Series Stabilization Modules for DC Voltage Fluctuations
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing energy transmission infrastructure faces challenges in stabilizing DC voltage lines, particularly with long transmission distances and volatility in renewable energy sources, as current solutions primarily focus on AC voltage networks and lack cost-effective and reliable stabilization methods for DC voltage networks.
Innovation Solution
A modular device comprising stabilization modules with storage and balancing units, including controllable semiconductor switches, connected in series between DC voltage poles, allowing for direct connection to DC voltage lines and enabling reliable and cost-effective voltage stabilization by compensating short-term and long-term fluctuations without additional converter stations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If existing reactive power compensation systems (STATCOM or synchronous condensers) are used in AC voltage networks, then voltage stability can be maintained, but the solution is not cost-effective and reliable for DC voltage networks
Solution Approach 1:
The device is divided into multiple stabilization modules that can be connected in series. Each module contains storage elements and balancing circuits, allowing the system to be scaled according to voltage requirements while maintaining cost-effectiveness through modular deployment rather than requiring a single large-scale converter station
Solution Approach 2:
The stabilization modules use local balancing circuits with controllable semiconductor switches that automatically regulate voltage within each module. This self-regulating capability eliminates the need for additional stabilizing converter stations and reduces dependency on complex external control systems
2Reliability
If additional stabilizing converter stations are deployed in DC voltage networks, then voltage stability can be ensured, but the device complexity and cost increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The invention combines storage elements and balancing circuits into integrated stabilization modules that can be directly connected in series with the DC voltage line. This merged design replaces the need for separate converter stations and their associated control systems, significantly reducing device complexity while maintaining voltage stability
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of using complex converter stations to actively control voltage, the invention uses simple series-connected storage modules with passive balancing circuits. The approach inverts the conventional method by relying on the inherent properties of series-connected capacitive elements rather than active power conversion
3Adaptability or versatility
If stabilization modules are connected in series between DC voltage poles, then the device can be directly connected to DC voltage lines with different operating voltages, but the manufacturing and installation complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system is segmented into identical or standardized stabilization modules that can be manufactured using the same processes. Each module is designed to handle a specific voltage range, and multiple modules are connected in series to achieve higher voltages, maintaining manufacturing simplicity through repetition of standardized units
Solution Approach 2:
The stabilization modules are designed with universal interfaces and standardized connection points that allow them to be used across different DC voltage networks. The same module design can be deployed in various voltage classes by simply changing the number of modules connected in series, reducing manufacturing complexity through design universality
4Speed
If short-term storage devices are used, then fast reaction time to voltage fluctuations is achieved, but long-term voltage support capability is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The system merges short-term storage devices (for fast response) with long-term storage devices (for extended duration) within the same stabilization module or across multiple modules. This combination allows the system to simultaneously achieve fast reaction times for voltage fluctuations and long-term voltage support capability
Solution Approach 2:
The balancing circuits dynamically switch between different storage devices based on the nature of the voltage disturbance. For short-term fluctuations, the system utilizes fast-responding storage devices, while for longer-duration events, it engages long-term storage devices, creating a dynamic response strategy that optimizes both speed and duration
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
The device provides reliable and cost-effective voltage stabilization in DC voltage networks, supporting voltages for several hours, compensating short-term fluctuations, and ensuring long-term stability without interfering with existing converter station regulations, while allowing for even loading of storage modules and reducing the need for additional stabilizing converter stations.
Implementation Method 1
each stabilization module being an electrical storage module (11) with a balancing module (10)
Implementation Method 2
balancing module (10) with controllable semiconductor switches for balancing module voltages of the stabilization modules
Data Source
Figure 1
AI summary
The invention relates to the stabilization of a DC power grid. According to the invention, a device (1) for stabilizing a DC voltage in a DC line (DC+DC-) is provided, comprising a plurality of stabilization modules (Sl...Sn) which can be connected in series between a first and a second DC pole of the DC line (DC+DC-) for operating the device (1), wherein each stabilization module comprises a storage module (11) with an electrical storage element and a balancing module (10) with controllable semiconductor switches for balancing module voltages of the stabilization modules.