Two-Stage Power Module Switching for Fault-Tolerant Operation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional fault-tolerant control methods for solid-state transformers, such as bypassing faulty power modules or adding redundant components, are insufficient in maintaining system reliability and efficiency, leading to increased downtime and costs.
Innovation Solution
A coordinated fault-tolerant control method for two-stage power modules, where switches in the rear-stage circuit are operated to maintain normal functionality without redundant components, and the DC midpoint is balanced to ensure stable DC bus voltage, even in the event of switch failures.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If redundant components are added to achieve fault-tolerant operation, then system reliability is improved, but circuit complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic switching of switch sets based on fault detection. When a switch fails, the system dynamically reconfigures by disabling the faulty switch and its associated switch set, while activating alternative switch sets. This dynamic adaptation allows the system to maintain functionality without requiring permanent redundant components, thereby improving reliability while avoiding increased circuit complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the operational parameters of the power module by switching between different switch sets and adjusting the working modes of circuit branches. When a switch fails, the system changes parameters such as which switch sets are active, how circuit branches are connected, and the operating state of various components. This parameter-based adaptation enables fault tolerance without adding physical redundant components
2Reliability
If the whole power module is bypassed when one switch fails, then fault isolation is achieved, but system power capacity is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the power module into multiple independent switch sets (first and second switch sets with first and second switches each) that can be independently controlled. Instead of bypassing the entire module when one switch fails, the system isolates only the faulty switch and its associated switch set, while keeping other switch sets operational. This segmented approach maintains fault isolation capability while preserving system power capacity through partial operation
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies partial action by disabling only the necessary components (one switch and its associated switch set) rather than the entire power module. The system performs just enough fault isolation to protect against the failure while maintaining operation of remaining healthy components, thereby achieving fault isolation without excessive loss of power capacity
3Reliability
If redundant components are arranged for fault tolerance, then system availability is improved, but manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes the existing switch sets multi-functional by enabling them to serve both normal operation and fault tolerance functions. The first and second switch sets can operate under normal conditions, and the same switch sets can be reconfigured to provide fault tolerance when needed. This universality eliminates the need for separate redundant components, improving system availability while reducing manufacturing cost
Data Source
AI summary
A coordinated fault-tolerant control method for a two-stage power module is provided. The two-stage power module includes a front-stage circuit and a rear-stage circuit. The front-stage circuit has a DC midpoint. Each of a first side circuit and a second side circuit of the rear-stage circuit includes two rear-stage switch sets. If one switch in one of the two rear-stage switch sets in the first side circuit fails, disable the other switch in the rear-stage switch set. Operate the other rear-stage switch set in the first side circuit normally. One of the two rear-stage switch sets in the second side circuit is operated normally, and the other of the two rear-stage switch sets in the second side circuit is disabled.