Multi-cell Power Converter Dynamic Cell Activation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing power conversion methods face challenges in efficiently managing power conversion processes, particularly in minimizing losses and optimizing the operation of power converter cells based on changing voltage levels and power reference signals.
Innovation Solution
A power converter circuit with multiple converter cells, where a controller selectively operates cells in active or inactive modes based on the level of a power reference signal or periodic voltage changes, allowing the number of active cells to adjust dynamically within a voltage period.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of energy
If all converter cells are operated continuously, then power conversion capacity is maintained, but energy losses increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic operation of converter cells by selectively switching cells between active and inactive modes based on real-time power reference signal levels. The controller adjusts the number of active cells dynamically, allowing the system to adapt its power conversion capacity to match actual load requirements, thereby reducing energy losses when full capacity is not needed while maintaining sufficient productivity when required.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes operational parameters by adjusting the number of active converter cells based on the power reference signal level. When the power reference signal indicates lower power requirements, the system reduces the number of active cells, effectively changing the operational state from full-capacity mode to reduced-capacity mode, thus optimizing the balance between energy losses and power conversion capacity.
2Loss of energy
If the number of active converter cells is reduced, then energy losses are minimized, but power conversion capacity decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The controller uses feedback from the power reference signal to dynamically adjust the number of active converter cells. The power reference signal provides real-time information about power requirements, and the controller responds by activating or deactivating appropriate numbers of converter cells, ensuring that power conversion capacity matches actual needs while minimizing energy losses during low-demand periods.
3Productivity
If converter cells are selectively activated based on power reference signal levels, then operational efficiency is improved, but control complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The control system is segmented into a controller that manages the activation and deactivation of individual converter cells based on power reference signal levels. This segmentation allows for simplified control logic where the controller independently manages each cell's operational state, improving operational efficiency through selective activation while keeping the control complexity manageable through modular decision-making for each cell.
Data Source
AI summary
A method includes converting power by a power converter comprising a plurality of converter cells, and selectively operating at least one converter cell of the plurality of converter cells in one of an active and an inactive mode based on a level of a power reference signal.