Bidirectional Power Converter Circuit Topology
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing electrical power systems that utilize both alternating current (AC) and direct current (DC) signals require separate complex circuits for AC-to-DC and DC-to-AC conversion, leading to increased costs and decreased reliability.
Innovation Solution
A bidirectional power converter is developed, comprising inductor-capacitor circuits, switching transistors, and a controller that operates in both AC-to-DC and DC-to-AC modes, using pulse-width modulation (PWM) and PID control to adjust duty cycles and generate accurate output signals.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If separate circuits control systems are used for AC-to-DC and DC-to-AC conversion, then the conversion functions are achieved, but the device complexity and costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a single bidirectional power converter that can operate in both AC-to-DC rectification mode and DC-to-AC inversion mode. The converter uses the same power stage components (switching transistors, inductors, capacitors) for both conversion directions, eliminating the need for separate control systems and reducing overall device complexity while maintaining full conversion functionality
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges the previously separate AC-to-DC rectifier circuit and DC-to-AC inverter circuit into a single integrated bidirectional converter. The power stage combines rectification and inversion functions using shared components, and the controller integrates both rectification control and inversion control into one control system, thereby reducing circuit complexity and costs
2Adaptability or versatility
If separate circuits control systems are used for AC-to-DC and DC-to-AC conversion, then the conversion functions are achieved, but the reliability decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The bidirectional power converter provides a unified reliable platform for both AC-to-DC and DC-to-AC conversion. By using the same power stage and control system for both functions, the patent eliminates the reliability issues associated with having separate systems, while still achieving full conversion adaptability
Solution Approach 2:
The integration of rectification and inversion functions into a single converter system reduces the number of potential failure points. The shared power stage components and unified control system improve overall system reliability compared to having separate independent circuits, while maintaining both conversion capabilities
3Device complexity
If a bidirectional power converter is used, then the device complexity and costs are reduced, but the control precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements feedback control mechanisms in both rectification and inversion modes. The controller continuously monitors the output signals and adjusts the duty cycle of PWM switching signals based on the measured output, ensuring precise voltage and current regulation. This feedback approach maintains high measurement precision while using a simplified bidirectional converter structure
Solution Approach 2:
The patent dynamically adjusts switching parameters (duty cycle, switching frequency) based on operating conditions and load requirements. The controller modifies these parameters in real-time to maintain precise output control during mode transitions and varying load conditions, enabling accurate output signal generation with the simplified bidirectional converter architecture
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 bidirectional power converter simplifies power conversion processes, reducing complexity and costs while enhancing reliability by efficiently generating DC from AC and AC from DC signals.
Implementation Method 1
adjust a duty cycle of a pulse width modulation (PWM) switching signal to switch the high-frequency switching transistor
Implementation Method 2
convert the AC signals received from the wind turbines to DC signals
Implementation Method 3
a first inductor-capacitor circuit electrically connected to an alternating current (AC) power source
Implementation Method 4
a second inductor-capacitor circuit electrically connected to the first switching transistor and the first inductor-capacitor circuit
Implementation Method 5
identify an error between a measurement of the DC output signal from the first high-frequency switching transistor and a predetermined DC output signal level for the DC load
Data Source
AI summary
A bidirectional AC-to-DC and DC-to-AC circuit includes a first inductor-capacitor (LC) circuit connected to an AC power source, a transistor synchronized with the AC power source signal, a second LC circuit electrically connected to the synchronized transistor and the first inductor-capacitor circuit, a high-frequency switching transistor electrically connected to the second inductor-capacitor circuit and a direct current (DC) load, and a controller connected to the high-frequency switching transistor. The controller identifies an error between a measured DC output signal and a predetermined DC output signal that is applied to the DC load, and adjusts a duty cycle of a pulse width modulation (PWM) switching signal for the high-frequency transistor to reduce the identified error.