Decentralized Modular Control for Static Converters
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Solution Overview
Problem
Static converters with parallel or series architectures require centralized control units, which limit the number of switching cells that can be controlled due to the need for numerous interconnections, and there is a need to increase the degree of local integration of converter control functions within control modules.
Innovation Solution
A decentralized modular control (CDM) system where each control module is capable of generating its own triangular carrier and determining local duty cycles and current/voltage corrections, reducing the reliance on centralized control by implementing local current and voltage balancing units and external regulation loops.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a centralized control unit is used to control multiple switching cells, then the control functions can be coordinated, but the number of interconnections increases and limits the number of controllable switching cells
Solution Approach 1:
The centralized control unit is segmented into multiple decentralized control modules, each controlling a subset of switching cells. This segmentation reduces the interconnection burden on any single control unit while maintaining coordinated control across all switching cells through modular architecture.
Solution Approach 2:
The control architecture transitions from a single-dimensional centralized control to a multi-dimensional decentralized control structure, where control functions are distributed across multiple spatial and functional dimensions, enabling scalability without proportional increase in interconnection complexity.
2Power
If more switching cells are controlled by a single control unit, then the converter capacity increases, but the control unit requires more legs and the number of interconnections increases
Solution Approach 1:
The converter capacity is segmented across multiple independent control modules, each managing a portion of the total power handling. This allows the system to scale in power capacity by adding modules without increasing the leg count or interconnection complexity of any single control unit.
Solution Approach 2:
Each control module is designed with universal functionality to handle multiple switching cells, enabling a single module type to serve various positions in the converter architecture. This multi-functionality reduces the need for specialized control units and minimizes interconnection requirements.
3Adaptability or versatility
If centralized control is implemented, then coordination between switching cells is achieved, but local integration of control functions is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
Control functions are segmented and distributed to local control modules, each capable of independent operation. This segmentation enables high local integration where each module contains complete control functionality for its assigned switching cells, while the overall system maintains coordination through modular interconnections.
Solution Approach 2:
Each control module is designed to be self-sufficient, generating its own triangular carrier and determining local duty cycles without requiring constant centralized intervention. This self-service capability maximizes local integration while simplifying the overall control structure.
Data Source
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AI summary
A static converter with parallel architecture (502) or series architecture comprises a plurality of switching cells (22, 24, 26, 28, 30), arranged in parallel or in series, and controlled in a decentralized manner by associated control modules (522, 524, 526, 528, 430), strung together according to a loop by a series of communication links. Each control module (526) comprises a single and different local unit for generating the triangular carrier (156) of the module which controls the positioning of its interleaving phase as a function only of the signals of the triangular carriers of the two adjacent modules (524, 528). Each control module (526) comprises, in the case of a parallel architecture, a local unit (266) for balancing the currents of branches and/or a unit for internal regulation of the output voltage of AVP type (536), and in the case of a series architecture, a local unit for balancing the cell voltages and/or a unit for internal regulation of the input current or output current of ACP type.