Bidirectional Multimode Power Converter for Energy Wastage Reduction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current power conversion technologies are inefficient, bulky, and require multiple stages, leading to energy wastage and increased costs, particularly when dealing with alternate energy sources and electric vehicles, as they often need bidirectional conversion capabilities and cannot efficiently manage idle modes or reduce the number of converters needed.
Innovation Solution
A Bidirectional Multimode Power Converter architecture that dynamically converts AC or DC inputs to programmable AC or DC outputs with adjustable voltage, frequency, and duration, incorporating features like inrush current control, idle detection, and fault tolerance, allowing for parallel operation of multiple converters without compromising efficiency.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of energy
If traditional power conversion technologies are used, then power conversion can be achieved, but efficiency is low and energy wastage is high
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple power conversion functions (AC-DC, DC-AC, AC-AC, DC-DC conversion) into a single unified power converter system. This integration eliminates the need for multiple separate converters, reducing overall system losses and improving efficiency by sharing common components and control architecture.
Solution Approach 2:
The power converter is designed with multi-functional capability to perform various conversion modes (bidirectional AC-DC, DC-AC, AC-AC, DC-DC) using a single device. This universal design reduces energy wastage by eliminating idle converters and optimizing power flow through intelligent control algorithms that select the most efficient conversion path.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple converters are used for different electronic appliances, then different voltage requirements can be met, but the number of converters increases and energy is wasted when idle
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a universal power converter that can output multiple voltage levels and frequencies (AC and DC) simultaneously or independently. This single multi-functional converter replaces multiple dedicated converters, eliminating idle power consumption by ensuring only one converter operates regardless of the number of connected appliances with different voltage requirements.
Solution Approach 2:
The power converter dynamically adjusts its output parameters (voltage, frequency, conversion mode) based on real-time detection of connected loads. The controller automatically configures the converter to provide only the necessary power conversion capabilities, reducing energy wastage by avoiding fixed-operation converters that consume power even when not fully utilized.
3Ease of manufacture
If conventional power conversion systems are used, then power conversion is achieved, but the system size is bulky and cost is high
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates multiple power conversion stages and functions into a single compact system with shared magnetic components, capacitors, and control circuits. This consolidation reduces the overall volume and material requirements compared to having separate converters for each function, thereby reducing both system size and manufacturing cost.
Solution Approach 2:
By designing a universal power converter that handles multiple conversion modes and voltage levels in one device, the patent eliminates the need for multiple separate units. This reduces the total system volume and component count, leading to lower manufacturing costs and a more compact footprint while maintaining full functionality.
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 enables high-efficiency, compact, and cost-effective power conversion with reduced energy wastage, supporting multiple features like programmable outputs and fault tolerance, making it suitable for alternate energy systems and electric vehicles.
Implementation Method 1
A power converter or a power supply converts the Alternating Current (AC) electrical power at line voltage and frequency to Direct Current (DC) or AC to AC at different voltage levels and frequencies or DC to DC at different voltage levels used by electronic appliances and equipment
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention is directed to Bidirectional Multimode Power Converter which employs a high frequency dynamically varying amplitude modulation and voltage steering-method to convert the source AC or DC voltages to output AC or DC voltages with programmable output voltage levels, output voltage frequency and duration. The Bidirectional Multimode Power Converters of the present invention support: inrush current control, turning off the idle converter, line voltage brown out protection, soft start, high pre-charge voltage generation, soft shut down of converter, dimming operation, programmable time of the day operation and operation for specified duration of time. The Bidirectional Multimode Power Converters of the present invention support coupling of multiple power sources for bidirectional power conversion.