Reconfigurable Power Flow Controller for DC Mesh Networks
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing power flow control devices in mesh networks are limited by their intrinsic configuration, which restricts their ability to respond to a full range of operating states, particularly in direct current networks where currents can have multiple paths and resistances vary, leading to inefficient current distribution and underutilization of network links.
Innovation Solution
A power flow control system with a controlled voltage source and a switching interface comprising multiple switches, allowing the device to connect to network terminals in various configurations, enabling it to manage a greater number of operating states by reconfiguring its connection settings through duty cycles and switch control.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a power flow control device with a fixed intrinsic configuration is used, then the device structure is simple, but the device can only respond to a limited number of operating states (N0 < N1)
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the dynamics principle by making the power flow control device reconfigurable through a switching interface that can change its connection topology. The device transitions from a static configuration to a dynamic one where switches can connect different terminals to network links based on the operating state, allowing the device to adapt to all N1 operating states rather than being limited to N0 states.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements universality by designing a switching interface that enables the power flow control device to perform multiple functions across different operating states. The same physical device can be reconfigured to handle various current directions and voltage polarities, making it universally applicable to all twelve operating states rather than being specialized for a limited set.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the switching interface uses M switches (M≥4) to achieve full operating state coverage, then the adaptability increases, but the device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies parameter changes by controlling the switching interface through duty cycles that adjust the effective number and configuration of active switches based on the operating state. Rather than permanently installing all possible switches, the system dynamically changes the operational parameters of the switching network to activate only the necessary connections for each operating state, optimizing the balance between adaptability and complexity.
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 system effectively extends the operational capabilities of power flow control devices to manage all twelve possible operating states, optimizing current distribution and utilization of network links, thereby enhancing the efficiency and flexibility of mesh network operations.
Implementation Method 1
said device comprising at least one controlled voltage source connected between two of its terminals
Implementation Method 2
A switching interface interposed between said terminals of the system and said terminals of the device, said switching interface comprising a number M of switches
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to a system intended to be employed in a DC mesh network that comprises at least one cell comprising at least one node between a first link, a second link and a third link, said network being able to operate in a number Ni of operating states, said system comprising: • - A device for controlling power flow, said device being inserted into said node of the cell and comprising a first terminal (A), a second terminal (B) and a third terminal (C), said device comprising at least one controlled voltage source connected between two of its terminals, said controlled voltage source of the device for controlling power flow having an intrinsic topology arranged to correspond to a number No of operating states of the network, No being higher than or equal to 1 and lower than Ni, • - A first terminal intended to be connected to a first link of said links of the cell, a second terminal intended to be connected to a second link of said links of the cell and a third terminal intended to be connected to a third link of said links of the cell, • - A switching interface (ISW) inserted between said terminals of the system and said terminals of the device, said switching interface (ISW) comprising a number M of on/off switches, M being higher than or equal to four and chosen taking into account the value of said number N 0 and of said number Ni, • A control unit (UC) configured to control the M on/off switches of said switching interface (ISW) with a view to connecting each terminal (A, B, C) of said device for controlling power flow to a separate terminal of the system and to correspond to an operating state of the network.