Single-Phase Power Conditioner Control for Renewable Energy Systems
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing power transfer systems in renewable energy systems experience significant surge currents and voltages, along with prolonged transfer times, when switching between utility and renewable energy sources, leading to inefficiencies and voltage distortions.
Innovation Solution
A control device for a single-phase power conditioner that includes a power system, a renewable energy system, a DC-to-DC converter, a grid-tied power conditioner with DC-to-AC and AC-to-DC converters, and a controller, utilizing pulse width modulation (PWM) and bi-directional power regulation to manage power flow and voltage synchronization, minimizing transfer time and surge occurrences.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a transfer switch or magnetic contactor is used for power transfer between utility system and renewable energy system, then power transfer can be achieved, but transfer time becomes considerable and surge current/voltage occurs
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a power conditioner as an intermediary device between the utility system and renewable energy system. This power conditioner includes a DC-to-AC inverter and AC-to-DC converter that act as a buffer, enabling seamless power transfer without the surge issues and time delays associated with traditional transfer switches or magnetic contactors. The power conditioner mediates the power flow, converting and regulating voltage levels to ensure continuous power supply to the load.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the operating parameters of the power transfer system by using controllable switches (such as IGBTs or MOSFETs) instead of traditional transfer switches or magnetic contactors. These controllable switches allow for precise control of the switching timing and duration, enabling the transfer process to be completed in a fraction of the time required by conventional devices, thereby eliminating the considerable transfer time and surge issues.
2Reliability
If traditional power transfer methods are used, then power transfer can be achieved, but surge current and voltage occur during switching
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies beforehand cushioning by using the power conditioner to pre-regulate and buffer the power flow before transfer. The DC-to-AC inverter and AC-to-DC converter are designed to handle transient conditions, providing a cushioning effect that absorbs surge currents and voltages during the switching process. This protective mechanism prevents harmful surges from reaching the load while maintaining reliable power transfer.
Solution Approach 2:
The power conditioner serves as an intermediary that isolates the load from the harmful effects of direct switching between utility and renewable energy sources. By converting power through controlled electronic switches and regulating voltage levels, the power conditioner mediates the transfer process to eliminate surge currents and voltages that would otherwise occur with traditional transfer switches or magnetic contactors.
3Reliability
If more elements and interfaces are added to the power system, then power transfer capability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies universality by designing the power conditioner to perform multiple functions within a single integrated device. The power conditioner simultaneously acts as a DC-to-AC inverter, AC-to-DC converter, and power transfer switch, eliminating the need for separate transfer switches, contactors, and other discrete components. This multi-functional approach maintains reliable power transfer capability while reducing overall system complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges multiple power transfer functions into a single power conditioner unit. Instead of having separate transfer switches, magnetic contactors, and protection devices, the patent combines these functions into an integrated power conditioner with controllable switches and voltage regulation capabilities. This consolidation reduces the number of elements and interfaces while maintaining or improving power transfer reliability.
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 solution enables seamless and efficient power transfer with negligible transfer time, maintaining a stable output voltage waveform, thereby enhancing the efficiency and reliability of the power conditioner.
Implementation Method 1
a DC-to-DC converter, accepting the DC power generated by the renewable energy system so as to convert an input DC voltage of the DC power to an output DC voltage at a voltage level different from the DC input voltage
Implementation Method 2
a grid-tied power conditioner comprising a DC-to-AC inverter and an AC-to-DC converter so as to transform voltage levels of the AC power and DC power
Implementation Method 3
utilizing pulse width modulation (PWM) and bi-directional power regulation to manage power flow and voltage synchronization, minimizing transfer time and surge occurrences
Data Source
AI summary
A device for controlling a single-phase power conditioner for a renewable energy system is disclosed. The device comprises: a power system, providing alternating current (AC) utility power; a renewable energy system, using a natural resource so as to generate direct current (DC) power; a DC-to-DC converter, accepting the DC power generated by the renewable energy system so as to convert an input DC voltage of the DC power to an output DC voltage at a voltage level different from the DC input voltage; a grid-tied power conditioner, transforming voltage levels of the AC power and DC power; a controller, issuing a control signal for controlling the grid-tied power conditioner; and a load, consuming electricity by way of the grid-tied power conditioner.