Dynamic Switching Frequency Control for Power Converter Efficiency

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Solution Overview

Problem

Power converters face challenges in efficiently managing switching frequency, leading to increased power losses and harmonic generation, which are not effectively addressed by fixed frequency approaches.

Innovation Solution

A system comprising a power converter, detector, and controller that dynamically adjusts the switching frequency based on detected system conditions, such as the number of operational wind turbines or grid conditions, to reduce power losses and harmonics.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Productivity

If higher frequency switching signals are used, then power conversion efficiency is improved, but power losses increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvepower conversion efficiencyVSAvoidpower losses
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSLoss of energy

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies dynamics by transitioning from fixed-frequency switching to variable-frequency switching. The controller dynamically adjusts the switching frequency of the power converter based on real-time system conditions (number of operational wind turbines, grid status). This allows the system to optimize performance by using higher frequencies when needed for efficiency and lower frequencies when power losses become excessive, thus resolving the contradiction between productivity and energy loss.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The patent changes the parameter of switching frequency from a constant value to a variable parameter. By detecting system conditions and adjusting the frequency parameter accordingly, the system can adapt to different operational scenarios. When multiple turbines are operating, the frequency can be reduced to minimize cumulative power losses, while maintaining adequate conversion efficiency through coordinated control.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

2Loss of energy

If lower frequency switching signals are used, then power losses are reduced, but harmonic components increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvepower lossesVSAvoidharmonic components
Core Design Contradiction:
Loss of energyVSObject-generated harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The dynamic frequency adjustment allows the system to respond to changing conditions. When the number of operational turbines is low, the controller can use lower switching frequencies to reduce power losses without causing significant harmonic issues. When more turbines operate, the frequency is increased to suppress harmonics, demonstrating dynamic adaptation to resolve the contradiction between energy loss reduction and harmonic suppression.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The system employs feedback through the detector that monitors system conditions (number of operational wind turbines, grid status). This feedback information is used by the controller to adjust the switching frequency, creating a closed-loop control system. The feedback mechanism ensures that frequency adjustments are made based on actual system state, preventing excessive harmonic generation while minimizing power losses.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

3Device complexity

If fixed frequency switching is used, then system complexity is reduced, but adaptability to system conditions deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesystem complexityVSAvoidadaptability to system conditions
Core Design Contradiction:
Device complexityVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements dynamics by making the switching frequency adjustable based on system conditions. The controller receives input from the detector about the number of operational wind turbines and grid status, then dynamically modifies the switching frequency accordingly. This dynamic capability significantly improves adaptability to varying system conditions while adding only moderate complexity through the detection and control logic.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Data Source

PatentUS9190923B2System and method for converter switching frequency control
Publication Date: 2015.11.17 GE INFRASTRUCTURE TECH LLC
  • US9190923B2 patent drawing
  • US9190923B2 patent drawing
  • US9190923B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A system for power conversion includes a power converter having switching elements, a detector, and a controller is provided. The detector detects a parameter and provides electrical signals indicative of the parameter. The controller receives the electrical signals transmitted from the detector, and sends commands to instruct the power converter to perform power conversion by operating the switching elements in accordance with switching signals at a different frequency in response to a detection of the system condition. A method for operating the system is also provided.