Dual DC Power Converter Segmentation for Loss Reduction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing power supply systems with DC power converters face inefficiencies due to high power losses, particularly in iron loss and conduction loss, when connecting DC power supplies in series or parallel configurations, which affect the overall efficiency of DC electric power conversion.
Innovation Solution
A power supply system with a power converter configuration that includes semiconductor elements and reactors, allowing for switching between series and parallel operation modes, controlled by a control device to optimize current paths and reduce conduction losses by using a second arm configuration during specific operational periods.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If DC power supplies are connected in parallel with a single boost chopper, then power allocation flexibility is improved, but the boost ratio becomes excessively high causing increased iron loss and power loss
Solution Approach 1:
The single boost chopper is segmented into two independent boost choppers (first boost chopper for first DC power supply, second boost chopper for second DC power supply). Each chopper handles one power supply independently, allowing flexible power allocation while maintaining appropriate boost ratios for each branch, thereby reducing iron loss and power loss caused by excessively high boost ratios.
Solution Approach 2:
The system transitions from a single-branch parallel configuration to a two-branch parallel configuration with independent choppers. This dimensional expansion allows each power supply to have its own dedicated conversion path, enabling flexible power allocation without forcing one chopper to handle excessive boost requirements that cause energy losses.
2Device complexity
If a single boost chopper handles both DC power supplies in parallel, then device complexity is reduced, but power conversion efficiency deteriorates due to high power loss
Solution Approach 1:
The single boost chopper is divided into two independent boost choppers, each dedicated to one DC power supply. Although this increases the number of components, it enables independent optimization of each conversion path, maintaining appropriate boost ratios and reducing power loss. The segmented structure allows flexible power allocation while improving overall conversion efficiency.
Solution Approach 2:
Each boost chopper is designed with multi-functionality to handle both power conversion and power allocation tasks independently. The first boost chopper manages the first DC power supply while the second handles the second DC power supply, creating a universal parallel architecture that achieves both structural simplicity and high efficiency.
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
This configuration reduces power losses and enhances the efficiency of DC electric power conversion by minimizing conduction losses in the switching elements, comparable to or better than existing systems, while maintaining flexibility in power allocation between DC power supplies.
Implementation Method 1
At least some of the first to fifth semiconductor elements each include a switching element configured to control formation and cut-off of a current path
Implementation Method 2
The first reactor is electrically connected in series with the first DC power supply, between the first node and the second power line. The second reactor is electrically connected in series with the second DC power supply
Data Source
AI summary
A power supply system includes first and second DC power supplies and a power converter having first to fifth semiconductor elements and first and second reactors. The first and fourth semiconductor elements are electrically connected between a first node and a second node, and a first power line, respectively. Second and third switching elements are electrically connected between the first node and the second node, and a second power line, respectively. A fifth switching element is electrically connected between the first node and the second node. The first reactor is electrically connected in series with the first DC power supply, between the first node and the second power line. The second reactor is electrically connected in series with the second DC power supply, between the first power line and the second node.