Power Module Verification Device Using Segmented Transformer Inverter
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for verifying the operation of power modules, such as traction inverters in railway vehicles, require significant and costly high-power sources, bulky rectifiers, and inductive loads, leading to energy inefficiencies and high costs.
Innovation Solution
A verification device with an upstream module providing a lower voltage and higher current, a tool branch connected in parallel to the power module, and a downstream module forming a current loop with the branch under test, using a transformer and inverter circuit to simulate high-power conditions while consuming less energy.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a high-power AC power source with voltage greater than 500 Volts and current greater than 100 Amps is used to verify power module operation, then the verification accuracy is improved, but the device becomes bulky and expensive
Solution Approach 1:
The verification device is segmented into two independent modules: an upstream module providing high voltage at low current, and a downstream module providing low voltage at high current. These modules are connected through a transformer and inverter circuit, allowing the system to simulate high-power conditions without requiring a single bulky high-power source. The segmentation enables each module to be optimized independently for its specific function.
Solution Approach 2:
A transformer and inverter circuit are introduced as intermediary components between the upstream and downstream modules. The transformer converts the high voltage from the upstream module to a lower voltage suitable for the downstream module, while the inverter circuit generates the appropriate current waveform. This intermediary mechanism enables the transmission of power verification capability without requiring direct connection of bulky high-power components.
2Measurement precision
If a high-power AC power source with voltage greater than 500 Volts and current greater than 100 Amps is used to verify power module operation, then the verification accuracy is improved, but the energy consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The verification device is segmented into two independent modules: an upstream module providing high voltage at low current, and a downstream module providing low voltage at high current. These modules are connected through a transformer and inverter circuit, allowing the system to simulate high-power conditions without requiring a single bulky high-power source. The segmentation enables each module to be optimized independently for its specific function.
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically changes the voltage and current parameters through the transformer and inverter circuit. The upstream module operates at high voltage (greater than 500V) with low current (less than 10A), while the downstream module operates at low voltage (less than 500V) with high current (greater than 10A). This parameter transformation allows accurate verification of high-power modules while consuming significantly less energy than traditional methods.
3Measurement precision
If traditional high-power test equipment is used, then accurate verification of power module operation is achieved, but the cost of test equipment increases
Solution Approach 1:
The verification device is segmented into two independent modules: an upstream module providing high voltage at low current, and a downstream module providing low voltage at high current. These modules are connected through a transformer and inverter circuit, allowing the system to simulate high-power conditions without requiring a single bulky high-power source. The segmentation enables each module to be optimized independently for its specific function.
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically changes the voltage and current parameters through the transformer and inverter circuit. The upstream module operates at high voltage (greater than 500V) with low current (less than 10A), while the downstream module operates at low voltage (less than 500V) with high current (greater than 10A). This parameter transformation allows accurate verification of high-power modules while consuming significantly less energy than traditional methods.
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
Enables efficient verification of power module operation with reduced energy consumption and costs, eliminating the need for bulky and expensive test equipment, while maintaining accuracy by comparing current waveforms to reference signals.
Implementation Method 1
The downstream module comprises a transformer having a primary and a secondary, the primary of the transformer being connected in parallel with the second power source
Implementation Method 2
the downstream module comprises an inverter circuit, such as an H-bridge, the inverter circuit being connected in parallel with the second power source
Data Source
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AI summary
The present invention relates to a device (14) for verifying the operation of a power module (12) comprising three conversion branches including a switch with a diode connected in antiparallel, the verification device (14) comprising: a. a tool branch (42) including a switch with a diode connected in antiparallel, b. a downstream module (44) forming a current loop with the tool branch (42), c. a control module (46) configured to control the switches of the tool branch (42) and the branch under test according to a series of predetermined configurations, d. a measurement module (48) configured to measure the current in the current loop, and e. a verification module (50) configured to verify the operation of the branch under test as a function of the measured current.