Bidirectional multiple-port power conversion system and method

Resolve Bottlenecks,
Find Innovative Solutions
Generate Solutions

Solution Overview

Problem

Existing power conversion systems for electric vehicles face challenges in efficiently managing power transfer between a single-phase AC power source and multiple batteries with varying capacities and voltages, requiring advanced power factor correction and efficient DC/DC conversion while meeting EMI regulations.

Innovation Solution

A bidirectional multiple-port power conversion system with three power conversion ports, utilizing a three-level neutral point clamped power factor correction converter and a three-level LLC converter, along with rectifiers and power regulators, magnetically coupled through transformers to achieve efficient power transfer and regulation across multiple batteries.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If a conventional AC/DC stage with EMI filters and bridge rectifier is used, then EMI regulations are met and AC to DC conversion is achieved, but the system complexity increases and power loss increases

Engineering Contradiction:
ImproveEMI regulation complianceVSAvoidsystem complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines the AC/DC conversion stage and DC/DC conversion stage into a single integrated power conversion system with a unified control mechanism. The system uses a single set of switching devices and control circuitry to perform both AC to DC conversion and DC to DC conversion, eliminating the need for separate EMI filters and rectifier circuits while maintaining compliance with EMI regulations.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The power conversion system is designed to perform multiple functions using the same hardware components. The switching devices and control circuitry can operate in different modes to achieve AC to DC conversion, DC to DC conversion, and power factor correction, reducing overall system complexity while meeting EMI requirements through integrated design.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Adaptability or versatility

If separate AC/DC stage and DC/DC stage are used, then power conversion functionality is achieved, but the device complexity and power loss increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvepower conversion functionalityVSAvoidpower loss
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSLoss of energy

Solution Approach 1:

The patent merges the AC/DC conversion and DC/DC conversion into a single integrated power conversion stage. This unified approach reduces the number of power conversion interfaces and associated losses, while maintaining the ability to perform both conversion functions through coordinated control of the switching devices.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The integrated power conversion system maintains continuous power transfer from the AC source to the DC loads without interruption at intermediate stages. By eliminating separate conversion stages and their associated idle losses, the system achieves more efficient continuous power conversion while preserving full functionality through mode-switching control.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #20Continuity of useful action

3Adaptability or versatility

If multiple separate power conversion stages are used, then comprehensive power management is achieved, but the device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvepower management capabilityVSAvoiddevice complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The power conversion system is designed as a universal platform that can perform multiple power management functions including AC to DC conversion, DC to DC conversion, power factor correction, and battery charging/discharging control. A single set of switching devices and control circuitry handles all these functions by switching between different operational modes, eliminating the need for multiple separate conversion stages and reducing overall device complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

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 achieves high-efficiency bidirectional power conversion, enabling efficient charging and power management between an AC power source and multiple batteries, with the ability to regulate voltages and operate in various modes to suit different system conditions.

Implementation Method 1

the first power conversion port, the second power conversion port, and the third power conversion port magnetically coupled to each other through a transformer

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectMagnetic coupling: Electromagnetic Induction

Data Source

PatentUS11831236B2Bidirectional multiple-port power conversion system and method
Publication Date: 2023.11.28 HUAWEI DIGITAL POWER TECH CO LTD
  • US11831236B2 patent drawing
  • US11831236B2 patent drawing
  • US11831236B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A bidirectional power conversion system includes three power conversion ports. A first power conversion port includes a power factor correction device and a primary power conversion network. A second power conversion port includes a plurality of switches and a plurality of diodes, wherein an output voltage of the second power conversion port is regulated through adjusting an output voltage of the power factor correction device as well as through adjusting an operating parameter of the primary power conversion network. A third power conversion port includes a first switch network and a power regulator connected in cascade, wherein the first power conversion port, the second power conversion port and the third power conversion port are magnetically coupled to each other through a transformer.