Compact Dynamic Phase Angle Regulator for Independent Power Flow Control

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional Phase Angle Regulators (PARs) and Unified Power Flow Controllers (UPFCs) face limitations in controlling reactive power independently from active power flow and have limited dynamic capabilities, making them inefficient for modern electric power systems with increased congestion and complexity.

Innovation Solution

A Compact Dynamic Phase Angle Regulator (CD-PAR) is introduced, which uses a single transformer to regulate phase angle and control both real and reactive power flows between AC sources, employing low-rating insulated-gate bipolar transistors (IGBTs) and a bypass fail-normal switch to isolate from faults, allowing autonomous yet coordinated operation in a grid.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If conventional PARs or PSTs are used to control power flow, then phase angle control is achieved, but reactive power cannot be controlled independently from active power

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveindependent reactive power controlVSAvoiddevice structure

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent divides the power control function into independent active power control (via phase angle adjustment) and reactive power control (via voltage magnitude adjustment) channels. The converter is segmented into multiple legs that can independently control different aspects of power flow, enabling decoupled control of active and reactive power components.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The single transformer configuration with multi-leg converter structure enables the device to perform multiple functions: phase angle regulation for active power control, voltage magnitude control for reactive power control, and power flow reversal. This universal design eliminates the need for separate devices for different control objectives.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Power

If UPFCs are deployed at high power and voltage levels, then power flow control capability is enhanced, but design complexity and cost increase due to fault survival requirements

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvepower flow control capacityVSAvoiddesign complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

PowerVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent employs dynamically controllable IGBT-based converter switches that can rapidly adjust power flow in response to grid conditions. The dynamic switching capability allows the device to adapt to changing power requirements without requiring over-engineered static protection systems, reducing complexity while maintaining high power control capability.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The single transformer acts as an intermediary element that couples the converter to the transmission line. This intermediary structure simplifies the overall design by providing galvanic isolation and enabling fault containment, allowing the power electronic converter to operate at lower voltage stress while still controlling high power flows through the transformer.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

3Speed

If conventional PARs are used, then phase angle regulation is provided, but dynamic capabilities are very limited

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvedynamic response speedVSAvoiddevice structure

Core Design Contradiction:

SpeedVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces conventional mechanical or static phase shifting mechanisms with power electronic switching devices (IGBTs). This substitution enables microsecond-scale response times for phase angle and power flow control, dramatically improving dynamic capabilities compared to traditional mechanical phase shifters while maintaining a relatively simple single-transformer structure.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical 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

The CD-PAR effectively manages power flow by injecting a controllable voltage between AC sources, enabling efficient active and reactive power control, reducing the need for external energy sources and ensuring uninterrupted grid operation during faults, thus enhancing power system reliability and capacity.

Implementation Method 1

A phase angle regulator electrically couples two AC sources having different phase angles together through a transformer having a primary winding and a secondary winding

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectMagnetic coupling: Electromagnetic Induction

Implementation Method 2

The converter includes a first leg including a first insulated-gate bipolar transistor (IGBT) and a first anti-parallel diode, a second leg including a second IGBT and a second anti-parallel diode

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectSemiconductor switching:

Data Source

PatentUS9197065B2Compact dynamic phase angle regulators

Publication Date: 2015.11.24 GEORGIA TECH RES CORP

AI summary

Compact dynamic Phase Angle Regulators (CD-PARs) are provided. A Compact Dynamic Phase Angle Regulator (CD-PAR) is a stand-alone device that regulates phase angle through a single transformer. A CD-PAR has no external energy source, uses low-rating devices, and can be isolated from a fault in the grid. A CD-PAR may be implemented in a single-phase or in a three-phase configuration, but the operation of a CD-PAR cross-couples all three phases. A CD-PAR controls both the real and the reactive power flow between two AC sources having the same frequency by inserting a voltage with controllable magnitude and phase. A CD-PAR may be implemented in either a buck configuration or a boost configuration.