DC-DC Converter Submodule Firmware Updates Using Internal Capacitor Power
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Current DC-DC converters for HVDC systems require a separate power supply for firmware updates, which is unsafe and inefficient, especially in high-voltage direct current transmission systems, where updating multiple submodules is time-consuming and costly.
Innovation Solution
A submodule configuration that allows program updates during operation by using a power switching element, DC capacitor, power supply unit, submodule controller, memory, and communication unit, enabling firmware updates during start or stop sequences without a separate power supply, utilizing optical communication for data transfer and temporary storage of update files.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a separate power supply is connected for firmware updates, then update capability is enabled, but safety risk increases due to insulation requirements and operational hazards
Solution Approach 1:
The submodule uses its own internal DC capacitor to power the controller during firmware updates, eliminating the need for external power connections. The controller is powered by the DC capacitor voltage, allowing the submodule to service itself during update operations without external intervention or safety risks associated with external power connections.
2Productivity
If firmware updates are performed during system operation, then productivity is improved, but control complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The firmware update process is integrated into the existing start and stop sequences of the submodule. During the start sequence, the controller is powered by the DC capacitor before the submodule begins normal operation, providing a natural window for firmware updates. Similarly, during the stop sequence, the controller remains powered long enough to complete updates before the submodule fully shuts down. This preliminary action approach allows updates to occur during operational transitions without requiring separate update procedures.
3Reliability
If multiple submodules are updated individually with separate power supplies, then update reliability is maintained, but time consumption increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the power supply function for firmware updates into the submodule's own DC capacitor, allowing multiple submodules to be updated simultaneously without requiring separate external power connections for each unit. This combining of functions enables parallel update operations across multiple submodules, dramatically reducing total update time while maintaining reliability through the standardized internal power mechanism.
4Use of energy by moving object
If external power connection is required for updates, then power stability is ensured, but operational downtime increases
Solution Approach 1:
The submodule uses its own DC capacitor, which remains charged during operation, to power the controller during firmware updates. This self-service approach eliminates the need to disconnect from the power system or wait for external power connections, allowing updates to occur during normal operational transitions without causing downtime.
Data Source
AI summary
A submodule for conversion of DC power capable of a plurality thereof being connected in series and used for DC-DC conversion in accordance with the present invention comprises: a power switching element for switching DC power supply to convert a source of DC including voltage transformation; a DC capacitor for storing DC power opened or closed by the power switching element; a power supply unit for supplying power required to drive the submodule from the DC capacitor; a submodule controller for controlling whole operation of the submodule; memory for storing data required for operating the submodule controller; and a communicating unit for performing data communication with an external device; wherein the submodule controller may perform a program update during a start sequence of the submodule or during a stop sequence thereof, while DC-DC conversion is operated.