Modular Switching Cell Busbar Layout for MMC Topology Flexibility
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Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional Modular Multilevel Converter (MMC) cell designs are highly optimized for specific current ratings, leading to high costs and reduced power density when adapting for different current ratings or topologies, as they require separate component designs and engineering efforts for half-rated cells or full-bridge configurations.
Innovation Solution
A modular switching cell design featuring a base module with interchangeable busbar sets to form various circuit configurations, such as parallel or serial half-bridge and full-bridge circuits, allowing for flexible use across different current ratings and topologies while sharing a common mechanical design, thus reducing costs and increasing power density.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If traditional MMC cell designs are used with different current ratings, then each current rating requires a separate cell design, but this increases device complexity and manufacturing costs
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a universal base module design that can be configured for different current ratings through interchangeable busbar sets. The same mechanical chassis and component layout are used across all current ratings, with only the busbar configuration varying. This allows a single cell design to serve multiple current rating applications, eliminating the need for separate designs for each rating.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent segments the cell design into a standardized base module and interchangeable busbar sets. The base module contains all common components (switching units, capacitors, chassis) that remain identical across different current ratings, while the busbar sets are segmented as separate interchangeable components that define the specific current rating configuration.
2Adaptability or versatility
If traditional MMC cell designs are used with different current ratings, then separate component designs are required, but this increases manufacturing costs
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a universal base module design that can be configured for different current ratings through interchangeable busbar sets. The same mechanical chassis and component layout are used across all current ratings, with only the busbar configuration varying. This allows a single cell design to serve multiple current rating applications, eliminating the need for separate designs for each rating.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent enables recovery and reuse of the base module across different current rating applications. When a converter requires a different current rating, only the busbar sets need to be changed while the base module is retained and reused, reducing manufacturing waste and costs.
3Adaptability or versatility
If traditional MMC cell designs are used for low-current converter designs, then cell current rating is underutilized, but this increases cost per kW
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a universal base module design that can be configured for different current ratings through interchangeable busbar sets. The same mechanical chassis and component layout are used across all current ratings, with only the busbar configuration varying. This allows a single cell design to serve multiple current rating applications, eliminating the need for separate designs for each rating.
4Adaptability or versatility
If traditional MMC cell designs are used for different topologies, then separate cell designs are required, but this increases device complexity
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a universal base module design that can be configured for different topologies (half-bridge, full-bridge, series, parallel) through interchangeable busbar sets. The same mechanical chassis and component layout are used across all topologies, with only the busbar configuration varying to achieve the desired circuit topology.
Data Source
AI summary
A modular switching cell of a high voltage direct current power converter has a modular switching cell that includes a base module, which has: a first switching unit; a second switching unit; a first capacitor; and a second capacitor. The first switching unit, the second switching unit, the first capacitor, and the second capacitor are mounted on a chassis. The base module is configured to receive at least three different busbar sets, each of the busbar sets having a plurality of busbars for interconnecting the first switching unit, the second switching unit, the first capacitor, and the second capacitor to form one of: two parallel half bridge circuits between a first cell terminal and a second cell terminal; two serial half bridge circuits between the first cell terminal and the second cell terminal; or a full bridge circuit between the first cell terminal and the second cell terminal.