Bi-directional Multi-port Power Converter Eliminates Transformers
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional power converters require multiple stages for inter-conversions between different electrical formats, leading to efficiency losses and increased costs due to the use of large and heavy transformers.
Innovation Solution
A bi-directional multi-port power converter utilizing an energy transfer reactance, such as an inductor and capacitor in parallel, enables efficient conversion between various electrical formats, including DC, single-phase AC, three-phase AC, and synchronous AC, without the need for transformers, by using active neutral lines to provide synergies in power conversion.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If conventional power converters use transformers for inter-conversion between different electrical formats, then power conversion function is achieved, but device size and weight increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts and removes the transformer component from the power conversion system. Instead of using a transformer for inter-conversion between different electrical formats, the invention employs a power converter with switching devices that directly convert power between formats, eliminating the need for heavy transformer hardware while maintaining the power conversion function.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical/magnetic transformation mechanism of traditional transformers with an electronic switching mechanism. The power converter uses switching devices controlled by control signals to achieve power inter-conversion, substituting the physical transformer structure with an electronic control system that achieves the same function without the associated weight and size.
2Adaptability or versatility
If conventional power converters use multiple conversion stages for inter-conversion between different electrical formats, then comprehensive power conversion capability is achieved, but energy losses increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple power conversion functions into a single integrated power converter device. Instead of using separate conversion stages for different electrical format inter-conversions, the invention combines all conversion capabilities within one device that can directly convert between different formats, thereby reducing the number of conversion stages and minimizing cumulative energy losses.
3Adaptability or versatility
If conventional power converters use transformers for power inter-conversion, then power format conversion is achieved, but device cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts and eliminates the transformer component from the power conversion system. By removing this expensive component and replacing it with a power converter using switching devices and control circuits, the invention achieves power format conversion at a lower manufacturing cost while maintaining the required adaptability.
4Adaptability or versatility
If conventional power converters use large transformers, then power conversion function is achieved, but installation space requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts and removes the large transformer from the power conversion system. The replacement power converter design occupies significantly less space, enabling the power conversion function to be achieved in a compact form factor that reduces installation space requirements.
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
This solution reduces size, cost, and energy losses while enabling efficient power transfer across multiple ports, supporting various applications like electrical grids and electric vehicles, with increased efficiency and reduced conversion stages.
Implementation Method 1
a link inductor which is shunted by a capacitor... pumps power into and out of a link inductor which is shunted by a capacitor
Implementation Method 2
a link inductor which is shunted by a capacitor... the inductor's current will change the voltage of the capacitor, as in a resonant circuit
Implementation Method 3
the inductor's current will change the voltage of the capacitor, as in a resonant circuit. This can even change the sign of the voltage, without loss of energy
Data Source
AI summary
Methods and systems for bi-directional multi-port power conversion systems and applications are disclosed. In some sample embodiments, current-modulating power converters can be used to provide conversion between synchronous and asynchronous power. In some sample embodiments, current-modulating power converters can perform power conversion can be performed to and from three-phase AC with an active neutral line. In some sample embodiments, current-modulating power converters can convert between synchronous and asynchronous power and also support three-phase AC with active neutral.