Power Converter Modules for Distributed Source Isolation
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Solution Overview
Problem
The challenge lies in efficiently coupling and managing a variety of small, distributed power sources with different voltage, frequency, and capacity characteristics, which is complex due to the lack of uniformity, leading to high costs and difficulties in interconnection, especially in emergency situations like natural disasters where quick power restoration is needed.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of an Input Power Control (IPC) module that includes a DC bus and primary converter modules to convert power from diverse sources into a standardized DC voltage, with secondary converter modules for AC power transfer, enabling isolation and reliable connection of multiple power sources to an AC system, allowing for flexible adaptation to various power sources without prior knowledge of their characteristics.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If distributed generators with different voltage, frequency, and capacity characteristics are electrically connected at a common location, then power can be supplied from diverse sources, but the interconnection equipment becomes very expensive and difficult to install
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a common coupling circuit as an intermediary component that all distributed generators connect to. This coupling circuit serves as a mediator that handles the complexity of matching different voltage, frequency, and capacity characteristics, while the generators themselves remain simple and standardized. The coupling circuit includes control logic that adapts to each generator's characteristics without requiring custom interconnection equipment for each generator type.
2Adaptability or versatility
If distributed generators are electrically connected at a common location, then power supply diversity is achieved, but a fault or failure in one generator may cause voltage collapse affecting other generators
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the electrical connection by introducing a common coupling circuit that electrically isolates each distributed generator from the others. Each generator connects to the coupling circuit independently, creating separate electrical pathways. This segmentation ensures that a fault in one generator does not propagate to other generators, as the coupling circuit acts as an electrical barrier while still allowing power aggregation.
3Manufacturing precision
If custom interconnection equipment is designed for each type of power source, then precise matching of voltage and frequency is achieved, but the equipment is very expensive and difficult to install
Solution Approach 1:
The patent designs the common coupling circuit to be a universal interface that can accommodate multiple types of distributed generators with different voltage, frequency, and capacity characteristics. The coupling circuit incorporates control logic that automatically adapts to each generator's characteristics, eliminating the need for custom-designed interconnection equipment for each generator type. This universal approach maintains precise voltage and frequency matching while significantly reducing manufacturing complexity and cost.
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
This solution facilitates efficient and rapid electrical coupling of distributed generators, enhances reliability by isolating faulty components, and maintains voltage stability, enabling quick power restoration even in emergency situations without the need for custom interconnection equipment for each type of power source.
Implementation Method 1
primary converter modules to convert power from diverse sources into a standardized DC voltage
Data Source
AI summary
A system and method for isolating sources and loads of a power system are disclosed. Briefly described, one embodiment includes at least a DC bus operable at a DC bus voltage; a non-isolated first primary converter module electrically coupled to the DC bus and operable to receive a first amount of power from a first power source, and operable to convert the received power from the first power source into a first amount of DC power at the DC bus voltage; and an isolated second primary converter module electrically coupled to the DC bus and operable to receive a second amount of power from a second power source, and operable to convert the received power from the second power source into a second amount of DC power at the DC bus voltage, wherein the second power source is electrically isolated from the DC bus by the isolated second primary converter module.