Modular Power Electronic Conversion System for Aircraft
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional power electronics systems lack flexibility and efficiency in adapting power conversion to meet the diverse electrical needs of various loads and power sources, particularly in dynamic environments such as aircraft and vehicle systems, where pre-configured architectures are often inflexible and costly to maintain.
Innovation Solution
A modular power electronic conversion system comprising interchangeable components like DC output/EMI modules, common power modules, and exciter power modules, which can be selectively configured and controlled to convert power from any source to a desired output, including AC to DC, DC to AC, and AC to AC, using sensors and controllers to ensure optimal electrical characteristics.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If pre-configured power electronics systems are used, then system reliability is improved, but adaptability to diverse electrical needs deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The power electronics system is divided into modular components (rectifier modules, inverter modules, control modules) that can be independently selected and configured. Each module performs a specific function and can be combined with others to create customized power conversion systems tailored to specific electrical needs while maintaining reliable operation through standardized interfaces and control protocols.
Solution Approach 2:
The modular power electronics architecture enables universal power conversion capabilities where the same basic module types can serve multiple functions across different applications. By configuring different combinations of rectifiers, inverters, and control modules, the system can adapt to diverse electrical needs (AC-DC, DC-AC, AC-AC conversion) while maintaining consistent reliability standards through standardized design and control methodologies.
2Stability of the object's composition
If pre-configured power electronics systems are used, then system stability is improved, but flexibility in adapting to various loads and sources deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The system incorporates dynamic reconfiguration capabilities where modular power electronics components can be selectively activated or deactivated based on real-time operational requirements. The control module dynamically adjusts system configuration to match varying load characteristics and power source conditions, maintaining system stability through controlled transitions while providing flexibility to adapt to different operating scenarios.
Solution Approach 2:
The standardized modular architecture provides universal interfaces and control mechanisms that maintain system stability across different configurations. The same basic module types can be universally applied to various power sources (AC, DC, renewable) and load types (resistive, inductive, capacitive) while the control system ensures stable operation through consistent control algorithms and protection schemes.
3Reliability
If multiple specialized power conversion systems are designed for different applications, then application-specific performance is improved, but device complexity and maintenance costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The modular power electronics system provides a universal platform where the same standardized modules (rectifiers, inverters, control units) can be configured for multiple applications. This eliminates the need to design and maintain separate specialized systems for different power conversion needs (AC-DC, DC-AC, AC-AC), reducing overall device complexity and maintenance burden while maintaining application-specific performance through proper module selection and configuration.
Solution Approach 2:
The system merges multiple power conversion functions into a single modular platform, combining rectification, inversion, and control capabilities in interchangeable module types. This consolidation reduces the total number of separate systems needed across different applications, simplifying inventory management, maintenance procedures, and technical expertise requirements while preserving the ability to deliver application-optimized performance.
Data Source
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AI summary
A method and modular system for assembling a power system architecture includes a direct current (DC) output module having a first DC input and a DC output, a common power module having a DC input/output and an alternating current (AC) input/output, an AC output module having an AC input and a first AC output, and an exciter power module having a second DC input and a second AC output.