Configurable Power Electronics Module for Multi-Form Power Conversion
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Solution Overview
Problem
Work machines require efficient power distribution and conversion of electricity from a single form to multiple forms, such as AC and DC electricity at various voltage and current levels, which existing technologies have not adequately addressed.
Innovation Solution
A power electronics module (PEM) with configurable power conversion circuits is constructed using rigid conductor elements and a controller to convert electricity from an input form to an output form, and a power cabinet with module bays to produce multiple forms of electricity from a DC power source, utilizing semiconductor switches operated by a controller for precise timing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple separate power conversion devices are used to provide different forms of electricity, then the power requirements of work machines can be met, but the device complexity and space requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a single power conversion device that can operate in multiple modes (rectifier, inverter, DC-DC converter) to provide different forms of electricity. The controller selectively activates different switching configurations within the same device, allowing one unit to replace multiple specialized devices, thereby reducing system complexity while maintaining versatility
Solution Approach 2:
The power conversion device is divided into modular functional blocks with independent switching circuits that can be selectively activated. This segmentation allows the device to perform different functions by activating specific modules, enabling flexibility without requiring complete separate devices for each function
2Productivity
If a centralized power distribution system is implemented, then power management efficiency improves, but the requirement for configurable power conversion circuits increases complexity
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs dynamically controllable switching circuits that can reconfigure their topology based on real-time power distribution requirements. The controller adjusts the switching states of semiconductor devices to adapt the circuit configuration, enabling a single centralized device to handle multiple power conversion tasks without requiring multiple fixed-topology circuits
Solution Approach 2:
The power conversion device changes its operational parameters (switching frequencies, duty cycles, connection topologies) through controller management to achieve different power conversion functions. By dynamically adjusting these parameters, the system maintains efficiency while reducing the need for complex hardware reconfiguration
Data Source
AI summary
A power electronics module (PEM) is constructed to convert electricity from an input form to an output form. Electrical power conversion subcircuits having input and output ports are positioned proximal to a front mounting plate. Rigid conductor elements having respective preformed shapes are constructed to electrically interconnect the subcircuits at input and output ports thereof to form a power conversion circuit selected from among multiple power conversion circuits configurable solely by selection of the conductor elements. Other preformed conductor shapes are constructed to interconnect input and output ports of the selected power conversion circuit to ports disposed on a rear mounting plate. A controller is mechanically coupled to the front mounting plate and constructed to operate the semiconductor switches in a prescribed timing that converts the electricity of the input form to the electricity of the output form by the selected power conversion circuit.