Bi-directional AC-DC Converter for Integrated Power Management
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current power converter designs require multiple separate components and modules for various conversion functions, leading to complex, costly, and space-intensive systems, particularly in residential applications such as solar energy, electric vehicle charging, and power quality correction, lacking integrated solutions for efficient and flexible power management.
Innovation Solution
A modular, bi-directional AC-DC power converter system that integrates DC and AC power management, enabling conversion in both directions within a single unit, with a high voltage DC link capacitor circuit and user control module for efficient power flow and management, reducing redundancy and complexity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple separate power converter components are used to provide different conversion functions (AC-DC, DC-AC, DC-DC), then each conversion function can be reliably performed, but the system occupies large area, requires complicated wiring schemes, and increases device complexity
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple separate power converter components (AC-DC converter, DC-AC inverter, DC-DC converter) into a single integrated power converter unit. This consolidation merges previously discrete components into one device, reducing the number of separate modules while maintaining all conversion functions, thereby simplifying the overall system architecture and reducing wiring complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The integrated power converter is designed to perform multiple conversion functions simultaneously or sequentially - it can operate as an AC-DC converter, a DC-AC inverter, and a DC-DC converter depending on the operational mode. This multi-functionality allows a single device to replace multiple specialized components, enhancing versatility while reducing system complexity
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple separate power converter components are installed to support various residential power applications, then all power conversion needs are met, but the system requires significant physical space and generates heat issues
Solution Approach 1:
By merging multiple power converter functions into a single integrated unit, the patent significantly reduces the total physical space required. Instead of having separate modules for AC-DC conversion, DC-AC inversion, and DC-DC conversion each occupying their own space, all these functions are consolidated into one compact device, thereby reducing the area footprint for residential installations
3Reliability
If separate dedicated power electronics systems are deployed for each residential power application (solar, EV charging, backup power), then each application receives optimized power management, but the system requires redundant components and increases installation cost
Solution Approach 1:
The integrated power converter is designed with universal functionality that can serve multiple residential applications including solar energy systems, electric vehicle charging, and backup power supplies. By implementing a single device that can operate in different modes (rectification, inversion, voltage regulation), the system eliminates the need for separate dedicated power electronics for each application, thereby reducing redundancy while maintaining application-specific power management capabilities
Data Source
AI summary
A power management apparatus is provided. The apparatus is configured to connect a plurality of DC power elements to a plurality of AC power elements and includes a DC interface module connected to the plurality of DC power elements, a bi-directional AC-DC converter connected to the DC interface module, and an AC interface module connected to the bi-directional AC-DC converter and the AC power elements.