Power conversion device

Abstract

[Problem] To enhance versatility as compared with a configuration using a dedicated circuit designed according to an intended use. [Solution] A power conversion device comprises a control unit that controls the switching states of a first leg, a second leg, and a third leg of a three-phase bridge circuit unit to operate the first leg, the second leg, and the third leg and enables the three-phase bridge circuit unit to execute a plurality of functions. The power conversion device comprises an instruction unit that provides the control unit with an instruction for, from among the plurality of functions, an execution function that the control unit causes the three-phase bridge circuit unit to execute. The plurality of functions include at least two of: a function that causes at least a part of the three-phase bridge circuit unit to serve as a DC / DC converter; a function that causes at least a part of the three-phase bridge circuit unit to serve as a DC / AC inverter or an AC / DC converter; and a function that causes at least a part of the three-phase bridge circuit unit to serve as a DC / AC inverter having a regenerative function that enables changing of an output frequency.

Description

Power conversion device

[0001] The present invention relates to a power conversion device.

[0002] Patent Document 1 discloses a power conversion device with little fluctuation in output voltage due to changes in load current. Examples of power conversion devices include DC / DC converter devices and inverter devices.

[0003] Japanese Unexamined Patent Application Publication No. 2020-150617

[0004] However, the DC / DC converter device and the inverter device that constitute the above-described power conversion device are each composed of a dedicated circuit, and the configuration of the power conversion device needs to be changed according to the application.

[0005] Therefore, the versatility is low, which has been an obstacle to reducing production costs.

[0006] The present invention has been made in view of the above problems, and an object thereof is to provide a power conversion device with high versatility as compared with a case where it is composed of a dedicated circuit designed according to the application.

[0007] According to one aspect of the present invention, a power conversion device that converts the form of input power and outputs it, having a first leg, a second leg, and a third leg connected between an anode terminal section and a cathode terminal section, respectively, a three-phase bridge circuit section having a first input / output terminal section of the first leg, a second input / output terminal section of the second leg, and a third input / output terminal section of the third leg, and controlling the switching state of the first leg, the switching state of the second leg, and the switching state of the third leg to operate the first leg, the second leg, and the third leg, respectively, so that the three-phase bridge circuit section can perform multiple functions. A power conversion device is provided, comprising a control unit and an instruction unit that instructs the control unit to perform an execution function from among the plurality of functions, wherein the plurality of functions include at least two of the following: a function to operate at least a part of the three-phase bridge circuit as a DC / DC converter; a function to operate at least a part of the three-phase bridge circuit as a DC / AC inverter or AC / DC converter; and a function to operate at least a part of the three-phase bridge circuit as a DC / AC inverter with a variable output frequency and regenerative function.

[0008] According to one aspect of the present invention, the power converter can cause the three-phase bridge circuit to perform functions according to its intended use based on instructions from an instruction unit. Therefore, the power converter can be used in multiple locations with different functions by operating the three-phase bridge circuit according to the application location.

[0009] Therefore, power converters can be made more versatile compared to those composed of dedicated circuits designed for specific applications.

[0010] Figure 1 is a block diagram showing an application example of the power converter according to this embodiment. Figure 2 is a circuit diagram showing the power converter according to this embodiment. Figure 3 is an explanatory diagram showing the contents of the ROM. Figure 4 is an explanatory diagram showing the contents of the memory. Figure 5 is an explanatory diagram showing an example in which a part of the three-phase bridge circuit is operated as a step-down DC / DC converter. Figure 6 is an explanatory diagram following Figure 5. Figure 7 is an explanatory diagram showing an example in which a part of the three-phase bridge circuit is operated as a step-up DC / DC converter. Figure 8 is an explanatory diagram following Figure 7. Figure 9 is an explanatory diagram showing an example in which the three-phase bridge circuit is operated as an interleaved current-reversible DC / DC converter. Figure 10 is an explanatory diagram showing an example in which the first leg of the three-phase bridge circuit is operated as a voltage-reversible step-up / step-down DC / DC converter. Figure 11 is a diagram showing a first example of use of the power converter. Figure 12 is a diagram showing a second example of use of the power converter. Figure 13 is a diagram showing a third example of use of the power converter. Figure 14 is a diagram showing a fourth example of use of the power converter. Figure 15 shows the fifth example of use of the power converter. Figure 16 shows the sixth example of use of the power converter. Figure 17 shows the seventh example of use of the power converter. Figure 18 shows the eighth example of use of the power converter. Figure 19 shows the ninth example of use of the power converter. Figure 20 shows the tenth example of use of the power converter. Figure 21 shows the eleventh example of use of the power converter. Figure 22 shows the twelfth example of use of the power converter. Figure 23 shows the thirteenth example of use of the power converter. Figure 24 shows the fourteenth example of use of the power converter. Figure 25 shows the fifteenth example of use of the power converter. Figure 26 shows the sixteenth example of use of the power converter. Figure 27 shows the seventeenth example of use of the power converter. Figure 28 shows the eighteenth example of use of the power converter. Figure 29 shows the nineteenth example of use of the power converter. Figure 30 shows the twentieth example of use of the power converter. Figure 31 shows the 21st example of use of the power converter. Figure 32 shows the 22nd example of use of the power converter. Figure 33 shows the 23rd example of use of the power converter. Figure 34 shows the 24th example of use of the power converter. Figure 35 is a block diagram showing the first modified example of the power converter.Figure 36 is a block diagram showing a second modified example of the power converter. Figure 37 is a block diagram showing a third modified example of the power converter. Figure 38 is a block diagram showing a fourth modified example of the power converter.

[0011] The power conversion device 10 according to an embodiment of the present invention will be described below with reference to the attached drawings.

[0012] First, with reference to Figure 1, the overall configuration of the power generation system 12 to which the power converter 10 is applied will be described. Figure 1 is a block diagram showing an example of the application of the power converter 10 according to this embodiment.

[0013] As shown in Figure 1, the power converter 10 is used in a power generation system 12 that includes a power generation device 20, for example. The power generation device 20 is a device that utilizes renewable energy. Examples of power generation devices 20 that utilize renewable energy include wind power generation devices, hydroelectric power generation devices, solar power generation devices, and geothermal power generation devices.

[0014] The power generation device 20 of this embodiment consists of a first power generation device 22 which is a wind power generation device that uses a wind turbine that rotates with wind power or a hydroelectric power generation device that uses a water turbine that rotates with water flow, and a second power generation device 24 which is a solar power generation device that generates electricity by shining sunlight on a solar panel.

[0015] The power generation system 12 comprises a PV (Photovolaics) system 30 which constitutes the second power generation device 24, and a generator 32 which constitutes the first power generation device 22.

[0016] The PV system 30 is connected to a DC bus 36 for power supply via a first DC / DC converter 34. The first DC / DC converter 34 stabilizes the solar-generated power to a constant voltage and outputs it to the DC bus 36.

[0017] The generator 32 is connected to the DC bus 36 via the first AC / DC three-phase inverter 38. The first AC / DC three-phase inverter 38 rectifies the three-phase AC power generated by wind power or hydropower into DC power and outputs it to the DC bus 36. Power is supplied to the DC bus 36 from the PV system 30 and the generator 32, which constitute the renewable energy power generation device 20.

[0018] The DC bus 36 is connected to the storage battery 40, which acts as a secondary battery, via a second DC / DC converter 39. The second DC / DC converter 39 can stabilize the power from the DC bus 36 to a predetermined voltage and output it to the storage battery 40. The second DC / DC converter 39 can also stabilize the power from the storage battery 40 to a predetermined voltage and output it to the DC bus 36.

[0019] The storage battery 40 is composed of a high-voltage battery that is installed in, for example, an electric vehicle 44 and supplies power to the motor that drives the electric vehicle 44. The storage battery 40 stores the power supplied from the power generation device 20 and can also supply the stored power to the power generation system 12.

[0020] The DC bus 36 is connected to the three-phase line 60 via a DC / AC three-phase inverter 50. The DC / AC three-phase inverter 50 converts the DC from the DC bus 36 to three-phase AC and outputs it to the three-phase line 60. The three-phase line 60 is disconnectably connected to the microgrid 64 via an internal connection point 62.

[0021] The microgrid 64 is a small-scale power system that, for example, utilizes renewable energy to achieve energy self-sufficiency in a specific area. Power from the DC bus 36 is supplied to the microgrid 64 via the DC / AC three-phase inverter 50.

[0022] The power generation system 12 includes a three-phase grid connection point 76 that disconnects the interconnection line 72 of the power company grid 70 and the grid interconnection transformer 74. The grid interconnection transformer 74 is connected to an AC / DC rectifier 80 via an interconnection three-phase line 78. The AC / DC rectifier 80 rectifies the three-phase alternating current from the interconnection three-phase line 78 into direct current and outputs it to a DC bus 36.

[0023] Each phase of the interconnection three-phase line 78 is connected to each phase of the three-phase line 60 via a distribution board 82. In addition, auxiliary equipment 86 that controls the operation and stopping of the wind turbines that make up the first power generation device 22, which is a wind power generation device or a water turbine that makes up a hydroelectric power generation device, is connected to the interconnection three-phase line 78.

[0024] The auxiliary equipment 86 operates using power supplied from the interconnection line 72 of the power company's grid 70 via the grid interconnection transformer 74, or power supplied from the DC busbar 36 via the DC / AC three-phase inverter 50 and the distribution board 82. When the auxiliary equipment 86 is operating, it allows the wind turbine of the wind power generation equipment or the water turbine of the hydroelectric power generation equipment that constitute the first power generation unit 22 to operate.

[0025] The first DC / DC converter 34, the first AC / DC three-phase inverter 38, the second DC / DC converter 39, the DC / AC three-phase inverter 50, and the AC / DC rectifier 80 of this power generation system 12 are all part of the power conversion device 10.

[0026] As an example, the first DC / DC converter 34 and the second DC / DC converter 39 can be configured as a power conversion device 10 that performs the functions of the seventh usage example (see Figure 17) described later. Also, the first AC / DC three-phase inverter 38, the AC / DC rectifier 80, and the DC / AC three-phase inverter 50 can be configured as a power conversion device 10 that performs the functions of the seventeenth usage example (see Figure 27) described later.

[0027] (Power Conversion Device) Next, the configuration of the power conversion device 10 will be described with reference to Figure 2. Figure 2 is a circuit diagram showing the power conversion device 10 according to this embodiment.

[0028] The power converter 10 is a device that converts the form of input power and outputs it. Converting the form of power includes converting the voltage level, converting between direct current and alternating current, and changing the frequency of alternating current.

[0029] As shown in Figure 2, the power converter 10 comprises a three-phase bridge circuit section 100 that constitutes the power conversion unit, and a control unit 102 that causes the three-phase bridge circuit section 100 to perform multiple functions. The power converter 10 also includes an instruction unit 104 that instructs the control unit 102 on the functions to be performed by the three-phase bridge circuit section 100.

[0030] (Three-phase bridge circuit section) The three-phase bridge circuit section 100 consists of a power circuit formed on the main circuit board 110. The main circuit board 110 is provided with an anode terminal section Tp, a cathode terminal section Tn, a first input / output terminal section T1, a second input / output terminal section T2, and a third input / output terminal section T3. Additional circuits 114, etc., can be connected to each of the terminal sections Tp, Tn, T1, T2, and T3. Note that each of the terminal sections Tp, Tn, T1, T2, and T3 indicates an electrical connection point.

[0031] Examples of additional circuits 114 include a DC inductor, an AC inductor, a DC power supply, a DC passive impedance, a three-phase AC power supply Pac3, a single-phase AC power supply Pac, and an AC passive impedance.

[0032] An inductor is composed of a coil (the same applies below).

[0033] Examples of bidirectional DC power sources include secondary batteries, EDLCs (electric double-layer capacitors), DC generators, and SMES (superconducting coils). Examples of unidirectional DC power sources include solar cells and fuel cells.

[0034] Examples of DC passive impedance include DC resistors, DC capacitors, and DC inductors. Examples of three-phase AC power supply Pac3 include three-phase AC generators (motors) and three-phase distribution lines. Examples of single-phase AC power supply Pac include single-phase distribution lines. Examples of AC passive impedance include AC resistors, AC capacitors, AC inductors (coils), and transformers (for three-phase and single-phase).

[0035] A voltage sensor 116 and a capacitor 118 are connected between the anode terminal Tp and the cathode terminal Tn. The voltage sensor 116 detects the voltage between the anode terminal Tp and the cathode terminal Tn and outputs the detected voltage value to the control unit 102. The capacitor 118 smooths the voltage applied between the anode terminal Tp and the cathode terminal Tn.

[0036] The three-phase bridge circuit section 100 has a first leg 120, a second leg 122, and a third leg 124 connected between the anode terminal section Tp and the cathode terminal section Tn, respectively.

[0037] (First Leg) The first leg 120 consists of a first upper arm 130 and a first lower arm 132.

[0038] The first upper arm 130 is composed of, for example, an NPN type first upper IGBT (insulated gate bipolar transistor) 140 and a first upper diode 142. The collector of the first upper IGBT 140 is connected to the anode terminal Tp. The cathode of the first upper diode 142 is connected to the collector of the first upper IGBT 140. The anode of the first upper diode 142 is connected to the emitter of the first upper IGBT 140.

[0039] The first lower arm 132 is composed of, for example, an NPN type first lower IGBT 144 and a first lower diode 146. The emitter of the first lower IGBT 144 is connected to the cathode terminal Tn. The collector of the first lower IGBT 144 is connected to the cathode of the first lower diode 146. The emitter of the first lower IGBT 144 is connected to the anode of the first lower diode 146.

[0040] The emitter of the first upper IGBT 140 is connected to the collector of the first lower IGBT 144, and the first upper arm 130 and the first lower arm 132 are connected. In the first leg 120, the connection point between the first upper arm 130 and the first lower arm 132 is connected to the first input / output terminal T1 via the first connection line 148.

[0041] The first connection line 148 is equipped with a first current sensor 150 that detects the current value of the current flowing through the first connection line 148. The first current sensor 150 outputs the detected current value to the control unit 102.

[0042] The gate driver of the first upper IGBT 140 is connected to the PWM signal generation circuit 160 of the control unit 102. The gate signal of the first upper IGBT 140 is connected to the gate driver of the first lower IGBT 144 via the first inverter circuit 162. When the first upper IGBT 140 is turned ON by the signal from the PWM signal generation circuit 160, the first lower IGBT 144 is turned OFF. When the first upper IGBT 140 is turned OFF by the signal from the PWM signal generation circuit 160, the first lower IGBT 144 is turned ON.

[0043] In the example of FIG. 2, an IGBT is shown as the power semiconductor switch, but the power semiconductor switch may be of any type as long as it is a self-extinguishing element such as a power transistor or a FET (field effect transistor).

[0044] (Second leg) The second leg 122 is composed of a second upper arm 170 and a second lower arm 172.

[0045] The second upper arm 170 is composed of, for example, an NPN-type second upper IGBT 180 and a second upper diode 182. The collector of the second upper IGBT 180 is connected to the anode terminal portion Tp. The cathode of the second upper diode 182 is connected to the collector of the second upper IGBT 180. The anode of the second upper diode 182 is connected to the emitter of the second upper IGBT 180.

[0046] The second lower arm 172 is composed of, for example, an NPN-type second lower IGBT 184 and a second lower diode 186. The emitter of the second lower IGBT 184 is connected to the cathode terminal portion Tn. The cathode of the second lower diode 186 is connected to the collector of the second lower IGBT 184. The anode of the second lower diode 186 is connected to the emitter of the second lower IGBT 184.

[0047] The emitter of the second upper IGBT 180 is connected to the collector of the second lower IGBT 184, and the second upper arm 170 and the second lower arm 172 are connected. The connection point between the second upper arm 170 and the second lower arm 172 in the second leg 122 is connected to the second input / output terminal portion T2 via the second connection line 188.

[0048] A second current sensor 152 for detecting the current value of the current flowing through the second connection line 188 is provided on the second connection line 188. The second current sensor 152 outputs the detected current value to the control unit 102.

[0049] The gate driver of the second upper IGBT 180 is connected to the PWM signal generation circuit 160 of the control unit 102. The gate signal of the second upper IGBT 180 is connected to the gate driver of the second lower IGBT 184 via the second inverter circuit 164. When the second upper IGBT 180 is turned ON by the signal from the PWM signal generation circuit 160, the second lower IGBT 184 is turned OFF. When the second upper IGBT 180 is turned OFF by the signal from the PWM signal generation circuit 160, the second lower IGBT 184 is turned ON.

[0050] (Third Leg) The third leg 124 consists of a third upper arm 190 and a third lower arm 192.

[0051] The third upper arm 190 is composed of, for example, an NPN type third upper IGBT 200 and a third upper diode 202. The collector of the third upper IGBT 200 is connected to the anode terminal Tp. The cathode of the third upper diode 202 is connected to the collector of the third upper IGBT 200. The anode of the third upper diode 202 is connected to the emitter of the third upper IGBT 200.

[0052] The third lower arm 192 is composed of, for example, an NPN type third lower IGBT 204 and a third lower diode 206. The emitter of the third lower IGBT 204 is connected to the cathode terminal Tn. The collector of the third lower IGBT 204 is connected to the cathode of the third lower diode 206. The emitter of the third lower IGBT 204 is connected to the anode of the third lower diode 206.

[0053] The emitter of the third upper IGBT 200 is connected to the collector of the third lower IGBT 204, and the third upper arm 190 and the third lower arm 192 are connected. In the third leg 124, the connection point between the third upper arm 190 and the third lower arm 192 is connected to the third input / output terminal T3 via the third connection line 208.

[0054] The third connection line 208 is equipped with a third current sensor 154 that detects the current value of the current flowing through the third connection line 208. The third current sensor 154 outputs the detected current value to the control unit 102.

[0055] The gate driver of the third upper IGBT 200 is connected to the PWM signal generation circuit 160 of the control unit 102. The gate signal of the third upper IGBT 200 is connected to the gate driver of the third lower IGBT 204 via the third inverter circuit 166. When the signal from the PWM signal generation circuit 160 turns the third upper IGBT 200 ON, the third lower IGBT 204 turns OFF. When the signal from the PWM signal generation circuit 160 turns the third upper IGBT 200 OFF, the third lower IGBT 204 turns ON.

[0056] (Control Unit) The control unit 102 controls the switching state of the first leg 120, the second leg 122, and the third leg 124 of the three-phase bridge circuit unit 100. As a result, the control unit 102 operates the first leg 120, the second leg 122, and the third leg 124 individually, causing the three-phase bridge circuit unit 100 to perform multiple functions.

[0057] The control unit 102 makes the three-phase bridge circuit 100 function together with an additional circuit 114 connected to at least one of the anode terminal Tp, cathode terminal Tn, first input / output terminal T1, second input / output terminal T2, or third input / output terminal T3. Alternatively, the control unit 102 makes the three-phase bridge circuit 100 function independently.

[0058] In this embodiment, as an example, one end of the first inductor L1, which constitutes the additional circuit 114, is connected to the first input / output terminal T1. The other end of the first inductor L1 is connected to the cathode terminal Tn via the first load Z1, which constitutes the DC load. Also, one end of the second inductor L2, which constitutes the additional circuit 114, is connected to the second input / output terminal T2. The other end of the second inductor L2 is connected to the third input / output terminal T3 via the second AC power supply P2ac, which is a single-phase AC power supply Pac. The positive electrode of the fourth power supply P4, which constitutes a high-voltage DC power supply, is connected to the anode terminal Tp. The negative electrode of the fourth power supply P4 is connected to the cathode terminal Tn.

[0059] With this configuration, the power converter 10 can boost the power received from the single-phase AC power supply Pac to the fourth voltage V4 of the fourth power supply P4, and then supply it to the first load Z1 as a first voltage V1 that is lower than the fourth voltage V4.

[0060] The first inductor L1 and the second inductor L2 may be omitted depending on the impedance of the first load Z1 or Pac.

[0061] The control unit 102 is composed of electronic circuits formed on the controller board 141. The controller board 141 is provided with a microcomputer 143 and a ROM 145, RAM 147, and non-volatile memory 149, which are connected to the microcomputer 143, respectively.

[0062] The microcomputer 143 performs various processes by reading and executing programs stored in the ROM 145. The control unit 102 causes the three-phase bridge circuit unit 100 to perform multiple functions by executing each process.

[0063] The microcomputer 143 reads and writes data to the RAM 147 and non-volatile memory 149 when executing each process according to the program. The microcomputer 143 can also be composed of multiple microcomputers.

[0064] The controller board 141 is equipped with a communication circuit 220, a PWM signal generation circuit 160, and an A / D converter 222, all of which are connected to the microcomputer 143.

[0065] The communication circuit 220 receives data from the instruction unit 104 connected to the communication circuit 220 and outputs it to the microcomputer 143. The A / D converter 222 outputs the current values ​​input from the current sensors 150, 152, and 154 of the three-phase bridge circuit unit 100 to the microcomputer 143. The PWM signal generation circuit 160 generates a PWM signal based on the control signal from the microcomputer 143 and outputs it to the legs 120, 122, and 124.

[0066] Next, we will explain ROM 145 with reference to Figure 3. Figure 3 is an explanatory diagram showing the contents stored in ROM 145.

[0067] (ROM) As shown in Figure 3, the ROM 145 stores a program that causes the control unit 102 to perform multiple functions on the three-phase bridge circuit unit 100.

[0068] Multiple functions include the ability to operate at least a portion of the three-phase bridge circuit section 100 as a DC / DC converter. The DC / DC converter includes a boost DC / DC converter that outputs a voltage higher than the input voltage and a buck DC / DC converter that outputs a voltage lower than the input voltage.

[0069] A boost DC / DC converter performs boost chopper operation. In boost chopper operation, the pass-through rate is controlled. Furthermore, a boost DC / DC converter has a carrier phase shift function corresponding to the number of interleaved phases. For example, in the case of three-phase interleaved, by shifting the phase of the triangular wave modulated by each leg 120, 122, and 124 by 120°, the combined three-phase DC input via the inductor has less ripple. A buck DC / DC converter performs buck chopper operation. In buck chopper operation, the pass-through rate is controlled. Furthermore, a buck DC / DC converter has a carrier phase shift function corresponding to the number of interleaved phases. A boost DC / DC converter, for example, in a two-phase interleaved circuit using two of the three legs 120, 122, and 124 (120, 122, and 124), fires the triangular waves, which are the modulated waves of both legs (120, 122, and 124), with a phase shift of 180°. As a result, the combined two-phase DC output via the inductor has less ripple.

[0070] The multiple functions include a function to operate at least a portion of the three-phase bridge circuit section 100 as a DC / AC inverter, and a function to operate at least a portion of the three-phase bridge circuit section 100 as a DC / AC inverter with a variable output frequency.

[0071] DC / AC inverters include three-phase inverters and single-phase inverters (details will be described later). DC / AC inverters with variable output frequency perform three-phase variable-speed inverter operation. In three-phase variable-speed inverter operation, three-phase motor VVVF variable-speed drive, PWM control, traction / regenerative control, and modulation rate control are performed.

[0072] Furthermore, the multiple functions include the function of operating the three-phase bridge circuit section 100 as a three-phase rectifier that converts three-phase AC to DC, and the function of operating the three-phase bridge circuit section 100 as a three-phase inverter that converts DC to three-phase AC. In addition, the multiple functions include the function of operating the three-phase bridge circuit section 100 as a single-phase rectifier that converts single-phase AC to DC, and the function of operating the three-phase bridge circuit section 100 as a single-phase inverter that converts DC to single-phase AC.

[0073] In this embodiment, the explanation will be given using the example where the programs for executing each of the aforementioned functions in the three-phase bridge circuit section 100 are stored in the ROM 145. However, it is sufficient for the ROM 145 to store programs for executing at least two of the aforementioned functions.

[0074] The three-phase inverter that makes up the DC / AC inverter performs three-phase CVCF inverter operation. In three-phase CVCF inverter operation, three-phase power zero-cross detection, PLL phase synchronization, and power factor -1 regeneration are performed. The three-phase converter performs three-phase CVCF converter operation. In three-phase CVCF converter operation, three-phase power zero-cross detection, PLL phase synchronization, and power factor +1 rectification are performed.

[0075] The single-phase inverter that makes up the DC / AC inverter performs single-phase CVCF inverter operation. In single-phase CVCF inverter operation, single-phase power zero-cross detection, PLL phase synchronization, and power factor -1 regeneration are performed. The single-phase converter performs single-phase CVCF converter operation. In single-phase CVCF converter operation, single-phase power zero-cross detection, PLL phase synchronization, and power factor +1 rectification are performed.

[0076] ROM 145 stores a leg application selection program 230 for selecting the application of each leg 120, 122, and 124 of the three-phase bridge circuit section 100. Each leg 120, 122, and 124 performs a function corresponding to the application selected by the leg application selection program 230.

[0077] Furthermore, ROM 145 stores, as an example of a program for executing multiple functions, a variable-speed AC / DC control program 232 for motor drive, an AC / DC control program 234 for power supply unit, and a DC / DC control program 236 for power supply unit.

[0078] Furthermore, ROM 145 stores many more programs to allow the three-phase bridge circuit section 100 to perform multiple functions, but the details are omitted.

[0079] The ROM 145 causes the microcomputer 143 of the control unit 102 to read and execute the program stored in the ROM 145, thereby causing the three-phase bridge circuit unit 100 to execute a function selected from a plurality of pre-prepared functions.

[0080] (Memory) Next, we will explain the memory 149, referring to Figure 4. Figure 4 is an explanatory diagram showing the contents of the memory 149.

[0081] As shown in Figure 4, the memory 149 is allocated a parameter storage area 240 for each application and a leg application selection result area 242.

[0082] The application-specific parameter storage area 240 stores parameters necessary for operating each leg 120, 122, and 124 for a selected application, categorized by application. The leg application selection result area 242 is allocated a first leg application area 244 where the application assigned to the first leg 120 is stored, and a second leg application area 246 where the application assigned to the second leg 122 is stored. In addition, the leg application selection result area 242 is allocated a third leg application area 248 where the application assigned to the third leg 124 is stored.

[0083] (Instruction Unit) As shown in Figure 2, the instruction unit 104 instructs the control unit 102 to execute one of several functions that the three-phase bridge circuit unit 100 can perform.

[0084] The instruction unit 104 sends the execution function selected by the user to the microcomputer 143 via the communication circuit 220 of the control unit 102. The microcomputer 143 stores the usage corresponding to the execution function assigned to each leg 120, 122, and 124 in the corresponding leg usage areas 244, 246, and 248, according to the execution function sent from the instruction unit 104. The recording to each leg usage area 244, 246, and 248 is performed by the leg usage selection program 230.

[0085] Then, the microcomputer 143 reads and executes programs from the ROM 145 to operate each leg 120, 122, and 124 according to the purpose stored in each leg's application area 244, 246, and 248. When executing each program, the microcomputer 143 reads and uses the necessary parameters from the application-specific parameter storage area 240.

[0086] The instruction unit 104 can be configured as a toggle switch that sends the execution function set by the user's operation to the communication circuit 220. Alternatively, the instruction unit 104 can be configured as a ROM card in which the execution function is stored, and a card slot that reads the execution function from the ROM card inserted by the user and sends it to the communication circuit 220. Furthermore, the instruction unit 104 can be configured as a communication system that transmits the execution function set by the user to the communication circuit 220 via CAN communication or the like.

[0087] (Basic Functions) Next, the basic functions performed by the three-phase bridge circuit section 100 will be explained with reference to Figures 5 to 10. Note that the circuit configuration and operation of the DC / DC converter, etc., are generally known and will be explained briefly. Also, each drawing shows only the necessary parts of the three-phase bridge circuit section 100. The control unit 102 and the indicator unit 104 are omitted in each drawing.

[0088] (Step-down DC / DC converter) Figure 5 is an explanatory diagram showing an example in which a part of the three-phase bridge circuit section 100 is operated as a step-down DC / DC converter. Figure 6 is an explanatory diagram following Figure 5.

[0089] Figures 5 and 6 show an example in which the three-phase bridge circuit section 100 functions as a step-down DC / DC converter (step-down chopper operation: step-down discharge). One example of its application is a step-down charging device.

[0090] A fourth power supply P4, consisting of a high-voltage power supply, is connected between the anode terminal Tp and cathode terminal Tn of the three-phase bridge circuit section 100 via an anode-side inductor Lp, which is an additional circuit 114. The positive terminal of the first power supply P1, consisting of a secondary battery, is connected to the first input / output terminal T1 of the first leg 120 via a first inductor L1, which is an additional circuit 114. The negative terminal of the first power supply P1 is connected to the cathode terminal Tn. Note that the anode-side inductor Lp can sometimes be replaced by the inductance of the wiring.

[0091] The microcomputer 143 of the control unit 102 reads and executes a program for the step-down DC / DC converter from the ROM 145 according to instructions from the instruction unit 104. Then, the control unit 102 operates the first leg 120 of the three-phase bridge circuit 100 as a step-down DC / DC converter. At this time, the control unit 102 chops the first upper IGBT 140 of the first leg 120 and charges the secondary battery of the first power supply P1 with a voltage lower than the fourth voltage V4 of the fourth power supply P4.

[0092] In short, the control unit 102 recognizes that the voltage value from the voltage sensor 116 is the fourth voltage V4 of the fourth power supply P4, turns on the first upper IGBT 140 of the first leg 120, and supplies power to the secondary battery, which is the first power supply P1, via the first inductor L1 (see Figure 5). The control unit 102 calculates the energizing time and the cutoff time based on the current difference between the target charging current and the current Ib obtained by the first current sensor 150, and the ratio of the fourth voltage V4 of the fourth power supply P4 to the first voltage V1 as the charging voltage. If the first upper IGBT 140 is turned on during the calculated energizing time, the control unit 102 turns off the first upper IGBT 140 (see Figure 6). Then, the charge voltage charged in the first inductor L1 is applied to the secondary battery, which is the first power supply P1, via the first lower diode 146. After the calculated cutoff time has elapsed, the control unit 102 turns on the first upper IGBT 140 (see Figure 5).

[0093] In this way, the control unit 102 operates the three-phase bridge circuit section 100 as a step-down DC / DC converter by chopper-controlling the switching state of the first leg 120 according to the program stored in the ROM 145.

[0094] (Boost-type DC / DC converter) Figure 7 is an explanatory diagram showing an example in which a part of the three-phase bridge circuit section 100 is operated as a boost-type DC / DC converter. Figure 8 is an explanatory diagram following Figure 7.

[0095] Figures 7 and 8 show an example in which the three-phase bridge circuit section 100 functions as a boost DC / DC converter (boost chopper operation: boost discharge). One example of its application is a boost power supply.

[0096] A fourth load Z4 is connected between the anode terminal Tp and cathode terminal Tn of the three-phase bridge circuit section 100 via an anode-side inductor Lp, which is an additional circuit 114. The positive terminal of the first power supply P1, which constitutes the low-voltage power supply, is connected to the first input / output terminal T1 of the first leg 120 via a first inductor L1, which is an additional circuit 114. The negative terminal of the first power supply P1 is connected to the cathode terminal Tn. Note that the anode-side inductor Lp may be omitted depending on the impedance of the fourth load Z4.

[0097] The microcomputer 143 of the control unit 102 reads a program for the boost DC / DC converter from the ROM 145 and executes it according to instructions from the instruction unit 104, thereby operating the three-phase bridge circuit 100 as a boost DC / DC converter. The control unit 102 chops the first lower IGBT 144 of the first leg 120 and boosts the first voltage V1 of the first power supply P1 to supply the fourth voltage V4 to the fourth load Z4.

[0098] In short, the control unit 102 turns on the first lower IGBT 144 of the first leg 120 and applies the first voltage V1 of the first power supply P1 to the first inductor L1 (see Figure 7). The control unit 102 then calculates the energizing time and cutoff time based on the current difference between the target charging current and the current Ib obtained by the first current sensor 150, and the ratio of the target output voltage applied to the fourth load Z4 to the first voltage V1 of the first power supply P1. If the first lower IGBT 144 is turned on during the calculated energizing time, the control unit 102 turns it off (see Figure 8). Then, the sum of the first voltage V1 of the first power supply P1 and the charge voltage charged to the first inductor L1 is applied to the fourth load Z4 via the first upper diode 142 and the anode side inductor Lp. The control unit 102 then turns on the first lower IGBT 144 after the calculated cutoff time has elapsed (see Figure 7).

[0099] In this way, the control unit 102 operates the three-phase bridge circuit section 100 as a boost DC / DC converter by chopper-controlling the switching state of the first leg 120 according to the program stored in the ROM 145.

[0100] (Interleaved DC / DC Converter) Figure 9 is an explanatory diagram showing an example in which the three-phase bridge circuit section 100 is operated as an interleaved, current-reversible DC / DC converter.

[0101] Figure 9 shows an example in which the three-phase bridge circuit section 100 functions as an interleaved DC / DC converter (interleaved step-down chopper operation). One example of its application is a step-down power supply.

[0102] A fourth power supply P4 is connected between the anode terminal Tp and cathode terminal Tn of the three-phase bridge circuit section 100. One end of the first load Z1 is connected to the first input / output terminal T1 of the first leg 120 via a first inductor L1, which is an additional circuit 114. The other end of the first load Z1 is connected to the cathode terminal Tn. Also, the second input / output terminal T2 of the second leg 122 is connected to one end of the first load Z1 via a second inductor L2, which is an additional circuit 114.

[0103] As a result, the first input / output terminal T1 of the first leg 120 is connected to one end of the first load Z1 via the first inductor L1, and the second input / output terminal T2 of the second leg 122 is connected via the second inductor L2.

[0104] The microcomputer 143 of the control unit 102 reads and executes a program for the interleaved DC / DC converter from the ROM 145 according to instructions from the instruction unit 104. Then, the control unit 102 operates the three-phase bridge circuit unit 100 as an interleaved DC / DC converter. As a result, the control unit 102 chops the first upper IGBT 140 of the first leg 120 and the second upper IGBT 180 of the second leg 122, and supplies power at a first voltage V1 lower than the fourth voltage V4 between the anode terminal Tp and the cathode terminal Tn to the first load Z1.

[0105] Furthermore, the control unit 102 suppresses voltage ripple in the first voltage V1 by shifting the switching timing between the first upper IGBT 140 of the first leg 120 and the second upper IGBT 180 of the second leg 122.

[0106] (Voltage reversible step-up / step-down DC / DC converter: First leg) Figure 10 is an explanatory diagram showing an example in which the first leg 120 of the three-phase bridge circuit section 100 is operated as a voltage reversible step-up / step-down DC / DC converter.

[0107] Figure 10 shows an example in which the three-phase bridge circuit section 100 functions as a reversible step-up / step-down DC / DC converter (chopper operation). One example of its application is a power supply unit.

[0108] The positive terminal of the first power supply P1 is connected to the anode terminal Tp of the three-phase bridge circuit section 100. The negative terminal of the first power supply P1 is connected to the first input / output terminal T1 of the first leg 120 via the first inductor L1, which is an additional circuit 114. An input-side capacitor Cin, which is an additional circuit 114, is connected between the positive and negative terminals of the first power supply P1.

[0109] One terminal of the first load Z1 is connected to the first inductor L1, to which the negative terminal of the first power supply P1 is connected. The other terminal of the first load Z1 is connected to the cathode terminal Tn. An output capacitor, Out, which is an additional circuit 114, is connected between both terminals of the first load Z1.

[0110] The microcomputer 143 of the control unit 102 reads from the ROM 145 and executes a program for a reversible step-up / step-down DC / DC converter that utilizes the first leg 120, according to instructions from the instruction unit 104. Then, the control unit 102 operates the three-phase bridge circuit unit 100 as a reversible step-up / step-down DC / DC converter. As a result, the control unit 102 chops the first upper IGBT 140 and the first lower IGBT 144 of the first leg 120 and supplies power from the first power supply P1 to the first load Z1.

[0111] In short, the control unit 102 turns on the first upper IGBT 140 of the first leg 120 and applies the first voltage V1 of the first power supply P1 to the first inductor L1. Then, the control unit 102 turns off the first upper IGBT 140 and turns on the first lower IGBT 144, and applies the charge voltage charged to the first inductor L1 to the first load Z1.

[0112] The control unit 102 obtains the required output voltage by controlling the on / off times of the first upper IGBT 140 and the first lower IGBT 144 in the first leg 120.

[0113] (Example of Use) Next, an example of the use of the power converter 10 will be explained with reference to Figures 11 to 34. Note that the circuit configuration and operation of the DC / DC converter, etc., are generally known and have been explained in the basic functions described above, so a detailed explanation will be omitted. Also, in each drawing, the control unit 102 and the indicator unit 104 are omitted. Also, in each drawing, the circuit configuration of the three-phase bridge circuit section 100 is omitted, and only the terminals Tp, Tn, T1, T2, and T3 are shown.

[0114] (Examples of use using a DC power supply) Figures 11 to 25 show the first to twenty-fifth examples of use using a DC power supply. In each example, the three-phase bridge circuit section 100 operates as a step-down chopper or a step-up chopper. Examples of DC power supplies used in each example include rechargeable secondary batteries or capacitors, or solar cells or fuel cells that can only discharge.

[0115] (First Usage Example) Figure 11 shows a first usage example of the power converter 10. Figure 11 shows an example of use using the first power supply P1, the second power supply P2, the third power supply P3, and the fourth power supply P4.

[0116] As shown in Figure 11, a fourth power supply P4 is connected to the anode terminal Tp and cathode terminal Tn of the three-phase bridge circuit section 100.

[0117] The first inductor L1 is connected to the first input / output terminal T1 of the three-phase bridge circuit section 100. The positive terminal of the first power supply P1 is connected to the first terminal TL1 of the first inductor L1. The second inductor L2 is connected to the second input / output terminal T2 of the three-phase bridge circuit section 100. The positive terminal of the second power supply P2 is connected to the second terminal TL2 of the second inductor L2. The third inductor L3 is connected to the third input / output terminal T3 of the three-phase bridge circuit section 100. The positive terminal of the third power supply P3 is connected to the third terminal TL3 of the third inductor L3. The negative terminal of the first power supply P1, the negative terminal of the second power supply P2, and the negative terminal of the third power supply P3 are connected to the cathode terminal Tn.

[0118] The fourth voltage V4 of the fourth power supply P4 is equal to or greater than the first voltage V1 of the first power supply P1. The first voltage V1 is equal to or greater than the second voltage V2 of the second power supply P2. The second voltage V2 is equal to or greater than the third voltage V3 of the third power supply P3.

[0119] In this example, the control unit 102 controls the switching state of the corresponding legs (120, 122, 124) according to the program corresponding to the instruction from the instruction unit 104. As a result, the control unit 102 can step down the fourth voltage V4 of the fourth power supply P4 and output it to any of the first power supply P1 to the third power supply P3. Alternatively, the control unit 102 can step up all or more of the voltages (V1, V2, V3) of the first power supply P1 to the third power supply P3 and output them to the fourth power supply P4.

[0120] Furthermore, the control unit 102 controls the switching state of the corresponding legs (120, 122, 124) according to the program corresponding to the instruction from the instruction unit 104. As a result, the control unit 102 can boost the first voltage V1 of the first power supply P1 to the fourth voltage V4 of the fourth power supply P4, then step it down and output it to the second power supply P2 or the third power supply P3. Also, the control unit 102 can boost the second voltage V2 of the second power supply P2 to the fourth voltage V4 of the fourth power supply P4, then step it down and output it to the third power supply P3.

[0121] Furthermore, the control unit 102 controls the switching state of the corresponding legs (120, 122, 124) according to the program corresponding to the instruction from the instruction unit 104. As a result, the control unit 102 can boost the second voltage V2 of the second power supply P2 or the third voltage V3 of the third power supply P3 to the fourth voltage V4 of the fourth power supply P4, then step it down and output it to the first power supply P1. Alternatively, the control unit 102 can boost the third voltage V3 of the third power supply P3 to the fourth voltage V4 of the fourth power supply P4, then step it down and output it to the second power supply P2.

[0122] In the following explanation, the function of stepping down the fourth voltage V4 and outputting it to the first terminal TL1 of the first inductor L1 will be represented as "V4 --> V1". The function of stepping down the fourth voltage V4 and outputting it to the second terminal TL2 of the second inductor L2 will be represented as "V4 --> V2". The function of stepping down the fourth voltage V4 and outputting it to the third terminal TL3 of the third inductor L3 will be represented as "V4 --> V3".

[0123] The function of boosting the first voltage V1 and outputting it to the anode terminal Tp is represented as "V1 --> V4". The function of boosting the second voltage V2 and outputting it to the anode terminal Tp is represented as "V2 --> V4". The function of boosting the third voltage V3 and outputting it to the anode terminal Tp is represented as "V3 --> V4".

[0124] The function of stepping down the first voltage V1 and outputting it to the second terminal TL2 of the second inductor L2 is represented as "V1 --> V2". The function of stepping down the first voltage V1 and outputting it to the third terminal TL3 of the third inductor L3 is represented as "V1 --> V3". The function of stepping down the second voltage V2 and outputting it to the third terminal TL3 of the third inductor L3 is represented as "V2 --> V3".

[0125] The function of boosting the second voltage V2 and outputting it to the first terminal TL1 of the first inductor L1 is represented as "V2 --> V1". The function of boosting the third voltage V3 and outputting it to the first terminal TL1 of the first inductor L1 is represented as "V3 --> V1". The function of boosting the third voltage V3 and outputting it to the second terminal TL2 of the second inductor L2 is represented as "V3 --> V2".

[0126] (Second Usage Example) Figure 12 shows a second usage example of the power converter 10. Figure 12 shows an example of use using the first power supply P1, the second power supply P2, the third power supply P3, and the fourth load Z4.

[0127] As shown in Figure 12, this usage example differs from the first usage example (see Figure 11) in that the fourth power supply P4 between the anode terminal Tp and cathode terminal Tn of the three-phase bridge circuit section 100 is changed to a fourth load Z4. In this case, a voltage equal to or greater than the first voltage V1, which is the highest voltage among the first power supply P1, second power supply P2, and third power supply P3, is applied to the fourth load Z4. In the following, "load" refers to a passive load, and loads including a power supply or a power supply in a regenerative state are categorized as power supplies.

[0128] In this example, the control unit 102 controls the switching state of the corresponding legs (120, 122, 124) according to the program corresponding to the instruction from the instruction unit 104. This allows the control unit 102 to execute the functions "V1 --> V2", "V1 --> V3", "V2 --> V1", and "V3 --> V1". At this time, the first voltage V1 is applied to the fourth load Z4. The control unit 102 can also execute the functions "V2 --> V4 --> V3" and "V3 --> V4 --> V2". At this time, the first voltage V1 is applied to the fourth load Z4. Furthermore, the control unit 102 boosts the first power supply P1 at the first leg 120 and outputs the fourth voltage V4 (V4 ≥ V1) to the fourth load Z4 ("V1 --> V4"). Then, the control unit 102 steps down this fourth voltage V4 in the second leg 122 to output a second voltage V2 that is lower than the first voltage V1 ("V1 --> V4 --> V2"). Furthermore, the control unit 102 can also step down the fourth voltage V4 in the third leg 124 to output a third voltage V3 that is lower than the second voltage V2 ("V1 --> V4 --> V3").

[0129] (Third Usage Example) Figure 13 shows a third usage example of the power converter 10. Figure 13 shows an example of use using the first power supply P1, the second power supply P2, and the fourth power supply P4.

[0130] As shown in Figure 13, this usage example differs from the second usage example (see Figure 12) in that the third power supply P3 is eliminated and the second terminal TL2 of the second inductor L2 is connected to the third terminal TL3 of the third inductor L3.

[0131] In this example, the control unit 102 controls the switching state of the corresponding legs (120, 122, 124) according to the program corresponding to the instruction from the instruction unit 104. As a result, the control unit 102 can execute the functions "V4 --> V1", "V4 --> V2 (or V3)", "V1 --> V4", and "V2 --> V4". Furthermore, the control unit 102 can execute the functions "V1 --> V4 --> V2" and "V2 --> V4 --> V1".

[0132] (Fourth Usage Example) Figure 14 shows a fourth usage example of the power converter 10. Figure 14 shows an example of use using the first power supply P1, the second power supply P2, the fourth power supply P4, and the third load Z3.

[0133] As shown in Figure 14, this usage example differs from the first usage example (see Figure 11) in that the third power supply P3 has been changed to the third load Z3.

[0134] In this example, the control unit 102 controls the switching state of the corresponding legs (120, 122, 124) according to the program corresponding to the instruction from the instruction unit 104. As a result, the control unit 102 can execute the functions "V4 --> V1", "V4 --> V2", and "V4 --> V3". Furthermore, the control unit 102 can execute the functions "V1 --> V4" and "V2 --> V4".

[0135] Furthermore, the control unit 102 can execute the functions of "V1 --> V4 --> V2", "V1 --> V4 --> V3", "V2 --> V4 --> V3", and "V2 --> V4 --> V1".

[0136] In this example, the third load Z3 is connected to the third terminal TL3 of the third inductor L3. Therefore, the "V1 --> V4 --> V3" function can be performed by boosting the first voltage V1 to form the fourth voltage V4 of the fourth power supply P4, then stepping it down in the third leg 124 and outputting it to the third terminal TL3 of the third inductor L3. Also, the "V2 --> V4 --> V3" function can be performed by boosting the second voltage V2 to form the fourth voltage V4 of the fourth power supply P4, then stepping it down in the third leg 124 and outputting it to the third terminal TL3 of the third inductor L3.

[0137] (Fifth Usage Example) Figure 15 shows a fifth usage example of the power converter 10. Figure 15 shows an example of use using the first power supply P1, the second power supply P2, and the fourth load Z4.

[0138] As shown in Figure 15, this usage example differs from the third usage example (see Figure 13) in that the fourth power supply P4 is changed to the fourth load Z4. In this case, a voltage equal to or greater than the first voltage V1, which is the highest voltage among the first power supply P1 and the second power supply P2, is applied to the fourth load Z4.

[0139] In this example, the control unit 102 controls the switching state of the corresponding legs (120, 122, 124) according to the program corresponding to the instruction from the instruction unit 104. As a result, the control unit 102 can execute the functions of "V1 --> V2 (or V3)", "V2 --> V1", "V1 --> V4", and "V2 --> V4".

[0140] In this example, a fourth load Z4 is connected between the anode terminal Tp and the cathode terminal Tn. Therefore, in the "V1 --> V4" function, the voltage applied to the fourth load Z4 can be determined by the program being executed within the range of the first voltage V1 to the fourth voltage V4. Similarly, in the "V2 --> V4" function, the voltage applied to the fourth load Z4 can be determined by the program being executed within the range of the first voltage V1 to the fourth voltage V4.

[0141] (Sixth Usage Example) Figure 16 shows the sixth usage example of the power converter 10. Figure 16 shows an example of use using the first power supply P1, the second power supply P2, the third load Z3, and the fourth load Z4.

[0142] As shown in Figure 16, this usage example differs from the fourth usage example (see Figure 14) in that the fourth power supply P4 is replaced with the fourth load Z4. In this case, a voltage equal to or greater than the first voltage V1, which is the highest voltage among the first power supply P1 and the second power supply P2, is applied to the fourth load Z4.

[0143] In this example, the control unit 102 controls the switching state of the corresponding legs (120, 122, 124) according to the program corresponding to the instruction from the instruction unit 104. As a result, the control unit 102 can execute the functions of "V1 --> V2", "V2 --> V1", "V1 --> V3", "V2 --> V1 --> V3", "V1 --> V4", and "V2 --> V4". In addition, the control unit 102 can execute the functions of "V1 --> V4 --> V2", "V2 --> V4 --> V1", "V1 --> V4 --> V3", and "V2 --> V4 --> V3".

[0144] (Seventh Usage Example) Figure 17 shows the seventh usage example of the power converter 10. Figure 17 shows an example of use using the first power supply P1 and the fourth power supply P4.

[0145] As shown in Figure 17, this usage example differs from the third usage example (see Figure 13) in that the second power supply P2 is eliminated and the second terminal TL2 of the second inductor L2 is connected to the first terminal TL1 of the first inductor L1.

[0146] In this example, the control unit 102 controls the switching state of the corresponding legs (120, 122, 124) according to the program corresponding to the instruction from the instruction unit 104. As a result, the control unit 102 can execute the functions of "V4 --> V1 (or V2, V3)" and "V1 --> V4".

[0147] (Eighth Usage Example) Figure 18 shows the eighth usage example of the power converter 10. Figure 18 shows an example of use using the first power supply P1, the fourth power supply P4, and the third load Z3.

[0148] As shown in Figure 18, this usage example differs from the fourth usage example (see Figure 14) in that the second power supply P2 is eliminated and the second terminal TL2 of the second inductor L2 is connected to the first terminal TL1 of the first inductor L1.

[0149] In this example, the control unit 102 controls the switching state of the corresponding legs (120, 122, 124) according to the program corresponding to the instruction from the instruction unit 104. As a result, the control unit 102 can execute the functions of "V4 --> V1 (or V2)", "V1 --> V4", "V4 --> V3", "V1 --> V3", and "V1 --> V4 --> V3".

[0150] (Ninth Usage Example) Figure 19 shows the ninth usage example of the power converter 10. Figure 19 shows an example of use using the first power supply P1, the fourth power supply P4, and the third load Z3.

[0151] As shown in Figure 19, this usage example differs from the eighth usage example (see Figure 18) in that the second terminal TL2 of the second inductor L2 and the first terminal TL1 of the first inductor L1 are disconnected, and the second terminal TL2 and the third terminal TL3 of the third inductor L3 are connected.

[0152] In this example, the control unit 102 controls the switching state of the corresponding legs (120, 122, 124) according to the program corresponding to the instruction from the instruction unit 104. As a result, the control unit 102 can execute the functions of "V4 --> V1", "V1 --> V4", "V4 --> V3 (or V2)", "V1 --> V3 (or V2)", and "V1 --> V4 --> V3".

[0153] In this example, the third load Z3 is connected to the third terminal TL3 of the third inductor L3. Therefore, in the function of "V1 --> V4 --> V3 (or V2)", it is possible to boost the first voltage V1 to form the fourth voltage V4, and then step it down to apply the first voltage V1 to the third load Z3.

[0154] (Tenth Usage Example) Figure 20 shows the tenth usage example of the power converter 10. Figure 20 shows an example of use using the first power supply P1, the fourth power supply P4, the second load Z2, and the third load Z3.

[0155] As shown in Figure 20, this usage example differs from the fourth usage example (see Figure 14) in that the second power supply P2 has been changed to the second load Z2.

[0156] In this example, the control unit 102 controls the switching state of the corresponding legs (120, 122, 124) according to the program corresponding to the instruction from the instruction unit 104. As a result, the control unit 102 can execute the functions of "V4 --> V1", "V1 --> V4", "V4 --> V2", "V4 --> V3", "V1 --> V4 --> V2", and "V1 --> V4 --> V3".

[0157] In this example, the second load Z2 is connected to the second terminal TL2 of the second inductor L2. Therefore, the function "V1 --> V4 --> V2" can be performed by boosting the first voltage V1 to the fourth voltage V4, then stepping it down and applying it to the second load Z2. Also, the third load Z3 is connected to the third terminal TL3 of the third inductor L3. Therefore, the function "V1 --> V4 --> V3" can be performed by boosting the first voltage V1 to the fourth voltage V4, then stepping it down and applying it to the third load Z3.

[0158] (Eleventh Usage Example) Figure 21 shows the eleventh usage example of the power converter 10. Figure 21 shows an example of use using the first power supply P1, the third load Z3, and the fourth load Z4.

[0159] As shown in Figure 21, this usage example differs from the ninth usage example (see Figure 19) in that the fourth power supply P4 has been changed to the fourth load Z4.

[0160] In this example, the control unit 102 controls the switching state of the corresponding legs (120, 122, 124) according to the program corresponding to the instruction from the instruction unit 104. This makes it possible for the control unit 102 to execute the function "V1 --> V3 (or V2)". At this time, it is possible to apply a voltage of the first voltage V1 or less to the third load Z3. It is also possible to execute the functions "V1 --> V4" and "V1 --> V4 --> V3". At this time, it is possible to apply a voltage of the fourth voltage V4 or less to the third load Z3.

[0161] (Twelfth Usage Example) Figure 22 shows the twelfth usage example of the power converter 10. Figure 22 shows an example of use using the first power supply P1, the second load Z2, the third load Z3, and the fourth load Z4.

[0162] As shown in Figure 22, this usage example differs from the sixth usage example (see Figure 16) in that the second power supply P2 has been changed to the second load Z2.

[0163] In this example, the control unit 102 controls the switching state of the corresponding legs (120, 122, 124) according to the program corresponding to the instruction from the instruction unit 104. As a result, the control unit 102 can execute the functions of "V1 --> V2", "V1 --> V3", "V1 --> V4", "V1 --> V4 --> V2", and "V1 --> V4 --> V3".

[0164] In the "V1-->V4" function, the voltage applied to the fourth load Z4 can be determined by the program being executed, within the range of the first voltage V1 to the fourth voltage V4.

[0165] (Thirteenth Usage Example) Figure 23 shows the thirteenth usage example of the power converter 10. Figure 23 shows an example of use using the fourth power supply P4 and the third load Z3.

[0166] As shown in Figure 23, this usage example differs from the ninth usage example in that the first power supply P1 is eliminated and the first terminal TL1 of the first inductor L1 is connected to the third load Z3.

[0167] In this example, the control unit 102 can execute the "V4 --> V3 (or V1, V2)" function by controlling the switching state of the corresponding legs (120, 122, 124) according to the program corresponding to the instruction from the instruction unit 104.

[0168] (Fourteenth Usage Example) Figure 24 shows the fourteenth usage example of the power converter 10. Figure 24 shows an example of use using the fourth power supply P4, the first load Z1, and the third load Z3.

[0169] As shown in Figure 24, this usage example differs from the third usage example (see Figure 13) in that the first power supply P1 is changed to the first load Z1, and the second power supply P2 is changed to the third load Z3.

[0170] In this example, the control unit 102 controls the switching state of the corresponding legs (120, 122, 124) according to the program corresponding to the instruction from the instruction unit 104. As a result, the control unit 102 can execute the functions of "V4 --> V1" and "V4 --> V3 (or V2)".

[0171] (Fifteenth Usage Example) Figure 25 shows the fifteenth usage example of the power converter 10. Figure 25 shows an example of use using the fourth power supply P4, the first load Z1, the second load Z2, and the third load Z3.

[0172] As shown in Figure 25, this usage example differs from the first usage example (see Figure 11) in that the first power supply P1 is changed to the first load Z1, the second power supply P2 is changed to the second load Z2, and the third power supply P3 is changed to the third load Z3.

[0173] In this example, the control unit 102 controls the switching state of the corresponding legs (120, 122, 124) according to the program corresponding to the instruction from the instruction unit 104. As a result, the control unit 102 can execute the functions of "V4 --> V1", "V4 --> V2", and "V4 --> V3".

[0174] (Examples of use using AC power sources, etc.) Figures 26 to 34 show examples of use using AC power sources. Examples of AC power sources used in each example include single-phase motors or three-phase motors capable of generating electricity.

[0175] (Sixteenth Usage Example) Figure 26 shows the sixteenth usage example of the power converter 10. Figure 26 shows an example of use using a three-phase motor Zac3 and a fourth power supply P4. In the sixteenth usage example, the control unit 102 operates the three-phase bridge circuit section 100 as a three-phase variable-speed inverter with regenerative function.

[0176] As shown in Figure 26, a fourth power supply P4 is connected to the anode terminal Tp and cathode terminal Tn of the three-phase bridge circuit section 100.

[0177] In Figure 26, the first inductor L1 is connected to the first input / output terminal T1 of the three-phase bridge circuit 100. The first terminal TL1 of the first inductor L1 is connected to the U-phase coil terminal 400 of the three-phase motor Zac3. The second inductor L2 is connected to the second input / output terminal T2 of the three-phase bridge circuit 100. The second terminal TL2 of the second inductor L2 is connected to the V-phase coil terminal 402 of the three-phase motor Zac3. The third inductor L3 is connected to the third input / output terminal T3 of the three-phase bridge circuit 100. The third terminal TL3 of the third inductor L3 is connected to the W-phase coil terminal 404 of the three-phase motor Zac3.

[0178] Since the primary circuit of an electric motor is generally composed of three-phase coils, the first inductor L1, the second inductor L2, and the third inductor L3 are usually omitted.

[0179] In this example, the control unit 102 controls the switching state of the corresponding legs (120, 122, 124) according to the program corresponding to the instruction from the instruction unit 104. This allows the control unit 102 to convert the DC of the fourth power supply P4 into three-phase AC and output it from each input / output terminal T1, T2, and T3. Furthermore, during regeneration, the control unit 102 can convert the three-phase AC from each input / output terminal T1, T2, and T3 back into DC and return it to the fourth power supply P4.

[0180] As a result, the control unit 102 operates at least a portion of the three-phase bridge circuit section 100 as a DC / AC inverter (three-phase PWM inverter with regenerative function). In this example, the control unit 102 operates the three-phase bridge circuit section 100 as a three-phase inverter that converts DC to three-phase AC. Furthermore, the control unit 102 operates the three-phase bridge circuit section 100 as a three-phase inverter that converts three-phase AC to DC during regeneration.

[0181] The function of converting the DC of the fourth power supply P4 into three-phase AC and outputting it from the input / output terminals T1, T2, and T3 is represented as "V4 --> Zac3". Also, the function of converting the three-phase AC into DC during regenerative operation and outputting it to the anode terminal Tp is represented as "Zac3 --> V4".

[0182] In this case, the control unit 102 makes the switching speed of each leg of the three-phase bridge circuit 100 variable according to the program being executed (three-phase variable-speed inverter operation with regenerative function). In this case, the control unit 102 operates at least a part of the three-phase bridge circuit 100 as a DC / AC inverter (three-phase PWM inverter) with a variable output frequency.

[0183] (Seventeenth Usage Example) Figure 27 shows the seventeenth usage example of the power converter 10. Figure 27 shows an example of use using a three-phase AC power supply Pac3 and a fourth power supply P4.

[0184] As shown in Figure 27, this usage example differs from the sixteenth usage example (see Figure 26) in that the three-phase motor Zac3 has been replaced with a three-phase AC power supply Pac3.

[0185] The first input / output terminal T1 of the three-phase bridge circuit section 100 is connected to the U-phase 410 of the three-phase AC power supply Pac3 via the first inductor L1. The second input / output terminal T2 of the three-phase bridge circuit section 100 is connected to the V-phase 412 of the three-phase AC power supply Pac3. The third input / output terminal T3 of the three-phase bridge circuit section 100 is connected to the W-phase 414 of the three-phase AC power supply Pac3.

[0186] Note that a three-phase AC power supply Pac3 generally contains an inductance component. Therefore, the first inductor L1, the second inductor L2, and the third inductor L3 are usually omitted.

[0187] In this example, the control unit 102 converts the DC of the fourth power supply P4 into three-phase AC by controlling the switching state of the corresponding legs (120, 122, 124) according to the program corresponding to the instruction from the instruction unit 104 (three-phase CVCF inverter operation). As a result, the control unit 102 can make the three-phase bridge circuit unit 100 function as a three-phase AC power supply device that outputs three-phase AC.

[0188] Furthermore, the control unit 102 controls the switching state of the corresponding legs (120, 122, 124) according to the program corresponding to the instruction from the instruction unit 104. As a result, the control unit 102 can rectify the three-phase AC from the three-phase AC power supply Pac3 into DC and output it from the anode terminal Tp and cathode terminal Tn (three-phase CVCF converter operation).

[0189] Furthermore, for rectification of three-phase AC, the diodes 142, 146, 182, 186, 202, and 206 of the three-phase bridge circuit section 100 can be used. In addition, rectification of three-phase AC is possible not only by diode rectification using the diodes 142, 146, 182, 186, 202, and 206, but also by PWM rectification using the IGBTs 140, 144, 180, 184, 200, and 204 of the three-phase bridge circuit section 100.

[0190] As a result, the control unit 102 functions as a charger that charges the fourth power supply P4 with DC rectified from three-phase AC, or as a discharger that generates commercial frequency three-phase AC from DC and outputs it to the power system. The control unit 102 also operates the three-phase bridge circuit section 100 as a three-phase rectifier that converts three-phase AC to DC or DC to commercial frequency three-phase AC.

[0191] The function of outputting rectified DC from the three-phase AC power supply Pac3 through the anode terminal Tp and cathode terminal Tn is represented as "Vac3 --> V4". The function of generating three-phase AC from DC, synchronizing the phases, and outputting it to the three-phase AC power supply Pac3 is represented as "V4 --> Vac3".

[0192] (Eighteenth Usage Example) Figure 28 shows the eighteenth usage example of the power converter 10. Figure 28 shows an example of use using a single-phase AC power supply Pac, a third power supply P3, and a fourth power supply P4.

[0193] As shown in Figure 28, this usage example differs from the seventeenth usage example (see Figure 27) in that the three-phase AC power supply Pac3 has been changed to a single-phase AC power supply Pac connected between the first terminal TL1 of the first inductor L1 and the second terminal TL2 of the second inductor L2. Also, this usage example differs from the seventeenth usage example (see Figure 27) in that a third power supply P3 has been connected between the third terminal TL3 of the third inductor L3 and the cathode terminal Tn.

[0194] Note that single-phase AC power supplies Pac generally contain an inductance component. Therefore, the first inductor L1 and the second inductor L2 are usually omitted.

[0195] In this example, the control unit 102 controls the switching state of the corresponding legs (120, 122, 124) according to the program corresponding to the instruction from the instruction unit 104. As a result, the control unit 102 can rectify the single-phase AC of the single-phase AC power supply Pac and output DC from the anode terminal Tp and cathode terminal Tn (single-phase CVCF converter operation).

[0196] The control unit 102 causes the three-phase bridge circuit section 100 to function as a DC power supply that rectifies and outputs single-phase AC. The control unit 102 also operates the three-phase bridge circuit section 100 as a single-phase rectifier (single-phase PWM converter) that converts single-phase AC to DC.

[0197] Furthermore, the control unit 102 controls the switching state of the corresponding legs (120, 122, 124) according to the program corresponding to the instruction from the instruction unit 104. This allows the control unit 102 to convert the DC from the fourth power supply P4 to single-phase AC and output it from the first terminal TL1 of the first inductor L1 and the second terminal TL2 of the second inductor L2 (single-phase CVCF inverter operation). The power converter 10 can also be used by omitting the first inductor L1 and the second inductor L2 and connecting the first input / output terminal T1 to the first terminal TL1, and connecting the second input / output terminal T2 to the second terminal TL2.

[0198] As a result, the control unit 102 functions as a single-phase AC power supply device that converts DC to single-phase AC and outputs it. The control unit 102 also operates the three-phase bridge circuit unit 100 as a single-phase inverter (single-phase PWM inverter) that converts DC to single-phase AC.

[0199] Furthermore, the control unit 102 controls the switching state of the corresponding legs (120, 122, 124) according to the program corresponding to the instruction from the instruction unit 104. As a result, the control unit 102 can rectify the single-phase AC from the single-phase AC power supply Pac to obtain the DC, which is then used as the fourth voltage V4 of the fourth power supply P4, and then step it down to output between the third terminal TL3 of the third inductor L3 and the cathode terminal Tn.

[0200] As a result, the control unit 102 functions as a charger that rectifies single-phase AC to DC and charges the third power supply P3. The control unit 102 also operates the three-phase bridge circuit section 100 as a single-phase rectifier (single-phase PWM converter) that converts single-phase AC to DC.

[0201] Furthermore, the control unit 102 controls the switching state of the corresponding legs (120, 122, 124) according to the program corresponding to the instruction from the instruction unit 104. This allows the control unit 102 to convert the DC of the third power supply P3 into single-phase AC and output it from between the first terminal TL1 of the first inductor L1 and the second terminal TL2 of the second inductor L2.

[0202] As a result, the control unit 102 functions as a single-phase AC power supply device that converts DC to single-phase AC and outputs it. The control unit 102 also operates the three-phase bridge circuit unit 100 as a single-phase inverter (single-phase PWM inverter) that converts DC to single-phase AC.

[0203] The function of outputting rectified DC from the single-phase AC power supply Pac through the anode terminal Tp and cathode terminal Tn is represented as "Vac --> V4". The function of converting the DC of the fourth power supply P4 to single-phase AC and outputting it through the first terminal TL1 of the first inductor L1 and the second terminal TL2 of the second inductor L2 is represented as "V4 --> Vac". The function represented by "V4 --> Vac" includes, in the case where the first inductor L1 and the second inductor L2 are omitted, the function of converting the DC of the fourth power supply P4 to single-phase AC and outputting it through the first input / output terminal T1 and the second input / output terminal T2.

[0204] Furthermore, the function of rectifying the single-phase AC power supply Pac and outputting DC between the third terminal TL3 of the third inductor L3 and the cathode terminal Tn is represented as "Vac --> V4 --> V3". The function of converting the DC power supply P3 to single-phase AC and outputting it between the first terminal TL1 of the first inductor L1 and the second terminal TL2 of the second inductor L2 is represented as "V3 --> V4 --> Vac".

[0205] The control unit 102 can then execute the "V4 --> V3" and "V3 --> V4" functions by controlling the switching state of the corresponding legs (120, 122, 124) according to the program corresponding to the instruction from the instruction unit 104.

[0206] (Nineteenth Usage Example) Figure 29 shows the nineteenth usage example of the power converter 10. Figure 29 shows an example of use using a single-phase AC power supply Pac, a fourth power supply P4, and a third load Z3.

[0207] As shown in Figure 29, this usage example differs from the eighteenth usage example (see Figure 28) in that the third power supply P3 has been changed to the third load Z3.

[0208] In this example, the control unit 102 controls the switching state of the corresponding legs (120, 122, 124) according to the program corresponding to the instruction from the instruction unit 104. As a result, the control unit 102 can execute the functions of "Vac --> V4", "V4 --> Vac", "Vac --> V4 --> V3", and "V4 --> V3".

[0209] (Twentieth Usage Example) Figure 30 shows the twentieth usage example of the power converter 10. Figure 30 shows an example of use using a single-phase AC power supply Pac, a third power supply P3, and a fourth load Z4.

[0210] As shown in Figure 30, this usage example differs from the nineteenth usage example (see Figure 29) in that the fourth power supply P4 is changed to the fourth load Z4, and the third load Z3 is changed to the third power supply P3.

[0211] In this example, the control unit 102 controls the switching state of the corresponding legs (120, 122, 124) according to the program corresponding to the instruction from the instruction unit 104. As a result, the control unit 102 can execute the functions of "Vac --> V4", "Vac --> V4 --> V3", "V3 --> V4 --> Vac", and "V3 --> V4".

[0212] In the "Vac-->V4" function, the average voltage applied to the fourth load Z4 can be boosted to 0.9 times or more the effective single-phase voltage of the single-phase AC power supply Pac, according to the program being executed.

[0213] (Twenty-first usage example) Figure 31 shows the twenty-first usage example of the power converter 10. Figure 31 shows an example of use using a single-phase AC power supply Pac, a third load Z3, and a fourth load Z4.

[0214] As shown in Figure 31, this usage example differs from the 20th usage example (see Figure 30) in that the third power supply P3 has been changed to the third load Z3.

[0215] In this example, the control unit 102 controls the switching state of the corresponding legs (120, 122, 124) according to the program corresponding to the instruction from the instruction unit 104. As a result, the control unit 102 can execute the functions of "Vac --> V4" and "Vac --> V4 --> V3".

[0216] In the "Vac-->V4" function, the average voltage applied to the fourth load Z4 can be boosted to 0.9 times or more the effective single-phase voltage of the single-phase AC power supply Pac, according to the program being executed.

[0217] (Example 22 of Use) Figure 32 shows the 22nd example of use of the power converter 10. Figure 32 shows an example of use using a third power source P3, a fourth power source P4, and a single-phase AC load Zac.

[0218] As shown in Figure 32, this usage example differs from the eighteenth usage example (see Figure 28) in that the single-phase AC power supply Pac has been changed to a single-phase AC load Zac.

[0219] In this example, the control unit 102 controls the switching state of the corresponding legs (120, 122, 124) according to the program corresponding to the instruction from the instruction unit 104. As a result, the control unit 102 converts the DC from the fourth power supply P4 into single-phase AC and applies it to the single-phase AC load Zac connected between the first terminal TL1 of the first inductor L1 and the second terminal TL2 of the second inductor L2 (operating a single-phase CVCF inverter). The power converter 10 can also be used by omitting the first inductor L1 and the second inductor L2, connecting the first input / output terminal T1 to the first terminal TL1, and connecting the second input / output terminal T2 to the second terminal TL2.

[0220] As a result, the control unit 102 converts DC to single-phase AC and outputs it, functioning as a single-phase AC power supply Pac. The control unit 102 also operates the three-phase bridge circuit unit 100 as a single-phase inverter (single-phase PWM inverter) that converts DC to single-phase AC.

[0221] The function of converting the DC of the fourth power supply P4 into single-phase AC and outputting it between the first terminal TL1 of the first inductor L1 and the second terminal TL2 of the second inductor L2 is represented by "V4-->Zac". The function represented by "V4-->Zac" includes the function of converting the DC of the fourth power supply P4 into single-phase AC and outputting it between the first input / output terminal T1 and the second input / output terminal T2, when the first inductor L1 and the second inductor L2 are omitted.

[0222] Furthermore, the control unit 102 controls the switching state of the corresponding legs (120, 122, 124) according to the program corresponding to the instruction from the instruction unit 104. As a result, the control unit 102 can convert the DC from the third power supply P3 into single-phase AC and apply it to the single-phase AC load Zac connected between the first terminal TL1 of the first inductor L1 and the second terminal TL2 of the second inductor L2 (single-phase CVCF inverter operation). The power converter 10 can also be used by omitting the first inductor L1 and the second inductor L2, connecting the first input / output terminal T1 to the first terminal TL1, and connecting the second input / output terminal T2 to the second terminal TL2.

[0223] At this time, the control unit 102 can boost the third voltage V3 and apply it to the single-phase AC load Zac by controlling the switching state of the corresponding legs (120, 122, 124) according to the program corresponding to the instruction from the instruction unit 104.

[0224] As a result, the control unit 102 functions as a single-phase AC power supply Pac that converts DC to single-phase AC and outputs it. The control unit 102 also operates the three-phase bridge circuit unit 100 as a single-phase inverter (single-phase PWM inverter) that converts DC to single-phase AC.

[0225] The function of converting the DC of the third power supply P3 into three-phase AC and outputting it from between the first terminal TL1 of the first inductor L1 and the second terminal TL2 of the second inductor L2 is represented by "V3-->Zac". The function represented by "V3-->Zac" includes the function of outputting it from between the first input / output terminal T1 and the second input / output terminal T2 when the first inductor L1 and the second inductor L2 are omitted.

[0226] Furthermore, the control unit 102 controls the switching state of the corresponding legs (120, 122, 124) according to the program corresponding to the instruction from the instruction unit 104. This makes it possible for the control unit 102 to execute the functions of "V4 --> V3", "V3 --> V4", and "V3 --> V4 --> Zac".

[0227] (Twenty-third usage example) Figure 33 shows the twenty-third usage example of the power converter 10. Figure 33 shows an example of use using the fourth power supply P4, the third load Z3, and the single-phase AC load Zac.

[0228] As shown in Figure 33, this usage example differs from the 22nd usage example (see Figure 32) in that the third power supply P3 has been changed to the third load Z3.

[0229] In this example, the control unit 102 can execute the functions "V4-->Zac" and "V4-->V3" by controlling the switching state of the corresponding legs (120, 122, 124) according to the program corresponding to the instruction from the instruction unit 104.

[0230] (Twenty-fourth usage example) Figure 34 shows the twenty-fourth usage example of the power converter 10. Figure 34 shows an example of use using a third power source P3, a fourth load Z4, and a single-phase AC load Zac.

[0231] As shown in Figure 34, this usage example differs from the 22nd usage example (see Figure 32) in that the fourth power supply P4 has been changed to the fourth load Z4.

[0232] In this example, the control unit 102 controls the switching state of the corresponding legs (120, 122, 124) according to the program corresponding to the instruction from the instruction unit 104. As a result, the control unit 102 can execute the functions of "V3 --> V4 --> Zac" and "V3 --> V4".

[0233] In this way, the control unit 102 executes a program corresponding to the instructions from the instruction unit 104 and individually controls the switching state of the corresponding legs (120, 122, 124), thereby enabling the three-phase bridge circuit unit 100 to perform multiple functions.

[0234] (Modified Version) Next, variations of the instruction unit 104, which instructs the control unit 102 to perform the execution functions to be performed by the three-phase bridge circuit unit 100, will be explained using modified versions.

[0235] (First Modified Example) Figure 35 is a block diagram showing the first modified example of the power converter 10.

[0236] In the first modified example, the power converter 10 is housed in an inverter housing 300. The inverter housing 300 is housed in a power converter panel housing 302.

[0237] The instruction unit 104 of the power converter 10 is composed of physical switches that select a function to be executed from among multiple functions. Examples of physical switches that make up the instruction unit 104 include DIP switches.

[0238] The instruction unit 104 is provided on the controller board 141 of the control unit 102. The communication circuit 220 to which the instruction unit 104 is connected is configured as a DID (Digital In / Out) that inputs the on / off state of the physical switches constituting the instruction unit 104 as digital signals.

[0239] Furthermore, the communication circuit 220 and the DID 326, described later, can be configured as circuits that convert analog signals to digital signals, for example, when the indicator unit 104 is configured as a potentiometer (the same applies hereinafter).

[0240] Alternatively, the instruction unit 104 may be installed on the outside of the inverter housing 300. In this case, the instruction unit 104 is connected to the communication circuit 220 via a connector CN provided on the inverter housing 300.

[0241] Methods for installing the indicator unit 104(A) on the outside of the inverter housing 300 include installing the indicator unit 104(A) on the outer wall surface of the inverter housing 300, and installing the indicator unit 104(B) on the outside of the inverter housing 300 but inside the power conversion panel housing 302.

[0242] Furthermore, the indicator unit 104 may be installed on the outside of the power conversion panel housing 302. Methods for installing it on the outside of the power conversion panel housing 302 include installing the indicator unit 104(C) on the outer wall surface of the power conversion panel housing 302, and installing the indicator unit 104(D) at a separate location on the outside of the power conversion panel housing 302.

[0243] (Operation Description) When switching execution functions, the user sets the desired function by setting the ON / OFF state of the bit sequence in the DIP switch that constitutes the instruction unit 104 when the power converter 10 is powered off.

[0244] When the power to the power converter 10 is turned on and the control unit 102 is started, the microcomputer 143 reads the setting status of the instruction unit 104 and operates the corresponding legs (120, 122, 124) of the three-phase bridge circuit unit 100 according to the set execution function. As mentioned above, one method for operating the corresponding legs (120, 122, 124) of the three-phase bridge circuit unit 100 according to the set execution function is to store the execution function in the non-volatile memory 149.

[0245] (Second Modification) Figure 36 is a block diagram showing a second modification of the power converter 10.

[0246] In the second modified example, an expansion board 310 is installed on the outside of the inverter enclosure 300 and inside the power conversion panel enclosure 302.

[0247] The expansion board 310 is provided with an instruction unit 104, a buffer element 312 that amplifies the on / off state of the physical switches constituting the instruction unit 104, and a connector CN to which the output of the buffer element 312 is connected.

[0248] The connector CN of the expansion board 310 is connected to the connector CN of the controller board 141. The on / off states of the physical switches constituting the instruction unit 104 are amplified by the buffer element 312 and transmitted to the communication circuit 220 of the controller board 141 via each connector CN.

[0249] Methods for installing the indicator unit 104 via the expansion board 310 include installing the indicator unit 104(F) outside the expansion board 310 and inside the power conversion panel housing 302, and installing the indicator unit 104(G) on the outer wall surface of the power conversion panel housing 302. Another method for installing the indicator unit 104 via the expansion board 310 is to install the indicator unit 104(H) at a separate location outside the power conversion panel housing 302.

[0250] (Effects and Actions of the First and Second Modified Forms) The effects and actions of the first and second modified forms will be explained below.

[0251] In the power converter 10, the instruction unit 104 is a switch that selects a function to be executed from among multiple functions. As a result, the power converter 10 allows the user to operate the switches that make up the instruction unit 104 and have the three-phase bridge circuit unit 100 execute a function according to the intended use.

[0252] (Third Modification) Figure 37 is a block diagram showing a third modification of the power converter 10.

[0253] In the third modified example, an instruction unit 320 is provided on the outside of the inverter housing 300 and inside the power conversion panel housing 302. Furthermore, the communication circuit 220 provided on the controller board 141 of the control unit 102 is composed of an electronic circuit that enables CAN communication and constitutes part of the communication unit.

[0254] The instruction unit 320 has a function selection controller board 322. The function selection controller board 322 is provided with a physical switch 324 and a DID (Digital In / Out) 326 that inputs the on / off state of the switch 324 as a digital signal.

[0255] Furthermore, the function selection controller board 322 is provided with a microcontroller 328 to which the output of DID 326 is input, a CAN-IC 330 which constitutes part of the communication section that enables CAN communication by the microcontroller 328, and a connector CN connected to the CAN-IC 330. The CAN-IC 330 of the function selection controller board 322, together with the communication circuit 220 of the controller board 141, constitutes the communication section.

[0256] The microcontroller 328 is connected to the communication circuit 220 of the controller board 141 via the connector CN of the function selection controller board 322, the connector CN of the inverter housing 300, and the connector CN of the controller board 141, enabling communication between the controller board 328 and the communication circuit 220 of the controller board 141.

[0257] As a result, the instruction unit 320 includes a switch 324 for selecting a function to be executed from among multiple functions, and a communication unit (220, 330) for transmitting signals from the switch 324 to the control unit 102.

[0258] Such an instruction unit 320(A) may be located outside the power conversion panel housing 302. In this case, the connector CN of the function selection controller board 322(A) is connected to the connector CN of the inverter housing 300 via the connector CN provided on the power conversion panel housing 302.

[0259] Furthermore, different instruction units 320(B) can be connected to the connector CN provided on the power conversion panel housing 302.

[0260] The instruction unit 320(B) includes a personal computer 350 and a function selection application 352, which is an application program for operating the personal computer 350. The instruction unit 320(B) also includes a CAN interface 354, which constitutes part of the communication unit that enables CAN communication by the personal computer 350.

[0261] The personal computer 350 operates according to the function selection application 352, thereby forming a selection unit 353 that selects which of the multiple functions of the power converter 10 to execute. In addition, the CAN interface 354 of the function selection controller board 322, together with the communication circuit 220 of the controller board 141, forms a communication unit.

[0262] As a result, the instruction unit 320(B) includes a selection unit 353 that selects a function to be executed from among multiple functions, and a communication unit (220, 354) that transmits signals from the selection unit 353 to the control unit 102.

[0263] (Operation and Effects of the Third Modified Example) In the power converter 10, the instruction unit 320(B) includes a selection unit 353 that selects a function to be executed from among a plurality of functions, and a communication unit (220, 354) that transmits a signal from the selection unit 353 to the control unit 102. As a result, the power converter 10 allows the user to select a function using the selection unit 353 of the instruction unit 320(B), thereby causing the three-phase bridge circuit unit 100 to execute a function according to the intended use.

[0264] In the power converter 10, the instruction units 320 and 320(A) include a switch 324 for selecting a function to be executed from among a plurality of functions, and a communication unit (220, 330) for transmitting signals from the switch 324 to the control unit 102. As a result, the power converter 10 allows the user to operate the switch 324 of the instruction units 320 and 320(A) to cause the three-phase bridge circuit unit 100 to execute a function according to the intended use.

[0265] (Fourth Modification) Figure 38 is a block diagram showing the fourth modification of the power converter 10.

[0266] In the fourth modified example, a communication method conversion board 370, which constitutes a communication method conversion device 369, is provided on the outside of the inverter housing 300 and inside the power conversion panel housing 302. Furthermore, the communication circuit 220 provided on the controller board 141 of the control unit 102 is composed of an electronic circuit that enables CAN communication and constitutes a part of the communication unit.

[0267] The communication method conversion board 370 is provided with a connector CN that is connected to the connector CN of the inverter housing 300, a CANIC 372 that constitutes part of the communication section that enables CAN communication, and a microcontroller 374 that enables CAN communication via the CANIC 372.

[0268] Furthermore, the communication method conversion board 370 is provided with a communication interface 376 which constitutes part of the communication unit that enables the microcontroller 374 to communicate with the outside world, and a connector CN connected to the communication interface 376. In addition, the communication method conversion board 370 is provided with a wireless communication interface 378 which constitutes part of the communication unit that enables the microcontroller 374 to communicate with the outside world, and an antenna 380 connected to the wireless communication interface 378.

[0269] The connector CN of the communication method conversion board 370 is connected to the connector CN provided on the power conversion panel housing 302. The connector CN of the power conversion panel housing 302 is connected to an instruction unit 104(J) which instructs the control unit 102 to perform the execution functions to be performed by the three-phase bridge circuit unit 100.

[0270] The instruction unit 104(J) includes a wired interface 390 connected to connector CN of the power conversion panel housing 302, and a selection unit 392 connected to the wired interface 390. The selection unit 392 can communicate with the control unit 102 via the wired interface 390 and the communication method conversion device 369.

[0271] Communication standards that utilize the wired interface 390 include optical communication standards that use optical signals. Alternatively, communication standards that utilize the wired interface 390 include those that use electrical signals, such as RS-485.

[0272] Furthermore, the selection unit 392(A), which constitutes the instruction unit 104(K), can also be directly connected to the connector CN of the power conversion panel housing 302. Ethernet® is an example of a communication standard that allows the selection unit 392(A) to be directly connected to the connector CN of the power conversion panel housing 302.

[0273] Furthermore, the antenna 380 of the wireless communication interface 378 can be connected to the selection unit 392 via wireless communication. Examples of wireless communication standards include Wi-Fi® or Bluetooth®.

[0274] The selection unit 392 is composed of a computer with communication capabilities, which has either wired or wireless communication capabilities. Examples of computers with communication capabilities include personal computers and smartphones.

[0275] The selection unit 392 operates according to the operation of the function selection application as an application program, allowing the user to select an execution function from among multiple functions to be executed by the three-phase bridge circuit unit 100. The selection unit 392 then instructs the control unit 102 of the power converter 10 to execute the execution function selected by the user via one of the aforementioned communication methods.

[0276] Furthermore, by using a gateway 396 at the connector CN of the power conversion panel housing 302, the selection unit 392(A) that constitutes the instruction unit 104(K) is connected to communicate via the internet 398. In this case, the execution function selected by the selection unit 392(A) can be instructed to the control unit 102 of the power conversion device 10 from a remote location.

[0277] On the other hand, if the selection units 392 and 392(A) do not have a function selection application, the microcontroller 374 of the communication method conversion board 370 operates according to the web server application, thereby enabling the communication method conversion device 369 to have web server functionality. As a result, the selection units 392 and 392(A) can select execution functions from a browser.

[0278] (Operation Description) The user connects a selection unit 392(A), such as a personal computer, to a communication method conversion device 369 running a web application 500 via the Internet 398. The communication method conversion device 369 then transmits a function selection screen in HTML format to the connected selection unit 392(A) according to the web application 500. As a result, the function selection screen is displayed on the selection unit 392(A).

[0279] The user selects the execution function to be used on the function selection screen displayed on the selection unit 392(A) and presses the send button. The selection unit 392(A) transmits the selected execution function to the communication method converter 369.

[0280] The communication method converter 369 transmits the received execution function to the control unit 102 of the power converter 10 via the CANIC 372. The microcomputer 143 of the control unit 102 receives the execution function. At this time, the microcomputer 143 receives the execution function using, for example, the "communication and non-volatile memory update software" stored in the ROM 145. The microcomputer 143 also stores the received execution function in, for example, the "function selection No." area of ​​the non-volatile memory 149 at a predetermined timing. The execution function stored in the "function selection No." area of ​​the non-volatile memory 149 is retained as the function to be executed next time.

[0281] The microcomputer 143 of the control unit 102 reads the execution functions stored in the non-volatile memory 149 and loads them into the RAM 147 at the next startup. The microcomputer 143 operates according to the program corresponding to the loaded execution functions (for example, the variable-speed AC / DC control program 232 for motor drive). As a result, the microcomputer 143 operates the corresponding legs (120, 122, 124) of the three-phase bridge circuit section 100 based on the loaded execution functions (static reconfiguration).

[0282] Although this embodiment has been described using static reconfiguration as an example, it may also operate with dynamic reconfiguration.

[0283] (Operation and Effects of the Fourth Modified Example) According to this embodiment, the power converter 10 allows the user to select a function using the selection unit 353 of the instruction unit 104, thereby causing the three-phase bridge circuit unit 100 to execute a function according to the intended use.

[0284] (Operation and Effects of the Embodiment) The main operations and effects of the power conversion device 10 configured as described above will be summarized below.

[0285] (1) The power converter 10 is a device that converts the form of input power and outputs it. The power converter 10 has a first leg 120, a second leg 122, and a third leg 124 connected between the anode terminal Tp and the cathode terminal Tn, respectively, and comprises a three-phase bridge circuit section 100 having a first input / output terminal T1 of the first leg 120, a second input / output terminal T2 of the second leg 122, and a third input / output terminal T3 of the third leg 124. The power converter 10 comprises a control unit 102 that controls the switching state of the first leg 120, the second leg 122, and the third leg 124 to operate the first leg 120, the second leg 122, and the third leg 124, respectively, and enables the three-phase bridge circuit section 100 to perform multiple functions. The power converter 10 includes an instruction unit 104 that instructs the control unit 102 to perform certain functions from among a plurality of functions. The plurality of functions include at least two of the following: a function to operate at least a portion of the three-phase bridge circuit unit 100 as a DC / DC converter; a function to operate at least a portion of the three-phase bridge circuit unit 100 as a DC / AC inverter or AC / DC converter; and a function to operate at least a portion of the three-phase bridge circuit unit 100 as a DC / AC inverter with a variable output frequency and regenerative function.

[0286] According to this embodiment, the power converter 10 can perform multiple power conversion functions according to the application by having the control unit 102 flexibly switch the switching state of the three-phase bridge circuit unit 100 based on instructions from the instruction unit 104. This makes it possible to apply a single hardware configuration to multiple locations with different functions, resulting in improved versatility.

[0287] Therefore, the power converter 10 can be made more versatile compared to a system composed of a dedicated circuit designed for a specific application. By increasing versatility in this way, users can use a single power converter 10 for various purposes, thus reducing initial capital investment costs and allowing for flexible adaptation to future system expansions. Furthermore, while conventional dedicated circuits required hardware redesign every time the function was changed, the present invention can be adapted to changes only by changing the software and adding or changing simple external circuits, thus enabling rapid response to market changes.

[0288] Furthermore, since the power converter 10 can be applied to multiple locations with different uses, design costs can be reduced compared to designing a dedicated circuit for each use. In addition, the power converter 10 can be mass-produced compared to cases where the circuit configuration differs for each use, thus reducing production costs.

[0289] (2) In the power converter 10, the control unit 102 either makes the three-phase bridge circuit 100 function together with an additional circuit 114 connected to at least one of the anode terminal Tp, cathode terminal Tn, first input / output terminal T1, second input / output terminal T2, or third input / output terminal T3, or makes each leg of the three-phase bridge circuit 100 function individually or in combination.

[0290] In this embodiment, the power converter 10 can be flexibly connected to additional circuits 114 such as inductors (L1, L2, L3) depending on the application. For example, by connecting the inductors in a specific configuration, the three-phase bridge circuit section 100 and the additional circuits 114 cooperate to give the power converter 10 a boost function when viewed from the first terminal TL1 of the first inductor L1, the second terminal TL2 of the second inductor LL2, and the third terminal TL3 of the third inductor L3.

[0291] (3) In the power conversion device 10, the DC / DC converter includes multiple structures and functions of a boost DC / DC converter that outputs a voltage higher than the input voltage and a buck DC / DC converter that outputs a voltage lower than the input voltage.

[0292] In this embodiment, the power converter 10 is capable of outputting both a voltage lower than the input voltage and a voltage higher than the input voltage when functioning as a DC / DC converter.

[0293] (4) The power converter 10 further includes a function to operate the three-phase bridge circuit section 100 as a three-phase rectifier that converts three-phase AC to DC, and a function to operate the three-phase bridge circuit section 100 as a three-phase inverter that converts DC to three-phase AC. The further includes a function to operate the three-phase bridge circuit section 100 as a single-phase rectifier that converts single-phase AC to DC, and a function to operate the three-phase bridge circuit section 100 as a single-phase inverter that converts DC to single-phase AC.

[0294] In this embodiment, the power converter 10 is capable of converting three-phase alternating current to direct current, direct current to three-phase alternating current, single-phase alternating current to direct current, and direct current to single-phase alternating current.

[0295] (5) In the power converter 10, the instruction unit 104 is a switch that selects the function to be executed from among a plurality of functions.

[0296] According to this embodiment, the power converter 10 allows the user to operate switches constituting the instruction unit 104, thereby causing the three-phase bridge circuit unit 100 to execute functions according to the intended use.

[0297] (6) In the power converter 10, the instruction unit 320(B) includes a selection unit 353 that selects a function to be executed from among a plurality of functions, and a communication unit (220, 354) that transmits signals from the selection unit 353 to the control unit 102.

[0298] According to this embodiment, the power converter 10 allows the user to select a function using the selection unit 353 of the instruction unit 320(B), thereby causing the three-phase bridge circuit unit 100 to execute a function according to its intended use.

[0299] (7) In the power converter 10, the instruction units 320, 320(A) include a switch 324 for selecting a function to be executed from among a plurality of functions, and a communication unit (220, 330) for transmitting signals from the switch 324 to the control unit 102.

[0300] According to this embodiment, the power converter 10 allows the user to operate the switch 324 of the instruction units 320 and 320(A) to cause the three-phase bridge circuit unit 100 to execute a function according to the intended use.

[0301] Although embodiments of the present invention have been described above, these embodiments only represent a part of the application examples of the present invention, and are not intended to limit the technical scope of the present invention to the specific configurations of the above embodiments.

[0302] In this embodiment, the case in which the three-phase bridge circuit section 100 is composed of a two-level inverter has been described. However, the three-phase bridge circuit section 100 is not limited to this and may be composed of a multi-level inverter such as a three-level inverter.

[0303] 10 Power converter 34 First DC / DC converter 38 First AC / DC three-phase inverter 39 Second DC / DC converter 50 DC / AC three-phase inverter 80 AC / DC rectifier 100 Three-phase bridge circuit section 102 Control section 104 Instruction section 114 Additional circuit 120 First leg 122 Second leg 124 Third leg 143 Microcomputer 145 ROM 232 Variable speed AC / DC control program for motor drive 234 AC / DC control program for power supply unit 236 DC / DC control program for power supply unit T1 First input / output terminal section T2 Second input / output terminal section T3 Third input / output terminal section

Claims

1. A power conversion device that converts the form of input power and outputs it, comprising: a three-phase bridge circuit section having a first leg, a second leg, and a third leg connected between an anode terminal section and a cathode terminal section, respectively, and having a first input / output terminal section of the first leg, a second input / output terminal section of the second leg, and a third input / output terminal section of the third leg; a control section that controls the switching state of the first leg, the second leg, and the third leg to operate the first leg, the second leg, and the third leg, respectively, and enables the three-phase bridge circuit section to perform a plurality of functions; and an instruction section that instructs the control section to perform one of the plurality of functions, from which the control section should perform the three-phase bridge circuit section, wherein the plurality of functions include: a function to operate at least a part of the three-phase bridge circuit section as a DC / DC converter; and a function to operate at least a part of the three-phase bridge circuit section as a DC / AC inverter or AC / DC converter. A power converter comprising at least two of the following: a function to operate at least a portion of the three-phase bridge circuit section as a DC / AC inverter with a variable output frequency and regenerative function.

2. A power conversion device according to claim 1, wherein the control unit is current-reversible, causing the three-phase bridge circuit to function together with an additional circuit connected to at least one of the anode terminal section, the cathode terminal section, the first input / output terminal section, the second input / output terminal section, or the third input / output terminal section, or causing each leg of the three-phase bridge circuit to function individually or in combination.

3. A power conversion device according to claim 2, wherein the DC / DC converter includes a plurality of structures and functions of a boost DC / DC converter that outputs a voltage higher than the input voltage and a buck DC / DC converter that outputs a voltage lower than the input voltage.

4. A power conversion device according to claim 2 or claim 3, wherein the plurality of functions further include: a function to operate the three-phase bridge circuit section as a three-phase rectifier that converts three-phase AC to DC; a function to operate the three-phase bridge circuit section as a three-phase inverter that converts DC to three-phase AC; a function to operate the three-phase bridge circuit section as a single-phase rectifier that converts single-phase AC to DC; and a function to operate the three-phase bridge circuit section as a single-phase inverter that converts DC to single-phase AC.

5. A power conversion device according to claim 1, wherein the instruction unit is a switch that selects a function to be executed from among a plurality of functions.

6. A power conversion device according to claim 1, wherein the instruction unit comprises: a selection unit for selecting a function to be executed from among a plurality of functions; and a communication unit for transmitting a signal from the selection unit to the control unit.

7. A power conversion device according to claim 1, wherein the instruction unit comprises a switch for selecting a function to be executed from among a plurality of functions, and a communication unit for transmitting a signal from the switch to the control unit.

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