Modular Multilevel Converter Sub-Module Auto-ID via Relay Path Counting
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Solution Overview
Problem
In Modular Multilevel Converters (MMC), manual allocation of unique identification numbers to sub-modules is time-consuming and prone to human errors, especially when the number of sub-modules changes, requiring significant operator workload.
Innovation Solution
A power conversion apparatus that includes a control device and a relay apparatus to autonomously generate identification information for each sub-module based on path information, reducing the need for manual number setting and minimizing errors.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If manual allocation of identification numbers is used for each sub-module, then unique identification can be achieved, but the workload of system operators increases significantly and human errors occur
Solution Approach 1:
Each sub-module autonomously generates its own identification information based on path information received from the relay apparatus. The sub-module counts the number of relay devices through which the communication signal passes and uses this count to create a unique identification number, eliminating the need for manual operator intervention in the identification allocation process
Solution Approach 2:
The relay apparatus transmits path information to sub-modules before the operation control period begins, during the initial setting period. This preliminary transmission of path information enables sub-modules to generate their identification numbers in advance, so that when the operation control period starts, all sub-modules are already properly identified and ready for control
2Reliability
If manual number setting is performed for each sub-module, then identification can be established, but the time required for initial setting increases enormously
Solution Approach 1:
Sub-modules automatically generate their own identification numbers by counting the path information from the relay apparatus, eliminating the time-consuming manual number setting process. This self-service mechanism allows rapid deployment of sub-modules without requiring operators to individually configure each unit
Solution Approach 2:
Path information is transmitted to all sub-modules during the initial setting period before operation begins. This preliminary configuration enables all sub-modules to generate their identification numbers in batch during setup, rather than requiring time-consuming individual configuration during operation or after deployment
3Ease of operation
If fixed cell numbers and carrier numbers are used, then control can be performed, but system changes require re-setting of all numbers
Solution Approach 1:
The identification information is generated dynamically based on the actual communication path from the control device to each sub-module. When the system configuration changes (e.g., adding or removing sub-modules), the relay apparatus automatically transmits new path information, and sub-modules regenerate their identification numbers accordingly, making the system adaptable to changes without manual reconfiguration
Solution Approach 2:
The identification numbers are not fixed but are instead derived from variable path information that changes with system configuration. The sub-modules calculate their identification based on the number of relay devices in the communication path, so when system topology changes, the identification parameters automatically update to reflect the new configuration
Data Source
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AI summary
A power conversion apparatus includes power conversion circuitry (2) including a plurality of sub-modules (7) connected in series to each other, a control device (30) to generate a control command for controlling operation of the plurality of sub-modules (7), and a relay apparatus (70) to relay communication between the control device (30) and the plurality of sub-modules (7). For each sub-module (7) of the plurality of sub-modules (7), the relay apparatus (70) generates path information indicating a communication path from the control device (30) to the sub-module (7), and outputs the generated path information to the sub-module (7). Each sub-module (7) of the plurality of sub-modules (7) generates identification information of the sub-module (7) based on the path information corresponding to the sub-module (7).