Power Converter Ground Fault Localization by Switching Frequency
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing ground fault detection methods in high-voltage and high-power applications, such as mobile machines, are not sufficiently responsive or accurate, particularly in complex and dynamic environments, making it challenging to rapidly identify and precisely localize ground faults in power converter systems.
Innovation Solution
The system monitors electrical parameters using sensors to detect and isolate ground faults by operating electrical converters at different switching frequencies, employing filters and frequency analysis to identify the source of the fault based on frequency content.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If traditional ground fault detection methods are used in high-voltage power systems, then the system can operate with high voltage, but the detection response is slow and localization precision is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by operating multiple electrical converters at different switching frequencies and dynamically analyzing the frequency content of leakage currents. The system adaptively identifies which switching frequency corresponds to the ground fault source, enabling rapid and precise localization without system shutdown.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the switching frequency parameter of electrical converters to create distinguishable frequency signatures. By monitoring leakage current at different frequencies and comparing them against known converter frequencies, the system precisely identifies the fault source location.
2Measurement precision
If multiple electrical converters operate at the same switching frequency, then the system structure is simpler, but the ground fault source cannot be precisely identified
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the frequency spectrum by assigning different switching frequencies to different electrical converters. This frequency segmentation allows the monitoring system to distinguish which converter is the fault source by detecting which frequency appears in the leakage current signal.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces frequency analysis as an intermediary mechanism between the converters and the fault detection system. By analyzing the frequency content of leakage currents and matching them against the known switching frequencies of converters, the system precisely identifies the fault source without direct physical inspection.
Data Source
AI summary
Techniques are described for detecting and isolating ground faults within power converter systems, particularly in high-voltage and high-power applications such as mobile machines. The disclosed techniques monitor an electrical parameter of the system to enable the rapid identification and precise localization of ground faults.