Parallel Power Converter Connection Device with Automatic Breakers

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Solution Overview

Problem

The existing connection methods for single-unit power converters in parallel configurations are time-consuming and labor-intensive, requiring significant installation and wiring efforts.

Innovation Solution

A connection apparatus comprising a lead-in board and frames with alternating-current output connecting means, cables, and opening/closing means to facilitate easy connection and operation of single-unit power converters, allowing them to be connected in parallel and managed efficiently.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Power

If single-unit power converters are connected in parallel using conventional connection methods, then large-capacity power converter systems can be constructed, but the installation and wiring process requires lots of time and labor

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvepower converter capacityVSAvoidinstallation time
Core Design Contradiction:
PowerVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The connection apparatus is divided into modular components including a lead-in board with opening/closing means and separate connecting means for each power converting unit. This segmentation allows independent connection and disconnection of individual units without affecting the entire system, significantly reducing installation and maintenance time while enabling parallel connection of multiple units to achieve large capacity

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The lead-in board is pre-configured with opening/closing means that can automatically connect or disconnect power lines when cover is opened or closed. This preliminary arrangement of connection mechanisms eliminates the need for time-consuming manual wiring during installation and allows rapid system assembly by simply mounting the power converting units

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

2Adaptability or versatility

If conventional connection methods are used for parallel power converters, then systems can be assembled, but the wiring process is labor-intensive and complex

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveparallel connection capabilityVSAvoidwiring complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The connection apparatus merges the lead-in board with integrated opening/closing means and the connecting means of power converting units into a unified connection system. This integration allows simultaneous connection of multiple power converting units through a single automated action (opening/closing the cover), eliminating complex manual wiring operations while maintaining parallel connection capability

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The opening/closing means on the lead-in board automatically performs the connection and disconnection functions when the cover is opened or closed. This self-service mechanism eliminates the need for manual wiring operations, reducing labor intensity and simplifying the installation process while enabling versatile parallel connections of multiple units

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Data Source

PatentEP2571120B1Connection device for electric power converters
Publication Date: 2019.04.24 TOSHIBA MITSUBISHI ELECTRIC IND SYST CORP
  • EP2571120B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP2571120B1 patent drawingFigure 2
  • EP2571120B1 patent drawingFigure 3

AI summary

A power converter apparatus (20) is provided with a lead-in board (1) in which alternating-current power received from power converting units (3A to 3D) is connected in parallel, and a connection base (2) including frames (UA to UD) for installing the power converting units (3A to 3D) therein. The frames (UA to UD) are provided with connection sections (21A to 21D) for connecting the main circuits of the power converting units (3A to 3D). The lead-in board (1) is provided with breakers (13A to 13D) for cut off alternating-current power from the power converting units (3A to 3D).