Multi-Winding Transformer Inverter for Grid Power Mismatch
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing power inverters face challenges in efficiently converting variable direct current (DC) power from alternative energy sources, such as photovoltaic cells, into alternating current (AC) power suitable for the grid, particularly in managing power mismatches and maintaining efficiency under varying environmental conditions.
Innovation Solution
The proposed solution involves a power converter system comprising a transformer with multiple windings, a DC-AC inverter, a cycloconverter, and an active filter, controlled by a processor-based controller. This system converts the input DC waveform to AC, with the cycloconverter adjusting the AC waveform to match grid frequency and the active filter managing power mismatches using energy storage devices, ensuring efficient power delivery to the AC grid.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Use of energy by moving object
If a single large inverter is used to convert DC power from solar cell panels, then the conversion efficiency can be maintained, but the system complexity and difficulty of managing power mismatches increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the power conversion system into multiple independent inverters, each associated with a subset of solar cell panels. Each inverter independently converts DC power to AC power, simplifying the control and management of each unit while collectively achieving efficient power conversion for the entire system.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a hierarchical control structure with both individual inverter control and centralized coordination. This multi-level control dimension allows each inverter to operate efficiently independently while the central controller coordinates power distribution and manages mismatches across the entire system.
2Loss of energy
If distributed inverters are placed close to solar cell panels to increase conversion efficiency, then power loss is reduced, but the complexity of managing multiple independent conversion units increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system is segmented into multiple distributed inverters placed near solar cell panel subsets. This segmentation reduces the distance for power transmission and minimizes power losses while each inverter operates as an independent conversion unit with simplified control.
Solution Approach 2:
Each distributed inverter incorporates feedback mechanisms to monitor its own operation and adjust accordingly. Centralized controllers also receive feedback from multiple inverters to coordinate power distribution, creating a feedback loop that manages complexity while maintaining efficiency.
3Device complexity
If the inverter system operates without active power management, then the device complexity is reduced, but the ability to handle power mismatches between DC source and AC grid deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The inverter system incorporates self-service power management where each inverter autonomously monitors its own DC input and AC output conditions. The system automatically adjusts operation to handle power mismatches between the DC source and AC grid without requiring complex external control intervention.
Solution Approach 2:
The inverter design integrates multiple functions including power conversion, power factor correction, harmonic filtering, and active power management into a single unified device. This multi-functionality allows the system to handle various operating conditions and power mismatch scenarios without requiring separate dedicated systems.
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
The system effectively addresses the variability in DC power sources by ensuring stable and efficient AC power delivery to the grid, enhancing conversion efficiency and power quality by dynamically managing power mismatches and environmental variations.
Implementation Method 1
a transformer that includes a first winding, a second winding, and a third winding
Implementation Method 2
The active filter is adapted to sink and source power with one or more energy storage devices based on a mismatch in power between the DC source and the AC grid
Data Source
AI summary
An inverter includes a transformer that includes a first winding, a second winding, and a third winding, a DC-AC inverter electrically coupled to the first winding of the transformer, a cycloconverter electrically coupled to the second winding of the transformer, an active filter electrically coupled to the third winding of the transformer. The DC-AC inverter is adapted to convert the input DC waveform to an AC waveform delivered to the transformer at the first winding. The cycloconverter is adapted to convert an AC waveform received at the second winding of the transformer to the output AC waveform having a grid frequency of the AC grid. The active filter is adapted to sink and source power with one or more energy storage devices based on a mismatch in power between the DC source and the AC grid.