Single Switching Module for Multi-Source DC Power Conversion
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing power converting devices for energy storage systems become large and costly when separate switching modules are configured for each DC voltage source, leading to increased size and reduced durability due to the need for multiple modules to operate effectively across multiple voltage sources.
Innovation Solution
A power converting device that employs a single switching module with upper and lower arm switching elements, capable of operating in multiple modes (power generation, charging, discharging, and grid charging) using a common switching module, which includes a DC link capacitor and relay elements to manage DC voltage from multiple sources, thereby reducing the device's size and complexity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If separate switching modules are configured for each DC voltage source, then the power converting device can effectively handle multiple voltage sources, but the size and cost of the device increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a single switching module that can operate in multiple modes (power generation mode, charging mode, discharging mode, and grid charging mode) to handle different DC voltage sources. This universal module replaces the need for separate switching modules for each voltage source, thereby reducing device size while maintaining the capability to effectively handle multiple DC voltage sources through configurable switching operations
2Adaptability or versatility
If separate switching modules are configured for each DC voltage source, then the power converting device can effectively handle multiple voltage sources, but the cost of the device increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple separate switching modules into a single integrated switching module that can perform all necessary power conversion functions across different operational modes. This consolidation reduces the total number of components required, lowering manufacturing costs while maintaining the adaptability to handle multiple DC voltage sources through unified control of the switching elements
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple switching modules are used, then the power converting device can handle multiple voltage sources, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a universal switching module design that can be configured to handle multiple DC voltage sources through different operational modes (power generation, charging, discharging, and grid charging). This single multi-functional module reduces device complexity by eliminating the need for multiple separate switching modules while maintaining full adaptability to various voltage source configurations
Data Source
AI summary
A power converting device, such as one used in an energy storage apparatus, comprises a first input terminal to receive a first DC voltage from a battery, a second input terminal to receive a second DC voltage from a power generation device, a switching module including a plurality of upper arm switching elements and a plurality of lower arm switching elements, and to output DC voltage to a DC link by switching the first DC voltage or the second DC voltage, and, a DC link capacitor disposed at the DC link, wherein at least some of the plurality of lower arm switching elements of the switching module operate in a power generation mode of the power generation device, and at least some of the plurality of upper arm switching elements of the switching module operate in a charging mode of the battery.