Head End Power Module Dual Inverter Phase Shift
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing head end power modules for passenger train locomotives face challenges in controlling generator speed and synchronizing power inverters, leading to high harmonic content and inefficient fuel consumption, especially when the train is stopped.
Innovation Solution
A power module comprising two independently controlled inverters connected through a transformer with line filters, where each inverter's operational phase is shifted by 180 degrees based on power characteristics to synchronize and reduce harmonic distortion.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Use of energy by moving object
If two power inverters are configured in parallel to reduce generator speed, then fuel consumption is reduced, but synchronization control becomes difficult and harmonic content increases
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of controlling two parallel inverters directly (which is difficult), the patent inverts the approach by using a single inverter with a transformer that has multiple secondary windings. This transforms the complex parallel control problem into a simpler single-inverter control problem while still achieving reduced generator speed operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent segments the power output into multiple secondary windings on the transformer, each serving different functions (traction motors and auxiliary devices). This allows the single inverter to effectively deliver power to multiple loads independently, maintaining system functionality while simplifying control architecture.
2Speed
If two power inverters are configured in parallel to reduce generator speed, then generator operational speed is reduced, but synchronization of the two power inverters becomes sub-optimal
Solution Approach 1:
The patent inverts the conventional parallel inverter approach by using a single inverter with a multi-winding transformer. This eliminates synchronization issues between multiple inverters while maintaining the ability to operate the generator at reduced speeds and deliver power to multiple loads effectively.
3Reliability
If the generator runs at top speed to produce constant power, then power supply reliability is improved, but fuel consumption increases and noise increases when train is stopped
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the operational parameters by allowing the generator to run at reduced speeds while using power electronics (inverter and transformer) to maintain constant power output quality. This enables flexible speed operation without compromising power supply reliability, reducing fuel consumption and noise during stationary periods.
4Adaptability or versatility
If two power inverters are controlled together to reduce generator speed, then power conversion flexibility is improved, but harmonic content becomes unnecessarily high due to varying generator speeds
Solution Approach 1:
The patent inverts the control approach by using a single inverter instead of two parallel inverters. This simplifies the control architecture, eliminating the synchronization difficulties and harmonic generation issues associated with controlling multiple inverters together, while maintaining power conversion flexibility through the transformer's multiple secondary windings.
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
The solution enables efficient power generation with low harmonic distortion and reduced engine speed, improving power quality and fuel efficiency by synchronizing the operational phases of the inverters and filtering out harmonic signals.
Implementation Method 1
a transformer. The transformer may include a first primary winding connected to the first power inverter and a second primary winding connected to the second power inverter
Implementation Method 2
A first line filter may be connected between the first inverter and the transformer, where the first line filter is configured to reduce an harmonic signal component from the first inverted power
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure is directed to a method for generating power for a machine. The method may include inverting a common power at a first location and outputting a first inverted power. The method may further include inverting the common power at a second location, outputting a second inverted power, and shifting an operational phase of the second inverted power so that the first inverted power and the second inverted power are in phase. The method may further include passing the first inverted power to a transformer, passing the second inverted power to the transformer, and transforming the first inverted power and the second inverted power to a transformed power.