Quad-T Transformer Single-Phase to Three-Phase Conversion
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing single-phase to three-phase adapters using solid-state switching devices are prone to failure and have a limited useful life, especially in harsh environments, due to susceptibility to noise and environmental stressors.
Innovation Solution
A transformer with a 90-degree phase shift, referred to as a quad-T transformer, which includes split windings and orthogonal closed-loop windings, is used in conjunction with a Scott-T transformer to provide a bi-directional single-phase/three-phase converter, reducing electromagnetic noise and relying on passive components for reliability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If solid-state switching devices are used in single-phase to three-phase adapters, then power conversion functionality is achieved, but reliability deteriorates due to susceptibility to noise and environmental stressors
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces solid-state electronic switching devices with an electromechanical transformer-based solution. The quad-T transformer uses magnetic fields and mechanical winding structures to achieve power conversion, eliminating semiconductor switches and their associated reliability issues in harsh environments.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces magnetic cores as intermediary elements between the single-phase input and three-phase output. The magnetic fields in the transformer cores mediate the power conversion process, providing isolation and reducing the direct coupling that causes noise and reliability issues in solid-state adapters.
2Reliability
If solid-state switching devices are used in single-phase to three-phase adapters, then power conversion functionality is achieved, but electromagnetic noise increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces solid-state electronic switching devices with an electromechanical transformer-based solution. The quad-T transformer uses magnetic fields and mechanical winding structures to achieve power conversion, eliminating semiconductor switches and their associated reliability issues in harsh environments.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent converts the potentially harmful electromagnetic switching noise into beneficial continuous magnetic field transformations. The transformer operates on the principle of continuous magnetic induction rather than discrete switching events, transforming what would be noise into smooth power conversion.
3Duration of action of stationary object
If solid-state switching devices are used in single-phase to three-phase adapters, then power conversion functionality is achieved, but useful life is limited due to susceptibility to environmental stressors
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces solid-state electronic switching devices with an electromechanical transformer-based solution. The quad-T transformer uses magnetic fields and mechanical winding structures to achieve power conversion, eliminating semiconductor switches and their associated reliability issues in harsh environments.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent provides inherent protection against environmental stressors through the transformer's magnetic shielding and isolated winding structures. The magnetic cores and winding arrangements beforehand cushion the system against temperature extremes, humidity, and other environmental factors that would degrade solid-state devices.
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 provides a reliable and efficient power conversion with reduced electromagnetic noise, suitable for harsh environments, and extends the useful life of the converter by avoiding semiconductor switches, with losses only occurring in the windings and cores.
Implementation Method 1
a transformer that provides a 90-degree phase shift in an AC supply voltage includes a first split winding, a second split winding, and two orthogonal closed-loop windings coupled to the first split winding and the second split winding
Implementation Method 2
a Scott-T transformer with an output wired to the three-phase connection. The three-phase and single-phase connections might each be considered either an input or an output depending on which direction current is flowing through the converter
Data Source
AI summary
A quad-T transformer in some embodiments includes a first split winding, a second split winding, and two orthogonal closed-loop windings coupled between the first split winding and the second split winding. Wires can be wound around magnetic cores. A first of the two orthogonal closed-loop windings is coupled to a first portion of each of the first split winding and the second split winding. A second of the two orthogonal closed-loop windings is coupled to a second portion of each of the first split winding and the second split winding. A bi-directional single-phase/three-phase converter includes the quad-T transformer and a Scott-T transformer with an output connected to a three-phase connection. The Scott-T transformer also has a 90-degree input connected to the quad-T transformer and a zero-degree input connected to a single-phase connection.