Modular Multi-Point Converter with Decoupled Energy Storage
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing converter arrangements face challenges in efficiency, reliability, and flexibility, particularly in integrating energy storage devices with different voltage levels and types, and in maintaining stability of AC voltage networks.
Innovation Solution
The converter arrangement includes voltage converter modules interconnected in series on the input side, connected to energy storage modules on the output side, allowing for a parallel connection to converter valves, enabling flexible connection and independent regulation of energy storage branches, which can be decoupled from the AC voltage side, and allowing for the use of various energy storage devices.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If energy storage devices with different voltage levels and types are integrated into converter arrangements, then energy storage capacity and versatility are improved, but system complexity and integration difficulty increase
Solution Approach 1:
The energy storage branch is divided into multiple independent energy storage modules, each with its own voltage converter module. This segmentation allows different types and voltage levels of energy storage devices to be integrated independently without increasing overall system complexity, as each module operates autonomously while contributing to the total storage capacity.
Solution Approach 2:
The voltage converter modules are designed with universal functionality to handle different voltage levels and energy storage device types. These modules can convert between various DC voltage levels and interface with different energy storage technologies (batteries, capacitors, flywheels), providing multi-functionality that simplifies integration of diverse energy storage devices into the converter arrangement.
2Reliability
If energy storage branches are decoupled from the AC voltage side, then reliability and stability are improved, but control flexibility is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The DC voltage side of the converter acts as an intermediary between the energy storage branch and the AC voltage network. By decoupling the energy storage branch from direct AC connection while maintaining control through the DC side, the system achieves improved reliability and stability (as AC disturbances don't directly affect storage) while preserving control flexibility through the converter's ability to regulate power flow independently.
3Power
If voltage converter modules are interconnected in series, then voltage conversion capability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The voltage conversion function is segmented into multiple independent voltage converter modules connected in series. Each module handles a specific voltage conversion stage, which improves overall voltage conversion capability while keeping individual module complexity low. The modular series connection allows scalable voltage conversion without requiring a single complex converter.
Data Source
AI summary
A converter assembly has a converter with multiple converter valves, each with a plurality of semiconductor switches, and with a stored energy source branch which is connected in parallel with at least one of the converter valves. The stored energy source branch has voltage converter modules and stored energy source modules. The voltage converter modules are connected to one another in a series circuit on the input side and to the respectively associated stored energy source module on the output side. There is also described an assembly having the stored energy source branch and a method for stabilizing an alternating current system by way of the converter assembly.