Universal DC-DC/AC Converter with Reconfigurable Stages
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current power electronics converters are not adequately adapted to operate seamlessly in both DC and AC grids with minimal redundancy, limiting their efficiency and applicability in hybrid systems.
Innovation Solution
Development of universal DC-DC/AC converters with reconfigurable semiconductor stages and control systems, incorporating additional components like solid-state relays and suppression capacitors, allowing safe connection to both DC and AC grids with minimal redundancy in size, terminals, losses, and cost.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If conventional AC-DC converters are used with separate DC-DC converters for DC grid connection, then both AC and DC grid compatibility is achieved, but device complexity and redundancy increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a universal converter structure that can operate in both AC grid-connected mode and DC grid-connected mode using the same power electronic components. The converter uses bidirectional switches and capacitors that can function in both AC and DC configurations, eliminating the need for separate converter designs for different grid types.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges the AC-DC conversion functionality and DC-DC conversion functionality into a single integrated converter structure. By combining these functions, the patent reduces redundancy and simplifies the overall system architecture while maintaining compatibility with both AC and DC grids.
2Adaptability or versatility
If hybrid converters with additional DC terminals and internal power electronics are used, then DC and AC application suitability is improved, but device complexity and component redundancy increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent designs a universal converter where the same power electronic switches and components serve dual purposes for both AC and DC applications. The converter can be configured to connect to AC grids, DC grids, or operate in standalone mode using the same internal structure, eliminating the need for application-specific hardware variations.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs dynamic switching configurations where the converter topology can be reconfigured in real-time based on the connected grid type. The switches and capacitors can be arranged in different configurations through control logic, allowing the same physical hardware to adapt dynamically to AC or DC operating conditions.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiport converters with DC and AC terminals are used, then multi-grid operation is enabled, but manufacturing complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple grid connection capabilities into a single converter unit with unified power processing circuitry. By merging AC and DC connection functionalities into one design, the patent reduces the number of separate components that need to be manufactured and assembled, thereby simplifying production processes.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a universal converter platform that can be manufactured as a single product line serving multiple grid connection needs. This universal design allows for standardized manufacturing processes and component sourcing, reducing complexity compared to manufacturing separate specialized converters for AC and DC applications.
Data Source
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AI summary
The present invention proposes a power electronic converter structure, which can provide power transfer from input DC voltage source to the output AC or DC grid or load with minimal redundancy. Apparatus and methods provide reconfiguration of the semiconductor stages and control in order to achieve maximum efficiency and safe connection/disconnection. The universal single-phase DC-DC/AC converter can provide DC or AC output voltage in the off-grid mode using the same two output terminals. In the grid-connected mode, it can be connected to the AC or DC grid using the same terminal as well. Universality is achieved by means of any internal DC-DC converter, unfolding circuit, suppression capacitor and solid-state relay. Similar approach is used for universal three-phase converters. Well-known phase-integrated approach for AC voltage generation is supplemented by additional relay, suppression capacitors and solid-state relays. It allows to realize DC output voltage with parallel operation of internal DC-DC converters, which in turns provides maximum efficiency.