energy storage device 114, which in turn acts as an output. In some instances, both the power grid 116 and the energy storage device 114 act as both an input and an output to the field-configurable array 102. The energy storage device 114 may be charged by the power grid 116 (e.g., at a first time), and the energy storage device 114 may discharge to the power grid 116 (e.g., at a second time). Generally, an input is defined as inputting electrical energy into the field-configurable array 102, and an output is defined as receiving electrical energy from the field-configurable array 102. However, those skilled in the art will understand that the elements constituting an input and an output are interchangeable, and this disclosure does not limit connections to either input or output.
[0030] Connections between various inputs and outputs of the field-configurable array 102 can be considered external connections. For example, the connection between the first PV array 110 and the field-configurable array 102 can be an external connection because the first PV array 110 is outside the field-configurable array 102. External connections can be configurable. For example, the first PV array 110 can be configured to disconnect and / or connect to an unconnected input 118. In another example, the power grid 116 can be configured to disconnect from one or more DC / AC power processing blocks 106 and connect to one or more alternative DC / AC power processing blocks. Internal controller 108a and / or external controller 108b can be used to configure the external connections of the field-configurable array 102.
[0031] In some embodiments, the field-configurable array 102 includes or is connected to three buses / rails for connections to and from the field-configurable array 102. For example, the first bus may be a DC bus, the second bus may be a different DC bus, and the third bus may be an AC bus. The first DC bus may be a common bus for connections within the field-configurable array 102. For example, both the output side of the DC / DC power processing block 104 and the input side of the DC / AC power processing block 106 may be connected to the first DC bus. The second DC bus may be a common bus for the inputs or outputs of the field-configurable array 102 (in the case of energy storage device 114). For example, the PV array and energy storage device may output DC power to the second DC bus, which then serves as an input to the DC / DC power processing block 104 of the field-configurable array 102. The third AC bus may similarly be a common bus from the outputs or inputs of the field-configurable array 102 (if energy storage device 114 is being used). For example, the output of the DC / AC power processing block 106 may be connected to the AC bus, which is connected to the power grid 116.
[0032] Figure 2This is a schematic diagram of an example system 200 comprising a field-configurable array 202 including a power processing block, in an alternative configuration according to aspects of this disclosure. Figure 1 Compared to the instance system 100, the field-configurable array 202 includes different numbers of DC / DC power processing blocks 204 and DC / AC power processing blocks 206. Although Figure 1 The instance field-configurable array 102 has an equal number (e.g., 8) of DC / DC power processing blocks 104 and DC / AC power processing blocks 106, but Figure 2 The field-configurable array 202 has more DC / DC power processing blocks 204 (e.g., 12) than DC / AC power processing blocks 204 (e.g., 4). In some embodiments, the number of DC / AC power processing blocks 206 is reduced relative to DC / DC power processing blocks 204 because the DC / AC power processing blocks 206 operate at a higher maximum power level than the DC / DC power processing blocks 204.
[0033] In some embodiments, the number of DC / AC power processing blocks 206 is reduced relative to DC / DC power processing blocks 204 due to different input / output requirements to and from the field-configurable array 202. For example, the field-configurable array 202 may include an energy storage device 214 configured to charge when the first PV array 210 and the second PV array 212 generate power and to discharge when the first PV array 210 and the second PV array 212 do not generate power. In this example, the energy storage device 214 may need to be connected to the DC / DC power processing block (e.g., for storing power) when the PV arrays 210, 212 are generating power, but the energy storage device 214 only uses the DC / AC power processing block 206 when discharging to the grid 216. Therefore, when PV arrays 210 and 212 generate power, DC / AC power processing block 206 can be used to release power from PV arrays 210 and 212 to the grid 216, and when PV arrays 210 and 212 do not generate power, it can be used to release power from energy storage device 214 to the grid. Therefore, because DC / AC power processing block 206 is not used simultaneously by both PV arrays 210 and 212 and energy storage device 214, fewer DC / AC power processing blocks 206 are needed compared to DC / DC power processing block 204.
[0034] DC / DC power processing block 204 can be configured to become DC / AC power processing block 206. Similarly, DC / AC power processing block 206 can be configured to become DC / DC power processing block 204. In some embodiments, the number of DC / DC power processing blocks 204 and / or the number of DC / AC power processing blocks 206 can be adjusted by a controller (e.g., 208a, 208b). For example, internal controller 210a can increase the number of DC / AC power processing blocks 206 by converting one or more DC / DC power processing blocks 204 into one or more DC / AC power processing blocks 206. Alternatively, internal controller 210a can increase the number of DC / DC power processing blocks 204 by converting one or more DC / AC power processing blocks 206 into one or more DC / DC power processing blocks 204. In some embodiments, the controller may receive information from connected inputs (e.g., PV arrays 210, 212, energy storage device 214) and outputs (e.g., power grid 216) and use the information to change the ratio of DC / DC power processing block 204 to DC / AC power processing block 206. The information may include real-time measurements such as the power generated by the PV array, the capacity of the energy storage device, the charge level of the energy storage device, the operational health of various systems (e.g., failures of the PV array, energy storage device, DC / DC and / or DC / AC power converters), any faults in subsystems (e.g., connections between components), and other considerations.
[0035] In some embodiments, the controller (e.g., 208a, 208b) includes wired and / or wireless connectivity, enabling a remote user to configure the controller and / or instruct the controller to perform one or more actions. For example, a remote user may instruct the controller to convert one or more DC / DC power converters into one or more DC / AC power converters. In another instance, a remote user may instruct the controller to change the inputs and / or outputs of a field-configurable array, such as converting non-connected 218 into a PV array. Alternatively or concurrently, if the controller is configured in a dynamic operating mode, it may perform such functions automatically. The controller may include one or more processors that communicate with a computer-readable storage medium storing instructions, which, when executed by the processors, cause the controller to perform functions described elsewhere herein.
[0036] In some instances, it may be advantageous to reduce the number of DC / DC power processing blocks 204 relative to the number of DC / AC power processing blocks 206. For example, the number of DC / DC power processing blocks 204 and DC / AC power processing blocks 206 may initially be configured such that the field-configurable array 202 operates at maximum power input from the PV array and / or energy storage device. However, the PV array and / or energy storage device does not always operate at maximum power output of the field-configurable array 202. By reducing the number of DC / DC power processing blocks used, each DC / DC power processing block can operate closer to its rated maximum power, which is consistent with improved conversion efficiency. In some instances, to achieve this efficiency improvement, a controller (e.g., internal controller 208a) may change which inputs of the field-configurable array are connected to each DC / DC power processing block. For example, internal controller 208a may disconnect the first PV array from the first DC / DC power processing block and connect the first PV array to a second power processing block that is also connected to a second PV array. In this example, the second DC / DC power processing block can operate closer to its maximum rated power level to improve efficiency, while the first DC / DC power processing block can be disconnected and / or reconfigured to become a DC / AC power converter.
[0037] Figure 3A This is a schematic diagram of an example system 300 comprising a field-configurable array 302 including power processing blocks, presented in a first configuration according to aspects of this disclosure. In the first configuration, a first PV array 310 is connected to the power processing blocks of a first group 330, and a second PV array 312 is connected to the power processing blocks of a second group 332. Additionally, the first configuration includes a first disconnection 318a and a second disconnection 318b. Disconnections 318a and 318b may each represent a connection point that is currently not connected but may be connected in the future. Figure 3A In one embodiment, the first non-connection 318a is connected to the power processing block of the third group 334, while the second non-connection 318b is connected to the power processing block of the fourth group 336. As in Figure 3AIn some embodiments, the power processing blocks of the third and fourth groups 334, 336 can be pre-configured to simplify new connections to the field-configurable array 302. Alternatively, in some embodiments, the power processing blocks of the third and fourth groups 334, 336 can be configured in real-time to adapt to changes in the connection of the PV array and / or energy storage devices. For example, one or more power processing blocks in the first and / or second groups 330, 332 may fail. In this case, one or more processing blocks from the third and / or fourth groups 334, 336 can be used to replace the functionality of the inoperable power processing blocks. In some instances, if a type of power processing block fails (e.g., a DC / AC power processing block) and no replacement of that type is available, the controller (e.g., 308) can configure other types of power processing blocks (e.g., DC / DC power processing blocks) to replace it. The controller can perform this function automatically, which increases the fault tolerance of the field-configurable array 302 and reduces downtime.
[0038] In some embodiments, power processing block groups 330, 332, 334, and 336 may be independently connected to the power grid 316. Alternatively, in some embodiments, one or more of the power processing block groups 330, 332, 334, and 336 are coupled together to, for example, a common AC bus before being connected to the power grid 316.
[0039] Figure 3B The second configuration is included according to aspects of this disclosure. Figure 3A A schematic diagram of an example system 300 of a field-configurable array 302 of power processing blocks. In a second configuration, a third PV array 320 is connected to a power processing block in a third group 334 that replaces the first non-connected block 318a. Additionally, an energy storage device 314 is connected to a power processing block in a fourth group 336 that replaces the second non-connected block 318b. Therefore, the second configuration differs from the first configuration in that it adds additional PV capacity and energy storage. By including and enabling additional DC / DC and DC / AC power processing blocks, the field-configurable array 302 can be configured to accept additional inputs / outputs. This ability to accept additional inputs / outputs improves the adaptability and scalability of the field-configurable array 302 and the corresponding power plant (e.g., PV array).
[0040] To ensure proper operation of additional inputs / outputs, controller 308 can configure the power processing blocks of the third group 334 to operate in the same manner as the power processing blocks of the first and second groups 330, 332. Furthermore, controller 308 can configure the power processing blocks of the fourth group 336 to operate, allowing power to both flow into and out of the energy storage device 314. For example, controller 308 can selectively enable connections between power processing block groups to allow power to be directed from PV arrays 310, 312, 320 to the energy storage device 314. Additionally, controller 308 can selectively disable connections between power processing block groups and enable connections between the power processing blocks of the fourth group 336 and the power grid 316 to allow power to be directed from the energy storage device 314 to the power grid 316 and vice versa.
[0041] Figure 3C It is a third configuration included according to aspects of this disclosure. Figure 3A This is a schematic diagram of an example system of a field-configurable array of power processing blocks. In the third configuration, the same inputs / outputs as the second configuration are used. For example, the first PV array 310, the second PV array 312, and the third PV array 320 are used as inputs, while the energy storage device 314 and the power grid 316 are used as inputs / outputs (e.g., for charging / discharging the energy storage device). However, compared to the second configuration, the power processing blocks of the field-configurable array are configured differently. Specifically, both the first PV array 310 and the second PV array 312 are connected to the power processing blocks of the fifth group 340. The power processing blocks of the fifth group 340 include four DC / DC power processing blocks and two DC / AC power processing blocks. This configuration can be used when the DC / AC power processing blocks can operate at twice the maximum power of the DC / DC power processing blocks. Furthermore, the third PV array 320 is connected to the power processing blocks of the sixth group 342. The sixth group includes the same number of power processing blocks as the third group 334, but the physical power processing blocks used are different. Additionally, energy storage device 314 is connected to the power processing block of the seventh group 344. Figure 3B Compared to the second configuration described herein, the power processing block of group 344 is limited to a DC / DC power processing block. However, the power processing block of group 344 can be used in conjunction with the power processing block of group 346, which includes only a DC / AC circuit processing block. For example, the output of the DC / DC power converter of the power processing block of group 344 can be connected to the input of the DC / AC power converter of the power processing block of group 346.
[0042] Figure 4This is a schematic diagram of an example system of a field-configurable array including power processing blocks in a fourth configuration according to aspects of this disclosure. In the illustrated example, a first PV array 410 is connected to the power processing blocks of a first group 430, a second PV array 412 is connected to the power processing blocks of a second group 432, and an energy storage device 414 is connected to the power processing blocks of a third group 434. The power processing blocks of the first, second, and third groups 430, 432, and 434 consist only of DC / DC power processing blocks. Additionally, the power processing blocks of the fourth group 436 and the fifth group 436 consist only of DC / AC power processing blocks. The power processing blocks of the first and second groups 430 and 432 are connected to the power processing blocks of the fourth group 436 to enable power from the first and second PV arrays 410 and 412 to be output to the power grid. In some embodiments, the power processing blocks of the first and second groups 430 and 432 are connected to the power processing blocks of the third group 434 to enable power from the first and second PV arrays 410 and 412 to be output to the energy storage device 414. The power processing blocks of the third group 434 can be connected to the power processing blocks of the fifth group 438 so that the energy storage device 414 can both output energy to and receive energy from the grid 416. In the fourth configuration, the energy storage device 414 is connected to more DC / DC power processing blocks than to each individual PV array, because the energy storage device 414 can be larger than the PV arrays (e.g., larger capacity). Additionally, by having DC / AC power processing blocks in a separate group from the DC / DC power processing blocks, the controller 408 can dynamically adjust how much power from each of the DC sources (e.g., the first PV array 410, the second PV array 412, and the energy storage device 414) is output through the DC / AC power processing blocks.
[0043] Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of an example power processing block 506 configured in a DC / AC manner according to aspects of this disclosure. Power processing block 506 includes a series of sub-processing blocks 550a, 550b, and 550c connected in parallel with each other. Although three sub-processing blocks 550a, 550b, and 550c are illustrated, any number of sub-processing blocks can be used. Each sub-processing block 550a, 550b, and 550c is rated to operate at a maximum power level. Connecting sub-processing blocks 550a, 550b, and 550c in parallel increases the maximum power level at which power processing block 506 can operate. In some instances, each of the sub-processing blocks 550a, 550b, and 550c can operate as one phase of a multiphase (e.g., three-phase) system.
[0044] Each of sub-processing blocks 550a, 550b, and 550c includes three power converters 552, but any number of power converters may be used. The converters 552 may be interconnected, and in some instances, two or more of the power converters 552 may operate together. The power converters 552 may each be used for one phase of a multiphase (e.g., three-phase) system, and / or may be used together for one phase of a multiphase system. Generally, sub-processing blocks 550a, 550b, and 550c may each operate to convert DC voltage to AC voltage. In some embodiments, the power converter 552 includes a half-bridge converter circuit. Other circuit topologies may be used for sub-processing blocks 550a, 550b, and 550c, and this disclosure is not limited to the use of half-bridge converter circuits. For example, in some embodiments, each of sub-processing blocks 550a, 550b, and 550c includes a single full-bridge converter circuit and / or an active neutral-point clamping bridge.
[0045] The power processing block 506 further includes a control board 554, which can be configured to control the power converters 552 of the sub-processing blocks 550a, 550b, 550c and / or each of the sub-processing blocks 550a, 550b, 550c. For example, the control board 554 can be configured to operate a specific group of sub-processing blocks 550a, 550b, 550c depending on power level requirements and / or phase requirements. The power processing block 506 further includes inductors 556a, 556b, 556c. Although in Figure 5 The example illustrates multiple inductors 556a, 556b, and 556c, but in some embodiments, any number of inductors (e.g., a larger inductor) may be used. Inductors 556a, 556b, and 556c are connected to their respective sub-processing blocks 550a, 550b, and 550c and can be combined with sub-processing blocks 550a, 550b, and 550c to output an AC voltage from a DC input voltage. In some instances, the AC output voltage may be adjusted via a control board 554. For example, control board 554 may control the switching of the power converter 552 and / or PWM to adjust the AC output voltage. Power processing block 506 also includes input capacitors 558a, 558b, and 558c. Although in Figure 5 The example illustrates multiple input capacitors 558a, 558b, and 558c, but any number of capacitors can be used. Input capacitors 558a, 558b, and 558c are connected to their respective sub-processing blocks 550a, 550b, and 550c, and can be combined with sub-processing blocks 550a, 550b, and 550c to output AC voltage from a DC input voltage.
[0046] Figure 6This is a schematic diagram of an example power processing block 604 configured according to aspects of this disclosure in a DC / DC configuration. Power processing block 604 comprises two groups of three sub-processing blocks 650. Within one group, the three sub-processing blocks 650a, 650b, and 650c are connected in parallel with each other. However, the two groups are connected in series with each other. Although three sub-processing blocks 650a, 650b, and 650c are described, any number of sub-processing blocks can be used in each group. Each sub-processing block 650a, 650b, and 650c is rated to operate at a maximum power level. Connecting the sub-processing blocks in parallel within each group increases the maximum power level at which power processing block 604 can operate. In some instances, each of the sub-processing blocks 650a, 650b, and 650c can operate as one phase of a multiphase (e.g., three-phase) system.
[0047] Each of the sub-processing blocks 650a, 650b, and 650c contains three power converters 652, but any number of power converters can be used. The converters 652 can be connected to each other, and in some instances, two or more of the power converters 652 operate together. The power converters 652 can each be used for one phase of a multiphase (e.g., three-phase) system and / or can be used together for one phase of a multiphase system. Generally, the sub-processing blocks 650a, 650b, and 650c can each operate to convert DC voltage to AC voltage. However, by using two sets of sub-processing blocks 650a, 650b, and 650c connected in series, DC voltage can be converted to AC voltage in the first set of sub-processing blocks, and subsequently converted from AC voltage to DC voltage in the second set of sub-processing blocks. In some embodiments, with Figure 5 Similar to power processing block 506, power converter 652 includes a half-bridge converter circuit. Other circuit topologies may be used for sub-processing blocks 650a, 650b, and 650c, and this disclosure is not limited to the use of half-bridge converter circuits. For example, in some embodiments, each of sub-processing blocks 650a, 650b, and 650c includes a single full-bridge converter circuit and / or an active neutral point clamping bridge.
[0048] The power processing block 604 further includes a control board 654, which can be configured to control the two sets of sub-processing blocks 650a, 650b, 650c and / or the power converter 652 of each sub-processing block. For example, the control board 654 can be configured to operate some of the sub-processing blocks 650a, 650b, 650c depending on power level requirements and / or phase requirements. The power processing block 604 also includes inductors 656a, 656b, 656c. Although in Figure 6The examples illustrate multiple inductors 656a, 656b, 656c, but in some embodiments, any number of inductors (e.g., a larger inductor) may be used. Inductors 656a, 656b, 656c are connected on each side to their respective sub-processing blocks 650a, 650b, 650c, and two sets of sub-processing blocks may be combined for outputting a DC voltage from a DC input voltage. The DC output voltage may be higher, lower, or equal to the DC input voltage and, in some embodiments, may be adjusted via a control board 654. For example, control board 654 may control the switching and / or PWM of power converter 652 to adjust the output DC voltage. Power processing block 604 also includes input capacitors 658a, 658b, 658c and output capacitors 660a, 660b, 660c. Although in Figure 6 The example illustrates multiple input / output capacitors, but any number of capacitors can be used. Input capacitors 658a, 658b, and 658c are connected to the first group of their respective sub-processing blocks and can be used in conjunction with the first group of sub-processing blocks to output AC voltage from DC input voltage. Similarly, output capacitors 660a, 660b, and 660c are connected to the second group of their respective sub-processing blocks and can be used in conjunction with the second group of sub-processing blocks to output DC voltage from AC input voltage (e.g., from the first group of sub-processing blocks).
[0049] General reference Figures 1 to 6 The DC / DC power processing block can be configured to become a DC / AC power processing block, and the DC / AC power processing block can be configured to become a DC / DC power processing block. To achieve this configurability, each sub-processing block (e.g., 550a, 650a) can be connected / disconnected to one of a first DC bus, a second DC bus, and a third AC bus (also referred to as the "AC bus"). Furthermore, each sub-processing block can be connected / disconnected to additional components (e.g., inductors (e.g., 556a, 656a) and capacitors (e.g., 558a, 658a, 660a)) to enable the sub-processing block to function as either a DC / AC power processing block or a DC / DC power processing block (e.g., when connected in series with another sub-processing block).
[0050] In some embodiments, the DC / DC power processing block can be configured to become two DC / AC power processing blocks by connecting / disconnecting the inputs and / or outputs of each sub-processing block comprising the DC / DC power processing block to a first DC bus, a second DC bus, and an AC bus. For example, the first sub-processing block (e.g., Figure 6 The left side) can make its output interact with the second sub-processing block (e.g. Figure 6The input of the second sub-processing block (on the right side) is disconnected and reconnected to the AC bus. Furthermore, the second sub-processing block can disconnect its input from the first sub-processing block and its output from the first DC bus (e.g., for connections within a field-configurable array). The input of the second sub-processing block can then be connected to the AC bus, and the output of the second sub-processing block can be connected to the second DC bus (e.g., for connection to a PV array).
[0051] To connect / disconnect the inputs and outputs of each sub-processing block, a controller (e.g., 108a, 108b) can control switches within the field-configurable array. Switches may include mechanical switches (e.g., relays), electronic switches (e.g., transistors), and / or the like. In some embodiments, the controller can adjust the pulse-width modulation (PWM) signal and / or switching mode of each sub-processing block to enable it to operate as either a DC / DC power processing block or a DC / AC power processing block.
[0052] Figure 7A This is a schematic diagram of an example sub-processing block 750a according to an aspect of this disclosure. (and) Figure 5 and Figure 6 Compared to the sub-processing block, sub-processing block 750a includes six power converters 752a, 752b, and 752c. Power converters 752a, 752b, and 752c can be connected to each other, and in some instances, two or more of converters 752a, 752b, and 752c operate together. For example, in the illustrated embodiment, power converters 752a are connected together, power converters 752b are connected together, and power converters 752c are connected together. Generally, sub-processing block 750a is configured to convert DC voltage to AC voltage. As illustrated, sub-processing block 750a can be connected to a DC bus acting as an input, and sub-processing block 750a can receive DC voltage from the DC bus. Then, in converting DC voltage to AC voltage, each of the power converters 752a, 752b, and 752c can be used for one phase of a three-phase AC power system. Each of the power converters 752a, 752b, and 752c may include various circuit topologies, including but not limited to half-bridge converters, active neutral-point clamp converters, and full-bridge converters.
[0053] Sub-processing block 750a also includes inductor 756. While multiple inductors 756 are described, in some instances, any number of inductors (e.g., a larger inductor) may be used. Inductor 756 is connected on one side to the corresponding power converters 752a, 752b, 752c and, in corresponding pairs, connected together to the output (e.g., one phase of a three-phase AC system). Inductor 756 may be used in conjunction with power converters 752a, 752b, 752c to output AC voltage from a DC input voltage. In some instances, one or more input and / or output capacitors may be included within sub-processing block 750a. Input and / or output capacitors may be used in conjunction with power converters 752a, 752b, 752c to output AC voltage from a DC input voltage.
[0054] Sub-processor block 750a may additionally include a control board 754, which can be configured to control the power converters 752a, 752b, and 752c of sub-processor block 750a. In some instances, control board 754 can adjust one or more phases of the AC output voltage from a given DC input voltage. For example, control board 754 can control the switching and / or PWM of power converters 752a, 752b, and 752c to adjust the AC output voltage. When operating as a DC / AC converter, sub-processor block 750a may have approximately 120 kW of additional AC output power.
[0055] Figure 7B This is a schematic diagram of an alternative subprocessing block 750b according to aspects of this disclosure. Figure 7B Sub-processing block 750b and Figure 7A The sub-processing block 750a is similar in that it contains six power converters 752, six inductors 756, and one controller 754. Although each power converter 752 is described as being connected to a separate inductor 756, any number of inductors (e.g., a larger inductor) can be used. However, sub-processing block 750b is similar to... Figure 7A The difference in sub-processing block 750a is that it includes a power converter 752 that is not connected together. Instead, the connection of the power converter 752 (e.g., on the right side of sub-processing block 750b) can each act as a bidirectional (e.g., input or output) power port. The bidirectional power port enables... Figure 7BSub-processor block 750b can operate as a DC / DC converter. Therefore, sub-processor block 750b is configured to convert a DC input voltage from one or more bidirectional power ports to a DC output voltage on one or more bidirectional power ports. Any number of bidirectional power ports can be configured as input DC ports. Similarly, any number of bidirectional power ports can be configured as output DC ports. In one example, the number of bidirectional ports configured as input DC ports is the same as the number of bidirectional ports configured as output DC ports. In some instances, while sub-processor block 750b may be connected to the DC bus on one side (e.g., the left side of sub-processor block 750b), in some configurations, sub-processor block 750b may not use the DC bus as an input or output. Although the bidirectional power ports / connections of the DC bus and power converters 752, 752a, 752b, 752c are described as individual connection lines, those skilled in the art will understand that each connection may contain multiple wires / connections. For example, a connection as a DC connection may include a positive DC connection and a negative connection.
[0056] As described, subprocessor 750b can act as a buck-boost converter, wherein the DC output voltage on one or more of the bidirectional power ports can be higher, lower, or equal to the DC input voltage on one or more of the bidirectional power ports. In some instances, the DC output voltage can be adjusted via controller 754. For example, controller 754 can control the switching of power converter 752 and / or PWM to adjust the output DC voltage.
[0057] refer to Figure 7A and 7BBoth sub-processing blocks 750a and 750b may have the same physical components and, in some embodiments, may be reconfigured to operate differently. For example, sub-processing block 750b configured to operate as a DC / DC converter (e.g., a buck-boost converter) may be reconfigured to operate as a DC / AC converter. Similarly, sub-processing block 750a configured to operate as a DC / AC converter may be reconfigured to operate as a DC / DC converter. To achieve this configurability, internal / external connections (e.g., jumpers) between the power converters may be connected or disconnected. Internal / external connections / disconnections may be performed manually (e.g., jumpers) and / or automatically (e.g., relays, switches, transistors). For example, sub-processing blocks 750a and 750b may include one DC bus connection and six bidirectional port connections. As illustrated by sub-processing block 750a, the six bidirectional ports may be connected in pairs, while in sub-processing block 750b, the six bidirectional ports may be disconnected. Therefore, to change operation, one or more of the six bidirectional ports may be connected together and / or disconnected from each other. In addition to or instead of connecting / disconnecting internal / external connections, controller 754 may change the switching and / or PWM of the power converter to reconfigure sub-processing block 750a or sub-processing block 750b to operate like another sub-processing block.
[0058] For example, although Figure 7A Sub-processing block 750a has been described as operating to convert a DC input voltage to an AC output voltage; however, in some embodiments, sub-processing block 750a may be configured to operate to convert a DC input voltage to a DC output voltage. In some such embodiments, the DC output voltage may be higher than the DC input voltage (e.g., a boost converter). While the physical connections may remain unchanged, a previous DC input (the left side of sub-processing block 750a) may become a DC output, and a previous AC output (the right side of sub-processing block 750a) may become a DC input. In some instances, the inputs are connected together to a common DC bus with a DC output voltage. Alternatively, one or more of the inputs may be separate (e.g., connected to different DC buses).
[0059] To enable sub-processor block 750a to operate as a DC / DC converter rather than a DC / AC converter, controller 754 can control the switching and / or PWM of power converters 752a, 752b, and 752c. Controller 754 can also control the switching and / or PWM of power converters 752a, 752b, and 752c to adjust the DC output voltage. In the illustrated embodiment, sub-processor block 750a can operate as a boost converter, taking an input DC voltage and outputting a DC voltage greater than the input DC voltage. When operating as a DC / DC converter, and more specifically as a boost converter, sub-processor block 750a can have a power rating greater than (e.g., at least twice) of its rated power when operating as a DC / AC converter. For example, when operating as a DC / DC boost converter, sub-processor block 750a can have a power rating of approximately 300 kW, which is more than twice that of its rated power when operating as a DC / AC converter.
[0060] Refer again Figure 7A and Figure 7B In some instances, one or more of the bidirectional ports and / or the DC connection may include electrical protection (e.g., fuses, contactors, relays, circuit breakers, open circuits). In some such instances, electrical protection is included only in a predetermined subset of the bidirectional ports and / or the DC connection. This predetermined subset of the bidirectional ports and / or the DC connection can be specifically selected such that if subprocessing blocks 750a, 750b are reconfigured to operate as a DC / DC converter or a DC / AC converter, the electrical protection continues to protect the bidirectional ports and / or the DC connection. Limiting electrical protection to a subset of the bidirectional ports can help reduce cost and complexity.
[0061] In some embodiments, the reconfigurability of sub-processing blocks 750a and 750b may be limited. For example, sub-processing block 750a may be limited to operating as a DC / AC converter or a DC / DC boost converter (e.g., rather than a DC / DC buck-boost converter). In some instances, to limit the reconfigurability of sub-processing blocks 750a and 750b, the connection between the bidirectional ports is restricted to a specific configuration (e.g., limited to paired connections). Limiting the reconfigurability of sub-processing blocks 750a and 750b can reduce the cost and complexity of sub-processing blocks 750a and 750b.
[0062] Figure 8This is a flowchart of an example method for configuring a field-configurable array of power processing blocks according to aspects of this disclosure. The process begins at 800, where the field-configurable array is configured to operate in a first configuration. For example, in the first configuration, the field-configurable array is connected to two inputs (a first PV array and a second PV array) and one output (the power grid). Next, at 810, the process continues to detect connection changes made to the field-configurable array. Continuing the example, the connection changes made to the field-configurable array include a second configuration. The second configuration differs from the first configuration in that a third PV array is connected to the field-configurable array as an input, and an energy storage device is connected to the field-configurable array as both an input and an output. In some instances, the controller of the field-configurable array is configured to detect connection changes. Next, at 820, the process continues to configure one or more power processing blocks to enable the field-configurable array to operate in a second configuration, which includes the changes made to the first configuration. Further continuing the example, additional DC / DC power processing blocks and DC / AC power processing blocks are allocated to the third PV array and the energy storage device. Additionally, the controller is configured to allow power to flow from the first, second, and third PV arrays to one or both of the power grid and the energy storage device via the power processing block. The controller is also configured to allow power to flow from the energy storage device to the power grid via the power processing block.
[0063] Various examples have been described. These and other examples are within the scope of the appended claims.
Claims
1. A configurable power block system, comprising: Multiple power processing blocks are configured to convert power before a first voltage is applied and a second voltage that is different from the first voltage. and Multiple switches, which can be configured to: Electrically connecting one or more of the plurality of power processing blocks to another one or more of the plurality of power processing blocks to form a group of power processing blocks; and The power processing blocks of the group are electrically connected to the first electrical connection and the second electrical connection.
2. The system of claim 1, wherein each of the plurality of power processing blocks comprises one or more sub-processing blocks configured to convert power between a first voltage and a second voltage, and each of the plurality of sub-processing blocks comprises a plurality of power converters.
3. The system according to claim 2 or any of the preceding claims, wherein the one or more sub-processing blocks are configured to convert power between a first DC voltage and an AC voltage.
4. The system according to claim 3 or any of the preceding claims, wherein the one or more subprocessing blocks are reconfigured to switch power between a first DC voltage and a second DC voltage.
5. The system according to claim 4 or any of the preceding claims, further comprising a control board in communication with each of the sub-processing blocks, the control board being configured to reconfigure the sub-processing blocks between switching power between the first DC voltage and the AC voltage and switching power between the first DC voltage and the second DC voltage.
6. The system according to claim 5 or any of the preceding claims, wherein the control board uses one or both of control switching or pulse width modulation (PWM) to reconfigure the subprocessing block.
7. The system according to claim 2 or any of the preceding claims, further comprising a control board configured to control the plurality of power converters to adjust the output voltage according to a given input voltage using control switching and / or pulse width modulation (PWM) of the power converters.
8. The system according to claim 2 or any of the preceding claims, wherein each of the power converters comprises one of a half-bridge converter, an active neutral-point clamping converter, or a full-bridge converter.
9. The system according to claim 2 or any of the preceding claims, wherein the first voltage is a first DC voltage and the second voltage is a second DC voltage, and wherein each of the sub-processing blocks is configured to act as a bidirectional power port.
10. The system according to claim 2 or any of the preceding claims, wherein each of the plurality of sub-processing blocks is configured to switch between AC voltage and DC voltage.
11. The system according to claim 10 or any of the preceding claims, wherein each of the plurality of subprocessing blocks is electrically connected to one or more other subprocessing blocks.
12. The system according to claim 11 or any of the preceding claims, wherein the plurality of subprocessing blocks are coupled into three pairs of subprocessing blocks, each pair of subprocessing blocks being configured to convert one phase of input DC power into AC output power.
13. The system according to claim 1 or any of the preceding claims, wherein the first voltage is a DC voltage and the second voltage is an AC voltage, and the second electrical connection is connected to the power grid.
14. The system according to claim 13 or any of the preceding claims, wherein the first electrical connection is connected to one or more solar panels.
15. The system according to claim 1 or any of the preceding claims, wherein the first voltage is a first DC voltage and the second voltage is a second DC voltage.
16. The system according to claim 15 or any of the preceding claims, wherein the first electrical connection is connected to one or more solar panels and the second electrical connection is connected to one or more energy storage devices.
17. The system according to claim 1 or any of the preceding claims, further comprising a second plurality of power processing blocks configured to convert power between a third voltage and a fourth voltage different from the third voltage; The plurality of switches can be further configured to: Electrically connecting one or more of the second plurality of power processing blocks to another one or more of the second plurality of power processing blocks to form a second group of power processing blocks; and The power processing block of the second group is electrically connected to the third and fourth electrical connections.
18. The system according to claim 17 or any of the preceding claims, wherein the fourth voltage is equivalent to the second voltage and includes an AC voltage, and the fourth electrical connection is equivalent to the second electrical connection and is connected to the power grid.
19. The system according to claim 1 or any of the preceding claims, further comprising a controller communicating with the plurality of power processing blocks and the plurality of switches, the controller being configured to: Determine the number of power processing blocks required for the first electrical connection; and The activation of the plurality of switches enables the specified number of power processing blocks required for the first electrical connection to connect to each other, the first electrical connection, and / or the second electrical connection.
20. The system of claim 19 or any of the preceding claims, wherein the controller is configured to determine the number of power processing blocks required for the first electrical connection based on the electrical load or power supply of the first electrical connection and based on one or more of the maximum rated power of the plurality of power processing blocks.
21. The system according to claim 20 or any of the preceding claims, wherein the controller receives from an external device the electrical load and / or the one or more maximum rated power of the plurality of power processing blocks connected to the first electrical connection.
22. The system of claim 19 or any of the preceding claims, wherein the plurality of power processing blocks comprises a first series of power processing blocks, the first voltage of the first series of power processing blocks being a first DC voltage, and the second voltage of the first series of power processing blocks being a second DC voltage, the first series of power processing blocks being configured to convert power between the first DC voltage and the second DC voltage.
23. The system of claim 22 or any of the preceding claims, wherein each of the first series of power processing blocks includes a first series of sub-processing blocks connected in series with a second series of sub-processing blocks, each of the first series and the second series of sub-processing blocks including a plurality of DC / AC converters, the first series of sub-processing blocks being configured to operate together with the second series of sub-processing blocks to convert power between a first DC voltage and a second DC voltage via an intermediate AC voltage.
24. The system according to claim 23 or any of the preceding claims, wherein the plurality of DC / AC converters include a half-bridge rectifier.
25. The system according to claim 22 or any of the preceding claims, wherein the plurality of power processing blocks includes a second series of power processing blocks, the first voltage of the second series of power processing blocks being the second DC voltage, and the second voltage of the second series of power processing blocks being an AC voltage.
26. The system of claim 25 or any of the preceding claims, wherein each of the second series of power processing blocks includes a first series of sub-processing blocks connected in parallel with the second series of sub-processing blocks, each of the first series and the second series of sub-processing blocks including a plurality of DC / AC converters, the first series of sub-processing blocks being configured to operate together with the second series of sub-processing blocks to convert power between the second DC voltage and the AC voltage.
27. The system according to claim 25 or any of the preceding claims, wherein, when determining the number of power processing blocks required for the first electrical connection, the controller is configured to determine the number of power processing blocks in the first series of power processing blocks and to determine the number of power processing blocks in the second series of power processing blocks.
28. The system according to claim 27 or any of the preceding claims, wherein the number of power processing blocks in the first series of power processing blocks is equal to the number of power processing blocks in the second series of power processing blocks.
29. The system according to claim 1 or any of the preceding claims, wherein the first electrical connection is connected to a photovoltaic (PV) array and the second electrical connection is connected to a power grid.
30. The system according to claim 1 or any of the preceding claims, wherein the first electrical connection is connected to the power grid and the second electrical connection is connected to a photovoltaic (PV) array.
31. A configurable power block system, comprising: The first series of power processing blocks are configured to switch between a first DC voltage and a second DC voltage; The second series of power processing blocks are configured to convert power between one of the second DC voltages and AC voltage; The first electrical input / output connection can be connected to the first electrical supply / load; A second electrical input / output connection, which can be connected to a second electrical supply / load; and Multiple switches, which can be configured to: One or more of the first series of power processing blocks are electrically connected to another one or more of the first series of power processing blocks to form a first group of power processing blocks, the first group of power processing blocks being configured to switch between the first DC voltage and the second DC voltage. One or more of the power processing blocks in the second series are electrically connected to another one or more of the power processing blocks in the second series to form a second group of power processing blocks, the second group of power processing blocks being configured to convert between the second DC voltage and the AC voltage. Connect the power processing block of the first group to the first power supply / load; and Connect the power processing block of the second group to the second power supply / load.
32. The system according to claim 31 or any of the preceding claims, wherein the first power supply / load is a photovoltaic (PV) array, and the second power supply / load is a power grid.
33. The system according to claim 31 or any of the preceding claims, wherein the plurality of switches are further configured to: One or more of the first series of power processing blocks are electrically connected to another one or more of the first series of power processing blocks to form a third group of power processing blocks, the third group of power processing blocks being configured to switch between the first DC voltage and the second DC voltage. One or more of the power processing blocks in the second series are electrically connected to another one or more of the power processing blocks in the second series to form a fourth group of power processing blocks, the fourth group of power processing blocks being configured to switch between the second DC voltage and the AC voltage. The power processing block of the third group is electrically connected to the third electrical input / output connection; and The power processing block of the fourth group is electrically connected to the second electrical input / output connection.
34. The system according to claim 33 or any of the preceding claims, wherein the third electrical input / output connection is connectable to a third electrical supply / load including an energy storage device, and the second electrical supply / load is a power grid.
35. A processing block for converting electrical power between a first voltage and a second voltage, comprising: Multiple sub-processing blocks, each of which is configured to convert power between a first voltage and a second voltage; Multiple inductors, each of which is coupled to a corresponding sub-processing block in the multiple sub-processing blocks; Multiple bidirectional ports, which can be coupled to one or more of the multiple sub-processing blocks; A control board, which communicates with each of the plurality of sub-processing blocks, is configured to: Controlling the switching of each of the plurality of sub-processing blocks to convert power between the first voltage and the second voltage; and Depending on the first voltage and the second voltage, one or more of the bidirectional ports are connected to one or more of the plurality of sub-processing blocks.
36. The processing block of claim 35, wherein the first voltage is a first DC voltage, and the second voltage is either a second DC voltage or an AC voltage.