Reconfigurable Buck Converter Topology for DC Bus Voltage Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing power conversion systems face challenges in efficiently managing voltage levels across multiple converters, particularly when some converters are malfunctioning or not producing power, leading to excessive voltage levels that exceed safety thresholds.
Innovation Solution
A power system configuration that includes a mix of upside-up and upside-down buck converters, where converters can switch between configuration modes, with connections to a DC bus to maintain voltage levels within thresholds, using controllers to manage these switches based on system parameters and signals.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Power
If multiple buck converters are connected in series to achieve higher voltage conversion, then voltage conversion capability is improved, but voltage control difficulty increases when some converters malfunction
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic reconfiguration of buck converter connections, allowing the system to switch between series and parallel configurations based on operational status. When converters malfunction, the controller dynamically adjusts the connection topology to maintain voltage control, resolving the contradiction between achieving high voltage conversion and maintaining control simplicity.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes operational parameters by switching converters between different connection modes (series/parallel) and adjusting their operating states. This parameter change enables the system to adapt to converter failures while maintaining effective voltage control, addressing the contradiction between voltage capability and control difficulty.
2Loss of energy
If buck converters are operated in series configuration to achieve high voltage output, then voltage conversion efficiency is improved, but system reliability decreases when converters fail
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs dynamic reconfiguration capability that allows the system to switch from series to parallel configuration when converters fail. This dynamic adaptation maintains system reliability by providing alternative operational paths, while preserving voltage conversion efficiency through optimal configuration selection.
Solution Approach 2:
The system prepares for potential converter failures by having pre-configured parallel operation modes ready. When a converter malfunctions, the system can immediately switch to the prepared parallel configuration, cushioning against reliability degradation and maintaining continuous efficient operation.
3Reliability
If the system allows flexible reconfiguration of converter connections to maintain reliability, then system reliability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent manages complexity by systematically changing connection parameters (series/parallel configurations) based on converter status. The controller implements structured parameter changes rather than arbitrary reconfigurations, maintaining reliability while controlling system complexity through methodical adaptation.
4Adaptability or versatility
If the system dynamically switches between series and parallel converter configurations to maintain voltage levels, then adaptability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic switching between series and parallel configurations based on real-time converter status monitoring. This dynamic adaptability allows the system to respond to various failure scenarios while the structured switching logic keeps control complexity manageable through systematic decision-making.
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 effectively maintains voltage across converters below safety thresholds, even when some components are non-operational, by dynamically adjusting converter configurations, ensuring stable power delivery.
Implementation Method 1
a second bidirectional switch and a reactor that are disposed between the AC side terminals
Implementation Method 2
a first capacitor that is connected between the first input terminal and the second input terminal, and a second capacitor that is connected between the first output terminal and the second output terminal
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3A
AI summary
Systems, apparatuses, and methods are described for power conversion. The power conversion may be done by a plurality of power devices with different configurations. For example, the plurality of power devices may include one or more converters with an upside-up buck configuration and one or more converters with an upside-down buck configuration. The power conversion may be done by one or more power devices that may be configurable between different modes of configuration. For example, one or more power converters may be configured in either an upside-up buck configuration mode or an upside-down buck configuration mode. The selection of a certain mode of configuration of the converter may be permanent or non-permanent.