Switch Assembly for Reactive Power Compensation with Stacked Cooling Plates
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing switch assemblies for reactive power compensation apparatuses face challenges in optimal arrangement, alignment, and heat dissipation due to the heavy and bulky nature of thyristors, which complicates handling and installation.
Innovation Solution
A switch assembly with a support module and stacked switching modules, featuring cooling plates with engagement protrusions for alignment and heat dissipation, and modular design for easy installation, allowing for efficient stacking and cooling of thyristors.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Power
If thyristors are connected in series to control high voltage or high current, then the reactive power compensation capability is improved, but the weight and bulkiness of the switch assembly increases
Solution Approach 1:
The switch assembly is divided into multiple switching modules, each containing a limited number of thyristors connected in series. This segmentation allows the heavy thyristor assembly to be broken into manageable units that can be independently handled and installed, while still achieving the required high voltage blocking capability when modules are connected in series/parallel configurations.
2Power
If multiple thyristors are connected in series to achieve high voltage control, then the voltage control capability is improved, but the alignment difficulty increases due to heavy weight
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from horizontal/planar arrangement of thyristors to vertical stacking configuration. By arranging switching modules in the vertical dimension with engagement portions that guide alignment, the system achieves high voltage control capability while simplifying the alignment process through gravitational assistance and mechanical guidance features.
Solution Approach 2:
Engagement portions are introduced as intermediary mechanical features between switching modules. These engagement portions include alignment guides and positioning structures that facilitate precise alignment of heavy thyristor modules during assembly, eliminating the need for complex alignment procedures.
3Power
If thyristors are arranged to handle high current, then the current control capability is improved, but the heat dissipation challenge increases
Solution Approach 1:
The cooling plate is merged with the switching module structure, forming an integrated thermal management system. The cooling plate is positioned in direct thermal contact with the thyristors, creating a unified assembly where heat dissipation is built into the module itself rather than being a separate subsystem.
Solution Approach 2:
A liquid cooling system is implemented using cooling water flowing through channels in the cooling plate. This hydraulic cooling approach efficiently removes heat from the thyristors during high-current operation, maintaining operational temperature within acceptable limits.
4Area of stationary object
If a compact arrangement of thyristors is implemented, then the occupied area is reduced, but the installation complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The compact switch assembly is segmented into standardized switching modules that can be manufactured independently and then assembled. This modular segmentation maintains compact footprint while simplifying installation, as modules can be pre-assembled and tested before final installation in the reactive power compensation apparatus.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes vertical stacking of switching modules to achieve compact horizontal footprint. By arranging modules in the vertical dimension rather than spreading them out horizontally, the assembly occupies minimal floor space while maintaining ease of installation through standardized vertical stacking interfaces.
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 optimizes the arrangement and alignment of switches, minimizes occupied area, facilitates heat dissipation, and simplifies installation, enhancing the overall performance and efficiency of reactive power compensation systems.
Implementation Method 1
a plurality of cooling plates stacked along a vertical direction with respect to the supporting module; and a plurality of switches disposed between the plurality of cooling plates
Data Source
AI summary
A switch assembly of a reactive power compensation apparatus may include a first switching module having a first stack structure perpendicular to a supporting module, and a second switching module having a second stack structure perpendicular to the supporting module, the second switching module being connected in parallel with the first switching module. Each of the first and second switching modules may include a plurality of cooling plates stacked along a vertical direction with respect to the supporting module, and a plurality of switches disposed between the plurality of cooling plates. The cooling plate may include an engagement portion disposed on one side of the upper surface to be located at a normal position by guiding the switch.