Hybrid DC Bus Regulator Using Transistor and Diode Segmentation

Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional AC-to-DC power conversion methods, such as diode rectifiers and SCRs, lack the fast switching capability and durability needed for stable power systems, particularly in unstable conditions like offshore drilling rigs, while transistors offer these benefits but at a higher cost and larger size.

Innovation Solution

A hybrid system combining transistors with diodes or SCRs, where transistors handle power loads during instability and diodes or SCRs handle stable conditions, regulated by a microcontroller to optimize power flow and reduce system size and cost.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If transistors are used for AC-to-DC power conversion, then fast switching capability and durability are improved, but cost and device size increase

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvefast switching capabilityVSAvoidsystem size

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The power conversion system is segmented into two distinct paths: one using transistors for fast switching during unstable conditions, and another using diodes or SCRs for cost-effective operation during stable conditions. This segmentation allows each component type to be optimized for its specific operating regime, reducing overall system complexity while maintaining reliability when needed.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The system dynamically switches between transistor-based and diode/SCR-based power conversion paths based on real-time detection of power system stability. The microcontroller monitors system conditions and activates the appropriate component type, making the system adaptable to changing operational requirements rather than being statically configured.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

2Reliability

If transistors are used for AC-to-DC power conversion, then fast switching capability is improved, but cost increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvefast switching capabilityVSAvoidcost

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The power conversion system is segmented into two distinct paths: one using transistors for fast switching during unstable conditions, and another using diodes or SCRs for cost-effective operation during stable conditions. This segmentation allows each component type to be optimized for its specific operating regime, reducing overall system complexity while maintaining reliability when needed.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The system changes its operational parameters by switching between different component types based on power system stability conditions. During unstable conditions, transistors are activated for fast response; during stable conditions, diodes or SCRs are used for cost-effective operation. This parameter change allows the system to optimize both reliability and cost depending on real-time requirements.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #35Parameter changes

3Device complexity

If diodes or SCRs are used for AC-to-DC power conversion, then cost and device size are reduced, but fast switching capability and durability are lost

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvesystem sizeVSAvoidfast switching capability

Core Design Contradiction:

Device complexityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The system dynamically switches between transistor-based and diode/SCR-based power conversion paths based on real-time detection of power system stability. The microcontroller monitors system conditions and activates the appropriate component type, making the system adaptable to changing operational requirements rather than being statically configured.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The microcontroller acts as an intermediary that manages the switching between different power conversion paths. It detects power system stability conditions and controls which component type (transistors or diodes/SCRs) is active, enabling the system to achieve fast switching capability when needed while using cost-effective components during stable operation.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

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 hybrid system maintains fast switching capability when needed, reducing size and cost by utilizing transistors only during unstable conditions and diodes or SCRs during stability, enhancing the reliability and efficiency of power conversion.

Implementation Method 1

a transistor pack configured to perform AC-to-DC power conversion and DC-to-AC power conversion, the transistor pack including at least a first input and a second input

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectElectrical conduction control: Conduction (electrical)

Implementation Method 2

a diode pack coupled to the AC bus and to the DC bus

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectRectification: Diode

Data Source

PatentUS7880342B2DC bus regulator

Publication Date: 2011.02.01 TRANSOCEAN SEDCO FOREX VENTURES LTD

AI summary

An improved DC bus regulator that utilizes more transistor packs for power conversion at some times and diode, SCR, and resistor packs at other times. The conversion technology is selected by the regulator based on the current load capacity and response required. For example, transistor packs may be used in low power load conditions. Through use of this hybrid system, the system obtains the desirable effects of transistor pack systems including fast response time, ability to regulate current, and bi-directional power conversion while mitigating the high costs and fragile nature of a system based solely on transistor packs.