Insulated Submodule Layout for Compact Power Conversion
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional power conversion apparatuses require large distances between adjacent cell converters for insulation, leading to increased size, weight, and footprint due to the absence of insulating members between them.
Innovation Solution
The apparatus incorporates a plurality of submodules insulated by an insulating structure, comprising insulating housings or racks, which align in orthogonal directions to reduce the distance between adjacent submodules, eliminating the need for additional insulating shields and reducing weight.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If no insulating member is disposed between two cell converters, then the device complexity is reduced, but the distance between adjacent cell converters must be increased to ensure insulation
Solution Approach 1:
An insulating member is introduced as an intermediary element between adjacent cell converters. This insulating member includes an insulating housing that surrounds at least a portion of the cell converters and an insulating rack that supports the cell converters, thereby providing the necessary electrical insulation without requiring increased spacing between converters.
Solution Approach 2:
The insulation function is transitioned from a spatial dimension (increased distance between converters) to a structural dimension (insulating housing and rack enveloping the converters). By adding the insulating member as a surrounding structure, insulation is achieved without increasing the footprint or spacing between adjacent converters.
2Reliability
If the distance between adjacent cell converters is increased, then insulation is ensured, but the footprint and height of the power conversion apparatus are increased
Solution Approach 1:
The insulating member acts as a mediator that provides the necessary electrical insulation between cell converters without requiring increased spacing. The insulating housing and rack create localized insulation zones around each converter, allowing compact arrangement while maintaining insulation reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The insulating housing and rack are merged into a single integrated insulating member structure. This combined structure provides both mechanical support and electrical insulation functions simultaneously, eliminating the need for separate insulation components and reducing overall footprint.
3Reliability
If the distance between adjacent cell converters is increased, then insulation is ensured, but the weight of the power conversion apparatus is increased
Solution Approach 1:
The insulating member provides a compact insulation solution that prevents the need for increased spacing. By using a dedicated insulating housing and rack structure, the design achieves reliable insulation without the weight penalty associated with larger spacing requirements.
Solution Approach 2:
The insulation approach changes from spatial parameter (distance between converters) to material parameter (insulating properties of housing and rack). This parameter change allows maintaining compact dimensions while achieving the required insulation level, thereby controlling the overall weight.
Data Source
AI summary
A power conversion apparatus comprises a plurality of submodules and an insulating structure. The plurality of submodules are aligned in at least one of a first direction and a second direction orthogonal to the first direction. Adjacent two of the submodules are insulated from each other by the insulating structure.