Power Supply Grid Terminal with AC-DC Switching
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing power supply grid systems face inefficiencies in transmitting increasing amounts of energy over existing infrastructure, particularly in seamlessly switching between AC and DC power transmission modes.
Innovation Solution
A power supply grid system with terminals equipped with a switch unit and a converter unit that can perform AC-DC or DC-AC conversions, allowing for multi-mode transmission using existing AC or DC transmission lines, enabling seamless switching between AC, DC, and combined AC-DC power transmission modes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of energy
If existing AC or DC transmission lines are used for power transmission, then the infrastructure can be utilized, but the energy transmission capacity and efficiency are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The terminal is designed with dynamic switching capability that allows it to change between AC transmission mode, DC transmission mode, and combined AC-DC transmission mode based on grid requirements. The switch unit and converter unit enable the terminal to adapt its transmission mode dynamically, transforming a static transmission line into a dynamic system that can optimize energy transmission efficiency while maintaining infrastructure utilization.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention changes the operational parameters of the transmission line by introducing a terminal that can operate in multiple modes (AC, DC, or combined). The converter unit transforms the electrical parameters, allowing the same transmission line to carry different types of power with optimized characteristics for each mode, thereby improving energy transmission efficiency without requiring new infrastructure.
2Productivity
If AC power transmission is used, then the existing AC infrastructure can be utilized, but the ability to transmit increasing amounts of energy efficiently is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The terminal is segmented into distinct functional units: a switch unit with switching elements and a converter unit with conversion elements. This segmentation allows each unit to perform its specific function independently, managing the complexity by dividing the overall system into manageable components while enabling the terminal to achieve higher energy transmission capacity through coordinated operation of these segments.
Solution Approach 2:
The terminal is designed as a universal device that can handle multiple power transmission modes (AC and DC) using the same physical infrastructure. The switch unit and converter unit work together to provide multi-functionality, allowing a single terminal structure to serve multiple purposes and increase energy transmission capacity without requiring separate infrastructure for each mode.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the power transmission mode is fixed, then the system is simpler to operate, but seamless change in power transmission mode is not possible
Solution Approach 1:
The terminal is equipped with control logic that enables it to automatically select and switch between AC transmission mode, DC transmission mode, and combined AC-DC transmission mode based on grid conditions and requirements. This self-service capability allows the terminal to adapt to changing conditions without requiring complex manual intervention, maintaining ease of operation while providing high adaptability.
Solution Approach 2:
The switch unit and converter unit are designed to enable dynamic mode switching, allowing the terminal to transition seamlessly between different power transmission modes. This dynamic design maintains operational simplicity by automating the switching process while providing the adaptability needed to respond to varying grid requirements.
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
Enhances energy transmission capacity and efficiency by allowing seamless mode switching, optimizing the use of existing infrastructure and improving overall grid performance.
Implementation Method 1
a converter unit (120) which is able to perform a AC-DC conversion or a DC-AC conversion
Data Source
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AI summary
A power supply grid system (1) is provided which comprises at least one first transmission line (200) having a first and second end (201, 202). The grid system furthermore comprises at least one terminal (100) each having a first port, wherein the first port is coupled to the first or second end (201, 202) of the at least one first transmission line (200). The at least one terminal (100) comprises an AC interface (11a) adapted to couple the terminal (100) to an AC grid (10a) or an AC bus bar (11), a DC interface (21a) adapted to couple the terminal (100) to a DC grid (10b) or a DC bus bar (21) and at least one switch unit (110) coupled to the at least one first transmission line (200). The switch unit (110) comprises a control input (110a) adapted to receive control inputs. The switch unit (110) is adapted to couple based on the control input commands received via the control input (110a) the AC interface (11a) and/or the DC interface (21a) to the at least one first transmission line (200) such that DC power is transmitted, AC is transmitted or a combination of DC and AD power is transmitted over the at least one transmission line (200).