Network Map Determination for Modular Converter Misconfiguration
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Solution Overview
Problem
In modular multilevel converters, the complexity of controlling a large number of converter cells can lead to misconfiguration risks during installation or maintenance due to potential incorrect signal connections between master and slave nodes.
Innovation Solution
A method for determining a network map by generating and transmitting probing messages with routing tables and pointers to verify connectivity between master and slave nodes, updating the map based on successful routing, and repeating until all nodes and ports are covered, allowing for identification of broken links and discrepancies.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Power
If the number of converter cells is increased to handle large power conversion, then the power transmission capability is improved, but the risk of misconfiguration and connection errors increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary actions by automatically determining and verifying the network topology before operation begins. The master node proactively sends probing messages to map the network structure, identifying all slave nodes and their connections in advance, so that any misconfigurations are detected before they can cause operational problems.
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements feedback by having slave nodes return probing messages to confirm their presence and connectivity. This closed-loop verification provides feedback on the actual network topology, allowing the master node to compare expected vs. actual connections and identify any misconfigurations or broken links.
2Ease of manufacture
If manual configuration of converter cells is performed during installation, then the system can be deployed, but the risk of incorrect signal connections increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system applies self-service by enabling automatic network topology discovery without requiring manual configuration verification. The master node automatically sends probing messages and processes responses to build the network map, eliminating the need for manual checking of connections and reducing human error in the installation process.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces manual mechanical verification of connections with an automated electronic probing system. Instead of physically tracing and verifying signal connections between master and slave nodes, the system uses electronic probing messages to automatically map the network topology, substituting manual mechanical inspection with automated electronic detection.
3Productivity
If the network structure is not verified, then the system can operate immediately, but undetected misconfigurations can cause operational failures
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary topology verification through automated probing before allowing normal operation to begin. This preliminary action quickly maps the network structure and identifies any misconfigurations, ensuring reliability is established before productivity concerns arise.
Solution Approach 2:
The topology determination process uses skipping by sending probing messages through the network in a systematic but efficient manner. The master node sends probes to multiple slave nodes in sequence, quickly traversing the network to build the topology map without requiring time-consuming manual verification of each connection.
Data Source
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AI summary
It is provided a method for determining a network map defining a structure of a network (19). The method comprises the steps of: generating (40) a probing message (20) comprising a forward routing table (21) and a backward routing table (22) comprising routing entries and a routing pointer, wherein each routing entry defines an outward port for a slave node (6a-z); transmitting (42) the probing message (20) from a master node (10) to a slave node; determining (44) whether the probing message (20) was successfully routed according to both the forward routing table and the backward routing table, and updating the network map based on whether the probing message (20) was successfully routed; and repeating (46) the steps of generating (40) the probing message, transmitting (42) the probing message, and determining (44) whether the probing message was successfully routed, to further update the network map.