Bidirectional Inverter Topology for Single, Split, and Three-Phase V2X
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing onboard chargers (OBCs) and vehicle-to-X (V2X) inverters often lack the capability to produce various AC outputs required to handle different loads, limiting their versatility in vehicle applications.
Innovation Solution
A bidirectional AC-DC converter system with multiple leaves and a neutral leaf, controlled by controllers to generate single phase, three phase, and split phase AC voltage outputs, along with a DC-DC converter for bidirectional operation, enabling efficient power conversion and distribution.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a single stage or two stage design is used for OBCs to meet automotive requirements, then the device complexity is reduced, but the adaptability to produce various AC outputs is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a universal converter design where the same bidirectional AC-DC converter can operate in multiple modes: single-phase inverter mode, three-phase inverter mode, and split-phase inverter mode. The converter uses the same power stage with switches S1-S4 and neutral point connection to generate different AC output configurations, eliminating the need for separate dedicated inverters for each application.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs dynamic switching configurations within the converter. By controlling the switching patterns of S1-S4 and the connection state of the neutral point (connected or disconnected), the system dynamically reconfigures its output mode. The controller adjusts the switching duty cycles and sequences to generate different voltage waveforms and phase configurations from the same hardware platform.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple dedicated inverters are used to handle different loads, then the adaptability is improved, but the manufacturing cost and device complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a single universal bidirectional converter that replaces multiple dedicated inverters. The same power stage components (switches S1-S4, inductors, capacitors) serve multiple functions by changing operational modes. This eliminates redundant components and reduces manufacturing costs while maintaining the ability to handle single-phase loads, three-phase loads, and split-phase loads.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges the functionality of separate single-phase inverter, three-phase inverter, and split-phase inverter into a single integrated bidirectional AC-DC converter. The power stage components are shared across all modes, and the neutral point serves as a common reference for all output configurations, consolidating what would traditionally require three separate inverter systems.
3Ease of manufacture
If a common design is used for single, split, and three phase inverters, then the manufacturing cost is reduced, but the control complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The control system dynamically adjusts switching patterns based on the desired output mode. For single-phase mode, specific switches are activated with particular duty cycles; for three-phase mode, the switching sequence and duty cycles are modified to create three-phase voltage; for split-phase mode, the neutral point connection and switching patterns are adjusted accordingly. This dynamic control approach manages complexity through software/firmware rather than hardware differentiation.
Solution Approach 2:
The controller changes operational parameters (switching duty cycles, switching sequences, neutral point connection state) to achieve different output modes from the same hardware. By varying these control parameters, the system generates different voltage magnitudes, frequencies, and phase configurations without changing the physical circuit topology, thereby managing control complexity through parameter adjustment rather than structural reconfiguration.
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
The system provides a common design for generating diverse AC voltage outputs, enhancing the ability of vehicles to handle various loads and operate in different power modes, such as grid-to-battery and battery-to-grid, while reducing manufacturing costs and improving efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
one or more leaves configured to receive DC voltage from the battery and generate AC voltage for the line voltage
Data Source
AI summary
A system includes: a bidirectional alternating current (AC) to direct current (DC) converter (AC-DC converter) connectable to a line voltage and a battery, the AC-DC converter including: one or more leaves connectable to the line voltage and the battery, the one or more leaves configured to receive DC voltage from the battery and generate AC voltage for the line voltage, and a neutral leaf connectable to the line voltage and the battery, the neutral leaf configured to provide a return path for the generated AC voltage from the line voltage to the AC-DC converter; and one or more controllers configured to control an operation of the one or more leaves and the neutral leaf to control the AC voltage.