Bypass Switch Optical Ignition for MMC Redundancy
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing modular multilevel power converters require costly renewal of energy-transmitting components after the bridging switch is activated, as traditional pyrotechnic ignition methods necessitate replacement of burned-out materials.
Innovation Solution
An arrangement featuring a bridging switch that can be actuated through a loop loading, combined with a first ignition device using a light guide to supply energy for optical ignition, and a second ignition device with an electrical lighter for redundant operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a pyrotechnic ignition cable is used to trigger the bypass switch, then the bypass switch can be activated, but the ignition cable must be replaced after each use, increasing maintenance costs and operational complexity
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical/pyrotechnic ignition cable system with an optical ignition system using a laser light source and optical fiber. The laser generates a light pulse that travels through the optical fiber to ignite the propellant charge, eliminating the need for physical cable replacement after each use. This substitution of mechanical components with optical components resolves the contradiction by maintaining reliable bypass switch activation while eliminating maintenance requirements.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an optical fiber as an intermediary medium to transmit the ignition signal from the laser light source to the propellant charge. This optical intermediary allows the ignition signal to be transmitted without direct electrical or mechanical contact, enabling the system to activate the bypass switch reliably while avoiding the wear and replacement issues associated with traditional ignition cables.
2Reliability
If traditional electrical ignition methods are used, then the bypass switch can be triggered, but electromagnetic interference may affect the ignition reliability
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces electrical ignition methods with optical ignition using a laser and optical fiber. This substitution eliminates the susceptibility to electromagnetic interference that plagues traditional electrical ignition systems. The optical signal transmitted through the fiber is immune to electromagnetic fields, thereby resolving the contradiction by maintaining ignition reliability while eliminating electromagnetic interference as a harmful factor.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates an electromagnetically inert environment for signal transmission by using optical fibers instead of electrical conductors. The optical fiber acts as an inert medium that does not interact with electromagnetic fields, protecting the ignition signal from interference and ensuring reliable propellant charge ignition even in high-electromagnetic-field environments.
3Device complexity
If a single ignition device is used, then the device complexity is reduced, but the system reliability decreases due to lack of redundancy
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a multi-functional ignition system where the optical fiber serves multiple purposes: it transmits the ignition signal from the laser to the propellant charge, provides electrical isolation between the control circuitry and the high-voltage module, and can be easily routed and positioned. This multi-functionality allows the system to achieve high reliability through redundant ignition paths without significantly increasing overall device complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent incorporates redundant ignition capability by providing both an optical ignition path (laser through optical fiber) and maintaining the possibility of alternative ignition methods. This beforehand cushioning ensures that if one ignition method fails, another is available, thereby increasing system reliability without requiring a complex multi-component ignition system.
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 allows for the bridging switch to be activated without the need for costly component renewal, ensuring reliable and efficient operation by providing a redundant ignition mechanism that can be controlled from a distance.
Implementation Method 1
a first light guide (associated with the propellant charge) for supplying light energy to the propellant charge (for igniting the propellant charge)
Implementation Method 2
optical ignition of the propellant charge can be achieved using the optical fiber
Implementation Method 3
a propellant charge, and a first ignition device for igniting the propellant charge
Implementation Method 4
a bypass switch for a module of a modular multilevel converter, wherein the bypass switch can be driven by a pyrotechnic propellant charge
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to an arrangement comprising a bypass switch (S1_1) for a module (1_1) of a modular multilevel converter (1). The bypass switch (S1_1) can be driven by a propellant charge (T1_1). Furthermore, the arrangement has a first detonating device (235) for detonating the propellant charge (T1_1). Here, the first detonating device (235) has a first light guide (240) for supplying light energy to the propellant charge (T1_1).