Multi-mode Energy Router Bi-directional AC DC Conversion
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Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional power conversion systems lack flexibility and efficiency when dealing with multi-source or multi-load, bidirectional AC/DC power flow applications, often requiring multiple conversion stages and resulting in reduced power efficiency and higher system costs.
Innovation Solution
A multi-mode energy router (MMER) with a single functional block of power electronics utilizing a triple half bridge architecture and a controller to selectively couple sources and loads, enabling bi-directional power conversion between AC and DC sources or loads, or combinations thereof, using a single conversion stage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of energy
If multiple separate conversion stages are used for bidirectional AC/DC power flow, then power conversion functionality is provided, but power efficiency is reduced and system cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple separate conversion stages into a single integrated power conversion stage that can handle bidirectional AC/DC power flow. The power conversion system includes a single conversion stage with switches that can selectively connect AC sources, DC sources, AC loads, and DC loads, eliminating the need for separate rectifier, converter, and inverter stages while improving power efficiency and reducing system cost.
Solution Approach 2:
The single conversion stage is designed with multi-functionality to perform various power conversion operations including AC to DC conversion, DC to AC conversion, AC to AC conversion, and DC to DC conversion. The controller selectively activates different switch configurations within the single stage to achieve different conversion modes, providing universal power conversion capability without requiring multiple dedicated stages.
2Adaptability or versatility
If fixed function hardware is used for power conversion, then specific power conversion operations are performed, but system flexibility is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic switchable connections within the power conversion system. Switches are controlled to dynamically reconfigure the circuit topology, allowing the single conversion stage to adapt between different power conversion modes (AC/DC, DC/AC, AC/AC, DC/DC) based on operational requirements. This dynamic reconfiguration provides system flexibility without requiring multiple fixed-function hardware components.
Solution Approach 2:
The controller acts as an intermediary that manages the switch configurations to achieve desired power conversion operations. By using the controller to selectively activate different switch states, the system can flexibly adapt to various source and load combinations without requiring dedicated fixed-function hardware for each conversion type.
Data Source
AI summary
In accordance with presently disclosed embodiments, a multi-mode energy router (MMER) is provided. The MMER includes a functional block of power electronics under processor control. In addition, the MMER includes a plurality of switches that can be controlled to route power from specific sources or loads to the input or output of the functional block. The MMER enables a single functional block of power electronics to selectively provide bi-directional power conversion between AC and DC components and between DC and DC components.