Power Converter Controller for Multi-Protocol Host System Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing power systems with multiple power converters face complexity in control interfaces, inefficiency, and inability to monitor and control parameters beyond power conversion, especially in highly complex systems with varied host protocols and standards.
Innovation Solution
A power system with a power converter controller that integrates a processor, ADC/DAC, and communications gateway, enabling precise control and monitoring of power converters and host system elements, supporting multiple communication protocols, and providing low latency responses.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If one or two interfaces are provided at the individual converter level, then the control interface is simplified at the converter level, but the overall system control becomes overly complicated and inefficient when numerous points of conversion are employed
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple converter-level interfaces into a single centralized control interface that can manage all power converters. The controller consolidates communication with numerous converters through unified protocols, reducing the number of interface points while maintaining comprehensive control capability across the entire power system.
Solution Approach 2:
The controller is designed with universal communication capabilities that support multiple protocols and interface types simultaneously. This multi-functional approach allows a single control interface to adapt to different converter types and communication standards, simplifying system-wide control without requiring specialized interfaces for each converter.
2Device complexity
If typical power system controllers are focused solely on power conversion, then the controller design is simplified, but the ability to monitor and control parameters beyond the power converter assembly is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The controller is designed as a multi-functional platform that handles both power conversion control and general system monitoring. It incorporates universal communication interfaces and processing capabilities that enable it to manage diverse parameters including temperature, pressure, and other host system variables beyond just power conversion metrics.
Solution Approach 2:
The controller's functionality is made dynamic and configurable through programmable interfaces and adaptable communication protocols. This allows the controller to expand its monitoring and control capabilities beyond power conversion as needed, while maintaining a relatively simple base design that can be customized for specific application requirements.
3Speed
If high speed digital communications are utilized to enhance control interface, then control precision and response speed are improved, but system wiring and interconnect complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple communication functions and protocols into a unified digital communication architecture. By merging communication pathways and using intelligent routing within the controller, high-speed digital communication capabilities are achieved while reducing the physical wiring requirements compared to traditional multi-protocol implementations.
Data Source
AI summary
A power system and method of operating the same. In one embodiment, the power system includes a plurality of power converters configured to power a host system. The power system also includes a power converter controller configured to provide a status of and control the plurality of power converters and at least one system element of the host system responsive to a plurality of host system signals. The control includes a scripted sequence of events as function of a change of an operational condition of at least one of the plurality of power converters and the host system.