Speed Regulator Supercapacitor THDI Reduction

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing variable speed drives do not effectively reduce Total Harmonic Distortion Index (THDI) at the input of the rectifier module, which affects the efficiency and compatibility with electrical supply networks.

Innovation Solution

Incorporating a DC/DC converter connected in parallel with the bus capacitor, a first inductor to transform the voltage source into a current source, and a second inductor connected in series with the first inductor, along with a control module to manage the current flow through energy storage means, such as supercapacitors, to control the DC/DC converter and reduce THDI.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If a DC/DC converter is connected in parallel with the bus capacitor to store braking energy and supply power during starting, then the device can fulfill energy storage and power supply functions, but the THDI at the input of the rectifier module is not reduced

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveenergy storage and power supply functionVSAvoidTHDI at input of rectifier module
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSObject-generated harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

A current source is introduced as an intermediary between the voltage source (bus capacitor) and the DC/DC converter. This current source, implemented through a device that transforms the voltage source into a current source, acts as a mediator that filters the current waveform, thereby reducing THDI while maintaining the energy storage and power supply functions of the DC/DC converter system

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The system is segmented into distinct functional modules: the bus capacitor (voltage source), the current source transformation device, and the DC/DC converter. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function optimally - the voltage source provides energy storage, the transformation device handles current waveform conditioning, and the converter manages power conversion, thereby reducing overall THDI

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

2Object-generated harmful factors

If a device is added to transform the voltage source into a current source, then THDI is reduced, but the device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
ImproveTHDI at input of rectifier moduleVSAvoidstructure of variable speed drive
Core Design Contradiction:
Object-generated harmful factorsVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The current source transformation device is designed to serve multiple functions: it transforms the voltage source into a current source, filters current harmonics to reduce THDI, and interfaces with the DC/DC converter system. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate dedicated components, thereby limiting the increase in device complexity while achieving THDI reduction

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

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 significantly reduces THDI at the input of the variable speed drive, optimizing the dimensioning of electronic switches and enhancing the drive's compatibility with single- or three-phase supply networks, while maintaining energy storage and power supply functions.

Implementation Method 1

a first inductor (L1), making it possible to transform the voltage source constituted by the bus capacitor (Cb) into a current source

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElectromagnetic Induction: Electromagnetic Induction

Implementation Method 2

a second inductor (L2) connected in series with the first inductor

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElectromagnetic Induction: Electromagnetic Induction

Implementation Method 3

means for storing the electrical energy recovered during braking of the electrical load, such as one or more supercapacitors

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectCapacitance: Capacitance

Data Source

PatentEP2131483B1Speed regulator with super capacitor
Publication Date: 2011.09.07 SCHNEIDER TOSHIBA INVERTER EUROPE SAS
  • EP2131483B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP2131483B1 patent drawing

AI summary

The regulator (1) has an inductor (L2) mounted on a positive line or negative line of a continuous power supply bus between a direct current/direct current converter (14) and a bus capacitor (Cb). The capacitor is connected between the lines of the bus. The inductor transforms a voltage source formed by the capacitor into a current source. An estimating unit estimates currents (I1, I2) circulating in the lines of the bus. A converter control module (2) controls current (luc) passing through a supercapacitor (UC), based on the estimated currents.