Multi-Source Power Converter Architecture for Vehicle Grid Interface
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Solution Overview
Problem
Modern electric power supply systems face challenges in efficiently collecting and utilizing power from multiple distinct sources, such as DC and AC power sources, to provide intelligent power distribution to vehicle loads.
Innovation Solution
The system employs converters to convert power from multiple sources to a common source, which is then communicated to a collector bus, and further converted into three-phase power for efficient distribution to components requiring AC power, utilizing energy management controllers and various converter types to achieve this.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple distinct power sources are integrated into the system, then the versatility and adaptability of the power supply system is improved, but the device complexity increases due to the need for multiple converters and control mechanisms
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a universal power collection architecture where multiple converters (DC-DC, AC-DC, DC-AC, AC-AC) are integrated into a single collector bus system. This multi-functional design allows the same collector bus infrastructure to handle various power source types (DC power sources, AC power sources) and distribute power to different loads, achieving versatility without proportionally increasing complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The collector bus serves as an intermediary component that mediates between multiple distinct power sources and various power consumers. By introducing this intermediate power collection and distribution layer, the system simplifies the integration of diverse power sources (DC/AC, different voltages) and provides a unified interface for power distribution, thereby improving adaptability while managing complexity.
2Ease of operation
If power from multiple sources is collected and converted to a common source, then the ease of operation and power distribution control is improved, but the energy loss increases due to multiple conversion steps
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs converters that can dynamically adjust electrical parameters (voltage, current, frequency) to match the requirements of different power sources and loads. By changing parameters adaptively rather than using fixed conversion ratios, the system optimizes conversion efficiency and reduces energy losses while maintaining ease of operation for power distribution control.
Solution Approach 2:
The power management system dynamically selects and activates specific conversion paths based on real-time conditions. For example, when both DC and AC power sources are available, the system can dynamically choose which source to use and which converter path to activate, optimizing energy efficiency while maintaining operational simplicity through centralized control.
3Productivity
If three-phase power conversion is implemented for AC components, then the productivity and power delivery capability is improved, but the device complexity increases due to additional converter requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple conversion functions into integrated converter units. The DC-AC converter, for instance, can simultaneously generate three-phase power output, merging what would otherwise require separate converters for each phase into a single unified device. This reduces the overall number of components while maintaining high power delivery capability for AC loads.
Solution Approach 2:
The converter system is designed with multi-functionality to handle various power conversion tasks through a unified architecture. A single DC-AC converter can provide three-phase power, and the same collector bus infrastructure supports both single-phase and three-phase distribution, achieving high productivity without proportionally increasing device complexity.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This approach enables efficient use of diverse power sources, providing stable and controlled three-phase power to vehicle components, enhancing the overall power management and distribution efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
Converters convert power supplied by the plurality of power sources to a common source of power to be communicated to a collector bus
Implementation Method 2
Converters provide three phases of power to the power bus from the collector bus
Data Source
AI summary
An electric power generating system includes a plurality of variable power sources including at least one source of DC power and at least one source of AC power. Converters convert power supplied by the plurality of power sources to a common source of power to be communicated to a collector bus. A power grid supplies three-phase power to components requiring three-phase power downstream of the collector bus. Converters provide three phases of power to the power bus from the collector bus.