Dual Inverter Power Conversion System for Efficient MPPT

Resolve Bottlenecks,
Find Innovative Solutions
Generate Solutions

Solution Overview

Problem

Existing power conversion systems, particularly module-integrated converters (MICs), face challenges in achieving high power conversion efficiency due to lower efficiency compared to large inverters and require different hardware designs, making it difficult to utilize existing MICs effectively in large capacity systems.

Innovation Solution

A power conversion system with a DC bus line and two inverters, where the first inverter operates when the input power exceeds a threshold, and the second inverter starts only when necessary, allowing for efficient operation without changing the hardware structure of existing MICs, and performing maximum power point tracking (MPPT) to optimize energy conversion.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Productivity

If multiple MICs are used to achieve large capacity system, then energy harvesting capability is improved, but power conversion efficiency deteriorates and cost burden increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveenergy harvesting capabilityVSAvoidpower conversion efficiency
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSLoss of energy

Solution Approach 1:

The system segments the power conversion function by using multiple inverters (first inverter and second inverter) that can operate independently or in coordination. Each inverter handles a portion of the power conversion, allowing the system to achieve large capacity while maintaining efficient operation through selective activation based on power levels.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The system changes operational parameters by dynamically adjusting which inverter operates based on input power threshold. When input power exceeds a predetermined threshold, the second inverter is activated; otherwise, only the first inverter operates. This parameter-based control optimizes power conversion efficiency across different operating conditions.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

2Productivity

If multiple MICs are used to achieve large capacity system, then energy harvesting capability is improved, but cost burden deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveenergy harvesting capabilityVSAvoidcost burden
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSQuantity of substance

Solution Approach 1:

The system implements dynamic operation where the second inverter is activated only when necessary (when input power exceeds the threshold). This dynamic approach allows the system to scale capacity while minimizing the actual usage and cost impact of additional inverter components.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The first inverter is designed to handle both low-power and high-power operations, while the second inverter provides supplementary capacity when needed. This multi-functional design allows existing MIC hardware to be utilized effectively, reducing the need for entirely new hardware investments.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

3Adaptability or versatility

If existing MIC hardware is used, then hardware compatibility is improved, but power conversion efficiency deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvehardware compatibilityVSAvoidpower conversion efficiency
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSLoss of energy

Solution Approach 1:

The system uses feedback control by continuously monitoring the input power level and comparing it against a predetermined threshold. Based on this feedback, the controller dynamically determines whether to activate the second inverter, thereby optimizing power conversion efficiency while maintaining compatibility with existing MIC hardware.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

Solution Approach 2:

The system performs preliminary action by pre-setting the operational threshold and determining in advance which inverter configuration should be used based on expected power levels. This allows existing MIC hardware to be utilized effectively while preparing the optimal operational mode beforehand.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

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 approach enhances power conversion efficiency by optimizing inverter operation based on input power levels and voltage conditions, reducing costs and improving energy harvesting without requiring new hardware, thus addressing the inefficiencies and cost burdens of existing MICs.

Implementation Method 1

the inverter converts the direct current (DC) power produced by the solar panel to alternating current (AC) power

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectPower conversion:

Implementation Method 2

the first inverter may perform a maximum power point tracking (MPPT) by detecting a common terminal voltage and a first input current provided from the common terminal

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectMaximum power point tracking:

Data Source

PatentUS10985571B2Power conversion system and operation method thereof
Publication Date: 2021.04.20 ELECTRONICS & TELECOMM RES INST
  • US10985571B2 patent drawing
  • US10985571B2 patent drawing
  • US10985571B2 patent drawing

AI summary

Provided is a power conversion system. The system includes a DC bus line including a common terminal, a power generation device configured to provide DC power to the common terminal, a first inverter configured to convert a first input power provided from the common terminal into a first AC power and output the first AC power, and a second inverter configured to convert a second input power provided from the common terminal into a second AC power in response to the first input power being greater than a first threshold power while the first inverter operates and output the second AC power.