Segmented Transformer Windings for Leakage Inductance and Bidirectional Power
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing electrical power converters lack efficient methods to integrate switches and capacitors within transformer or autotransformer windings to manage leakage inductance and enable bi-directional power flow while maintaining compact spatial structures.
Innovation Solution
The integration of segmented windings within transformers or autotransformers, where each turn is divided into cells with switches and capacitors arranged opposite each other, allowing for compact 2D or 3D spatial structures and adjustable current capability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If switches and capacitors are integrated within transformer windings to manage leakage inductance, then power flow control capability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines switches and capacitors directly within the transformer winding structure, merging multiple functions (power flow control, leakage inductance management, energy storage) into a single integrated component rather than separate discrete elements
Solution Approach 2:
The integrated switching cells perform multiple functions simultaneously: they control power flow bidirectionally, manage leakage inductance, provide energy storage capability, and enable soft switching operations, making each component multi-functional
2Reliability
If segmented windings with embedded switches and capacitors are used, then leakage inductance management is improved, but manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The transformer winding is divided into multiple segmented cells, each containing embedded switches and capacitors. This segmentation allows independent optimization of each cell while maintaining overall system performance and enabling modular manufacturing approaches
Solution Approach 2:
The switches and capacitors are nested within the winding structure itself, with components embedded inside the magnetic core and winding assembly, creating a compact hierarchical structure where smaller components are contained within larger structural elements
3Volume of moving object
If switches and capacitors are arranged in opposition within a turn, then compact spatial structure is achieved, but ease of operation decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The switches and capacitors are arranged in opposition on opposite sides of the magnetic core, utilizing the spatial dimension across the core rather than linear arrangement, which achieves compactness while maintaining accessible positioning for connection and operation
4Adaptability or versatility
If bi-directional power flow is enabled through integrated switching cells, then adaptability is improved, but loss of energy increases
Solution Approach 1:
The integrated switching cells with embedded capacitors enable feedback control mechanisms that optimize power flow direction and magnitude, allowing the system to adapt to load conditions and minimize energy losses through intelligent power management
Solution Approach 2:
The switching cells can dynamically change operational parameters such as switching frequency, duty cycle, and capacitor charging/discharging timing to optimize efficiency under different operating conditions and minimize energy losses during bidirectional power flow
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
This arrangement enables efficient management of leakage inductance, allows for bi-directional power flow, and facilitates compact, adjustable current capability in electrical power converters.
Implementation Method 1
at least one capacitor arranged in opposition thereby dividing or splitting the at least one turn into four differentiated segments
Implementation Method 2
at least one turn of a winding wound around a magnetic core of a transformer or autotransformer
Implementation Method 3
at least one switch and at least one capacitor arranged in opposition
Data Source
AI summary
An electrical power converter with segmented windings is provided. Comprises a transformer or autotransformer including a magnetic core (3) and at least a primary winding (51) and at least a secondary winding (52) arranged around the magnetic core (3). The primary winding and/or the secondary winding have at least one full turn that includes at least one power switch (10) and at least one capacitor (12) connected in series and arranged respectively opposite each other and facing opposite sides of the magnetic core, defining a cell (4) that is divided in four segments, a first segment (23) including said at least one switch, a second opposite segment (24) including said at least one capacitor, and two other connecting segments (21, 22) providing electrical connection between the first segment and the second segment, and each of said two other connecting segments having opposite electrical polarity.