Modular Multilevel Converter Reactor Layout for Lower Product Volume
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Solution Overview
Problem
As the number of sub-modules in modular multi-level converters increases, the capacity of the arm reactor also increases, leading to a larger physical size and volume of the product.
Innovation Solution
The arrangement of individual reactors between or within sub-modules, allowing for a distribution of reactor capacity that does not require a separate space for installation, thereby reducing the overall product volume.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Power
If the number of sub-modules increases to improve converter capacity, then the converter power handling capability is improved, but the arm reactor capacity and physical size increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the single arm reactor into multiple individual reactors, with each individual reactor connected in series between sub-modules. This segmentation allows the total reactor capacity to be distributed across multiple smaller components rather than requiring one large reactor, thereby maintaining the necessary inductance for higher converter capacity while reducing the physical volume of each reactor component.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from a single-dimensional reactor arrangement (one large arm reactor) to a multi-dimensional configuration by distributing individual reactors across different spatial locations between sub-modules. This dimensional redistribution allows the system to achieve the required total inductance through spatial distribution rather than concentrating all inductance in one location, effectively reducing the volume footprint.
2Power
If a large-capacity arm reactor is installed to handle increased sub-module capacity, then the power handling capability is improved, but the product volume increases
Solution Approach 1:
The large-capacity arm reactor is segmented into multiple smaller individual reactors distributed throughout the converter structure. Each individual reactor has reduced capacity compared to the original single large reactor, but their series combination maintains the total inductance required for power handling. This segmentation enables the system to achieve high power handling capability without requiring a single large-volume reactor component.
Solution Approach 2:
Multiple individual reactors are merged in series connection between sub-modules to collectively provide the equivalent inductance of a single large arm reactor. This merging of multiple smaller components achieves the same electrical function while allowing for more efficient space utilization and reduced overall product volume compared to a single large reactor.
3Volume of stationary object
If individual reactors are distributed between sub-modules, then space utilization is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The individual reactors serve multiple functions: they provide the necessary inductance for current limiting, protect sub-modules from short circuits, and enable compact spatial arrangement. By making each reactor component multi-functional, the system achieves improved space utilization without proportionally increasing complexity, as the same components fulfill multiple protective and functional roles.
Solution Approach 2:
The individual reactors are nested within the existing converter structure by positioning them between sub-modules in the series chain. This nesting approach integrates the reactors into the existing architectural framework rather than adding separate external components, thereby improving space utilization while minimizing the increase in overall device complexity.
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure relates to a modular multi-level converter, wherein a cluster comprises multiple sub-modules connected to each other in series and multiple individual reactors connected to the respective sub-modules in series, and the multiple individual reactors are disposed between the multiple sub-modules, respectively. Therefore, the converter of the present invention is advantageous in that the volume thereof can be further reduced compared with when a conventional large-capacity reactor is used.