Bidirectional Multimode Power Converter With Unified AC/DC Conversion
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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 struggle to provide high efficiency, compactness, and versatility in converting between AC and DC voltages and frequencies.
Innovation Solution
A Bidirectional Multimode Power Converter architecture that dynamically converts power from AC or DC inputs to provide continuous or pulsed AC or DC outputs with programmable voltage, frequency, and duration, incorporating features like inrush current control, idle detection, and fault tolerance, using a modular design with switch elements and a controller to manage power conversion efficiently.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If traditional multi-stage power conversion systems are used, then power conversion capability is achieved, but device complexity and size increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple power conversion functions (AC-DC rectification, DC-DC conversion, DC-AC inversion) into a single unified circuit topology using shared switches, inductors, and capacitors. The full-bridge converter architecture allows the same components to operate in different modes depending on switching configurations, eliminating the need for separate conversion stages and reducing overall system complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a universal power conversion platform that can perform multiple conversion types (AC to DC, DC to DC, DC to AC) using a single circuit design. The controller dynamically reconfigures the switching elements to achieve different conversion modes, making the system adaptable to various power source and load requirements without requiring dedicated hardware for each conversion type.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple power conversion stages are implemented, then voltage and frequency conversion is achieved, but energy loss increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges rectification, DC conversion, and inversion functions into a single integrated stage. By using shared energy storage components (inductors and capacitors) and switching elements across all conversion functions, the system eliminates intermediate conversion stages that would otherwise cause cumulative energy losses. The unified architecture ensures energy is converted in one efficient pass rather than through multiple lossy stages.
3Adaptability or versatility
If separate converters are used for different power conversion needs, then specific conversion requirements are met, but device quantity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a single converter design that can adapt to different conversion requirements through controlled switching operations. The full-bridge topology with programmable control allows the system to function as a rectifier, DC-DC converter, or inverter based on operational mode selection, replacing what would traditionally require three separate dedicated converters. This universal design reduces component quantity while maintaining mode-specific performance.
4Ease of operation
If conventional power conversion architecture is used, then power conversion function is provided, but idle power consumption occurs
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs periodic switching control where power conversion operations are activated only when needed and deactivated during idle periods. The controller monitors load requirements and dynamically switches the power conversion stages on or off, using the energy storage components to bridge brief idle periods without requiring continuous operation. This periodic activation eliminates standby power consumption while maintaining continuous operational capability.
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 solution enables high efficiency, compactness, and versatility in power conversion, reducing energy wastage and costs by eliminating unnecessary modules, supporting multiple features like inrush current control and fault tolerance, while maintaining overall efficiency even when multiple converters are used in parallel.
Implementation Method 1
switch elements and a controller to manage power conversion efficiently
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.