HVDC Network Interconnection for Multi-Grid Power Flow Control

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing HVDC power transmission networks face challenges in efficiently interconnecting multiple power distribution networks with varying voltage levels and managing intermittent power generation from renewable sources, leading to power delivery congestion and inefficiencies.

Innovation Solution

A network interconnection system comprising a power converter station, an interconnection bus, power regulators, and a power flow controller that adjusts voltage sources and regulators to coordinate power distribution across multiple power distribution networks, accommodating different voltage levels and managing active and reactive power demands.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Power

If power is transmitted from renewable energy sources like wind parks, then power generation capacity is improved, but uncertainty in power distribution and congestion problems worsen

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvepower generation capacityVSAvoidpower distribution reliability
Core Design Contradiction:
PowerVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent introduces a power converter station as an intermediary device between the renewable energy source and multiple distribution networks. This converter station converts DC power from wind parks to AC power and distributes it through multiple paths (primary and secondary distribution networks), thereby mediating the uncertainty and congestion issues by providing flexible routing and conversion capabilities.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Device complexity

If power is delivered into a single power distribution network, then device complexity is reduced, but adaptability to different market requirements and network conditions worsens

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvenetwork configuration complexityVSAvoidadaptability to market requirements
Core Design Contradiction:
Device complexityVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The power converter station is designed with multi-functionality to serve multiple distribution networks simultaneously. It can connect to both primary and secondary distribution networks, providing universal adaptability to different market requirements and network conditions while maintaining a relatively simple core conversion mechanism.

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

3Power

If converters are installed at each AC-DC interface, then power conversion capability is improved, but device complexity and cost increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvepower conversion capabilityVSAvoidconverter station quantity
Core Design Contradiction:
PowerVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent merges multiple conversion functions into a single power converter station that can serve multiple distribution networks. Instead of installing separate converters at each AC-DC interface, one converter station performs conversions for both primary and secondary distribution networks, thereby reducing overall device complexity and cost while maintaining adequate conversion capability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

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

Enables reliable and flexible power distribution to multiple networks, reducing the need for reactive power compensation devices and alleviating congestion by allowing power to be distributed as needed, thus enhancing network stability and efficiency.

Implementation Method 1

converters (i.e. power converters) are required at each interface between AC and DC power to affect the required conversion from AC to DC or from DC to AC

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectPower conversion (DC to AC): Electromagnetic Induction

Implementation Method 2

a power regulator electrically connected between the interconnection bus and the or each secondary point of interconnection, the or each power regulator being operable to control the flow of power

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectPower flow control:

Implementation Method 3

a power flow controller arranged in operative communication with the power converter station and the or each power regulator and programmed to adjust the alternating voltage source provided by the power converter station to control the power delivered

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectVoltage control:

Data Source

PatentUS12614907B2Or relating to power transmission networks
Publication Date: 2026.04.28 GE VERNOVA INFRASTRUCTURE TECHNOLOGY LLC
  • US12614907B2 patent drawing
  • US12614907B2 patent drawing
  • US12614907B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A network interconnection, for interconnecting a power supply network with a number of power distribution networks, including a power converter station that is connected in use adjacent to an end of a power supply network and is controllable to provide an alternating voltage source. The network interconnection also includes an interconnection bus which extends from the power converter station towards a primary point of interconnection that is connected, in use, with a primary power distribution network and at least one secondary point of interconnection which is connected, in use, with a corresponding secondary power distribution network. The network interconnection additionally includes a power regulator that is electrically connected between the interconnection bus and each secondary point of interconnection. The network interconnection further includes a power flow controller that is arranged in operative communication with the power converter station and each power regulator.