Converter Assembly Parallel Switch Segmentation

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing converter assemblies face challenges with high costs and energy losses due to slow switching of secondary current supplies.

Innovation Solution

A converter assembly with a switch system comprising parallel first and second switches, where the first switch has high switching speed and the second switch has low conduction losses, allowing for fast switching and reduced energy losses.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Speed

If a single switch is used for both fast switching and low conduction losses, then the switch can perform one function well, but it cannot achieve both fast switching speed and low conduction losses simultaneously

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveswitching speedVSAvoidconduction losses
Core Design Contradiction:
SpeedVSLoss of energy

Solution Approach 1:

The switch is divided into two separate switches (first switch and second switch) connected in parallel. The first switch is optimized for fast switching speed while the second switch is optimized for low conduction losses. This segmentation allows each switch to specialize in one function, resolving the contradiction between switching speed and conduction losses.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

Different parts of the switching system have different properties: the first switch has high switching speed capability but higher conduction losses, while the second switch has low conduction losses but slower switching speed. Each switch is designed with local quality optimized for its specific function, allowing the overall system to achieve both fast switching and low losses.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #3Local quality

2Speed

If a switch system optimized for fast switching is used, then switching speed is improved, but conduction losses increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveswitching speedVSAvoidconduction losses
Core Design Contradiction:
SpeedVSLoss of energy

Solution Approach 1:

The switch system dynamically transitions from the first switch to the second switch after switching is complete. The control system closes the first switch for fast turn-on, then transfers current to the second switch and opens the first switch. This dynamic operation allows the system to utilize the fast switching capability of the first switch only when needed, while using the low-loss second switch for steady-state conduction.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

3Loss of energy

If a switch system optimized for low conduction losses is used, then energy efficiency is improved, but switching speed decreases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveconduction lossesVSAvoidswitching speed
Core Design Contradiction:
Loss of energyVSSpeed

Solution Approach 1:

The first switch is closed in advance to enable fast switching operation. The control system anticipates the need for fast switching by closing the first switch before the actual switching event, allowing the system to achieve rapid response when needed. After the switching is complete, the system transitions to using the second switch for efficient steady-state operation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Data Source

PatentUS11404902B2Converter assembly
Publication Date: 2022.08.02 ABB (SCHWEIZ) AG
  • US11404902B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A converter assembly including a source connection system including a primary source connection, and a plurality of secondary source connections, a load connection system including a load connection, a secondary source bus bar system, a switch system including a plurality of switch units each connected electrically between a corresponding secondary source connection and the secondary source bus bar system, and at least one converter module including a DC link and a secondary source side converter. Each switch unit of the switch system includes a first switch and a second switch connected in parallel, wherein the first switch has a higher switching speed than the second switch, and the second switch has a lower conduction losses than the first switch.