Converter Module Two-Way Switch Precharging via Optical Energy
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Solution Overview
Problem
Converter modules with bidirectional switches face challenges in precharging capacitors for initial operation or after maintenance, due to both current directions being blocked, leading to high technical effort and costs for insulation and limited service life of voltage supplies.
Innovation Solution
Providing a small amount of electrical energy through conversion of electromagnetic radiation to precharge the capacitor, using solar cells or photodiodes connected to optical waveguides, allowing the bidirectional switch to be activated quickly, and storing energy in capacitors or supercapacitors for reliable and cost-effective operational readiness.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If bidirectional switches are used to block both current directions, then short circuit protection is improved, but capacitor precharging capability deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The bidirectional switch is segmented into two separate unidirectional switches, each capable of blocking current in one direction. This segmentation allows the first unidirectional switch to be activated for capacitor precharging while the second unidirectional switch maintains blocking capability for short circuit protection, thus resolving the contradiction between protection reliability and precharging capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically switches between different switch configurations: during normal operation, the bidirectional switch blocks both directions for protection; during precharging, only the first unidirectional switch is activated to allow capacitor charging. This dynamic reconfiguration enables both short circuit protection and capacitor precharging to function properly at different operational stages.
2Use of energy by stationary object
If conventional electrical energy supply is used, then voltage supply is achieved, but insulation complexity and costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces conventional electrical energy supply systems with optical energy supply. Optical fibers transmit light energy to power the control circuits, eliminating the need for complex high-voltage insulation systems while providing reliable voltage supply for control functions.
3Use of energy by stationary object
If battery voltage supply is used, then voltage supply is achieved, but service life is limited and maintenance costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces battery-based voltage supply with optical energy supply through optical fibers. This substitution eliminates the limited service life and maintenance requirements of batteries, providing continuous, maintenance-free power supply for control circuits throughout the system's operational life.
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
Enables rapid and reliable startup of converter modules before initial operation or after maintenance, reducing maintenance costs and ensuring high availability with a cost-effective solution.
Implementation Method 1
a small amount of electrical energy is first provided by conversion from electromagnetic radiation
Implementation Method 2
using solar cells or photodiodes connected to optical waveguides
Data Source
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AI summary
The subject of the present invention is an arrangement for switching on a two-way switch of a converter module, characterized in that a power generation device for providing electric power for switching on the two-way switch is provided that is suitable for converting electromagnetic radiation into electric power. Further, subjects of the invention are a converter module for a modular multi-level converter having the arrangement and a method for producing operational standby for a converter module having a two-way switch.