Modular HV Converter Sub-Module Alignment and Mounting

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Solution Overview

Problem

The installation and maintenance of high voltage circuits, such as voltage-source converters, are hindered by the weight and height of modules, requiring the removal of entire modules for sub-module replacements, making the process difficult and inefficient.

Innovation Solution

A module support system that allows individual mounting and alignment of sub-modules, enabling the formation of modules directly on the support, reducing the need to handle heavy modules and facilitating maintenance by allowing sub-module replacements without removing complementary sub-modules.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of repair

If modules are packed together in one package in a casing, then the high voltage circuit is easily repairable by replacing each module, but the installation becomes particularly difficult due to the weight of a module (around 150 kg) and the height of the module support

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveease of repairVSAvoidease of installation
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of repairVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The patent divides a complete module into two separate sub-modules (first sub-module and second sub-module) that can be independently handled and installed. This segmentation reduces the weight and size of individual components that technicians must manipulate at height, while still allowing the complete module to function as a replaceable unit for repair purposes.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The invention extracts the electrical device (such as DC capacitor) from its traditional packaged position within a complete module casing. Instead, the electrical device sub-module can be separately mounted on the module support, allowing installation and maintenance operations to be performed on lighter, separate components rather than handling the entire heavy module assembly.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #2Taking out (Extraction)

2Ease of repair

If modules are packed together in one package in a casing, then the high voltage circuit is easily repairable by replacing each module, but even if it is necessary to change only one sub-module of a module it is required to remove the entire module from the module support

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveease of repairVSAvoidmaintenance time
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of repairVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

By segmenting the module into two independently mountable sub-modules, the patent enables technicians to replace only the defective sub-module in situ on the module support, rather than removing and replacing the entire module assembly. This significantly reduces maintenance time and operational disruption.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The invention creates a dynamic maintenance system where the degree of replacement can be adjusted based on actual needs - technicians can replace just one sub-module when that is sufficient, or both sub-modules if needed, providing flexibility that optimizes maintenance time and resource utilization.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

3Adaptability or versatility

If modules are packed together in one package in a casing, then the module can be controlled as a single unit, but the installation and maintenance process becomes complex and inefficient

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecontrol flexibilityVSAvoidinstallation complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent segments the module into two independently controllable and mountable sub-modules, each with its own connection interfaces. This allows for simpler, more flexible installation procedures where sub-modules can be mounted independently, while still enabling the complete module to function as a unified controlled unit when both sub-modules are assembled together.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Data Source

PatentEP3254539B1Assembly of modules, module support and module
Publication Date: 2021.07.28 ALSTOM TECH LTD
  • EP3254539B1 patent drawingFigure 1~2

AI summary

The invention relates to an assembly of modules (10) for an electrical circuit comprising: a module support (100) for at least two modules (200) and at least two modules (200), each module (200) comprising two complementary connectable sub-modules (210, 220). The module support (200) comprises for each sub-module (210, 220) at least an alignment member adapted to individually align the sub-module (210, 220) during its installation on the module support (100) in such way to connect it to complementary sub-module (220, 210) already installed on the module support (100) to form one of the modules (200). The invention also relates on a module support (100), a module (200) and a Flexible Alternative Current Transmission Systems.