Power Flow Control Device for DC Mesh Network Current Distribution

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing mesh networks face challenges in efficiently distributing current without exceeding link capacity, leading to congestion and inefficiencies, particularly in direct current networks, where previous solutions are complex, costly, and not easily adaptable.

Innovation Solution

A power flow control device with a series-connected voltage source, current source, and switching means, utilizing capacitors and inductors to manage current distribution across multiple links, allowing for flexible operation in DC and AC networks, and enabling adaptable control to minimize losses and balance currents.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Productivity

If voltage sources are inserted in series with links to control current distribution, then current distribution is improved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecurrent distribution efficiencyVSAvoiddevice complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines multiple voltage sources and control functions into a single integrated device connected to one link. Instead of inserting separate voltage sources in each link, the invention merges the control functionality into one unified apparatus that can regulate current distribution across multiple links through a single connection point, thereby reducing overall device complexity while maintaining current distribution efficiency.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The control device is designed with multi-functionality, serving as both a power converter and a current distribution controller. By making the device universal, it can perform multiple functions (voltage conversion, current regulation, and distribution control) through a single apparatus, reducing the need for separate components and simplifying the overall system architecture.

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

2Manufacturing precision

If multiple voltage sources are used to regulate current, then current control precision is improved, but manufacturing cost increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecurrent control precisionVSAvoidmanufacturing cost
Core Design Contradiction:
Manufacturing precisionVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The patent merges multiple voltage source functions into a single integrated power converter unit. Instead of requiring separate voltage sources for each link, the invention combines their functionality into one device that can generate and distribute multiple voltage levels internally, thereby reducing manufacturing costs while maintaining precise current control through integrated control circuitry.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The control device dynamically adjusts voltage and current parameters through electronic control mechanisms. By using parameter changes rather than fixed multiple voltage sources, the system achieves precise current control through software-controlled regulation, reducing hardware complexity and manufacturing costs while maintaining high precision.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

3Stability of the object's composition

If converter stations impose fixed voltages, then voltage stability is improved, but current distribution flexibility deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvevoltage stabilityVSAvoidcurrent distribution flexibility
Core Design Contradiction:
Stability of the object's compositionVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements feedback control mechanisms that continuously monitor current distribution and adjust voltage outputs accordingly. The control device receives feedback information about the state of each link and dynamically adjusts its voltage output to maintain both voltage stability and flexible current distribution, allowing the system to adapt to changing network conditions while preserving stable voltage levels.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

Solution Approach 2:

The invention introduces dynamic control capabilities to the previously static voltage imposition system. The control device can dynamically adjust voltage levels and current distribution in real-time based on network conditions, transforming the fixed voltage system into a dynamic one that maintains voltage stability while providing flexible current distribution adaptability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

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 enhances transport capacity, prevents link congestion, simplifies architecture, reduces costs, and facilitates easy installation and control, while maintaining efficient energy transfer and minimizing losses in mesh networks.

Implementation Method 1

a first capacitor, a second capacitor

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectCapacitance: Capacitance

Implementation Method 2

a current source comprising at least an inductance

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElectromagnetic Induction: Electromagnetic Induction

Data Source

PatentUS11121549B2Power flow control device for controlling the distribution of currents in a mesh network
Publication Date: 2021.09.14 SUPERGRID INSTITUTE SAS
  • US11121549B2 patent drawing
  • US11121549B2 patent drawing
  • US11121549B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A power flow control device intended to be used in a mesh network. The device includes a first voltage source connected between a first terminal (B1) and a third terminal (B3). A second voltage source is connected between a second terminal (B2) and the third terminal (B3). A current source is connected alternately to the first voltage source and the second voltage source and configured to ensure a transfer of energy between the first voltage source and the second voltage source. A switching means is arranged to allow the current source to be connected alternately in parallel with the first voltage source or in parallel with the second current source.