Reconfigurable Active Front End Converter for Simultaneous Charging
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing battery-powered inverters often require separate DC-AC inverter and charger sections, which are not operable simultaneously, limiting their versatility and increasing size and cost.
Innovation Solution
A reconfigurable active front end converter that can switch between DC-DC and AC-DC modes using blocking diodes and contactors to integrate charging and inverting functions, allowing simultaneous operation of both.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If separate DC-AC inverter and charger sections are used, then reliability is improved, but device complexity and size increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the DC-AC inverter and charger sections into a single integrated converter that can operate in multiple modes. The converter uses a unified power stage with switches, diodes, and energy storage elements that can function as both an inverter (converting DC to AC) and a charger (rectifying AC to DC), eliminating the need for separate sections while maintaining reliability through proven topological structures.
Solution Approach 2:
The converter is designed with universal functionality to perform both inversion and charging operations using the same hardware components. By controlling the switching elements and diodes in different configurations, the single converter section can adapt to serve multiple functions, reducing device complexity while preserving the reliability benefits of dedicated functional sections.
2Reliability
If separate DC-AC inverter and charger sections are used, then reliability is improved, but volume increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the inverter and charger into a single compact converter unit sharing common magnetic components, capacitors, and switching elements. This integration dramatically reduces the overall volume compared to having separate inverter and charger sections, while the modular design allows each functional mode to be implemented efficiently within the shared space.
3Adaptability or versatility
If separate DC-AC inverter and charger sections are used, then adaptability is improved, but ease of operation worsens
Solution Approach 1:
The converter provides universal adaptability to handle both inverting and charging operations through a single unified interface. The automatic mode detection and switching logic simplifies operation by eliminating the need for users to manually configure or switch between separate inverter and charger sections, improving ease of operation while maintaining full adaptability.
4Adaptability or versatility
If separate DC-AC inverter and charger sections are used, then adaptability is improved, but cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent consolidates the inverter and charger functionalities into a single converter section, reducing the total component count, PCB area, and assembly steps. This merging lowers manufacturing costs through economies of scale, reduced inventory requirements, and simplified production processes, while the multi-mode capability maintains full adaptability for both inverting and charging applications.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Enables simultaneous charging of battery packs from DC sources like solar panels and powering AC loads, reducing platform size and cost without compromising safety or efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
an active front end converter including a bi-directional inverter including a plurality of switches electrically connected to the internal power source, the AC input, the DC input, and the AC output. The active front-end is configured to convert AC power from the AC input to DC power for charging the internal power source
Implementation Method 2
convert DC power from the internal power source to AC power provided at the AC output in a first configuration
Implementation Method 3
A reconfigurable active front end converter that can switch between DC-DC and AC-DC modes using blocking diodes and contactors
Data Source
AI summary
A portable power supply may include an internal power source and a active front-end converter connected to the internal power source. The active front-end converter includes a positive DC connector lead, a negative DC connector lead, a positive source side lead, a negative source side lead, and a plurality of switches. The active front-end converter is configured to operate as a DC-DC converter for DC input signals and an AC-DC inverter for AC input signals. The portable power supply also includes an AC source input, and a DC source input.