UPS Harmonic Suppression via Segmented Power Modules

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional UPS systems in ECO mode generate harmonics when supplying power to non-linear loads, which can pollute the grid and cause local abnormalities.

Innovation Solution

The UPS system includes a bypass module to supply fundamental wave current and a power module to supply harmonic current to the non-linear load, preventing harmonic generation and grid pollution by adding both currents when the bypass module operates in ECO mode.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Loss of energy

If the bypass module supplies power to non-linear load in ECO mode, then energy saving is achieved, but harmonics are generated and grid pollution occurs

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveenergy consumptionVSAvoidharmonic generation

Core Design Contradiction:

Loss of energyVSObject-generated harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The patent segments the power supply function into two independent modules: the bypass module supplies fundamental wave current while the power module supplies harmonic current. This segmentation allows each module to perform its specific function without generating harmful harmonics, resolving the contradiction between energy saving and harmonic generation.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The power module acts as an intermediary that compensates for the harmonic current generated by non-linear loads. By injecting the compensating harmonic current from the power module, the system achieves both energy saving through bypass operation and harmonic elimination, thus resolving the technical contradiction.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Device complexity

If the inverter stands by in conventional ECO mode, then device complexity is reduced, but harmonics pollute the grid

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveinverter operation stateVSAvoidgrid pollution

Core Design Contradiction:

Device complexityVSObject-generated harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

Instead of having the inverter fully operate or completely standby, the patent applies partial action by having the power module only supply the harmonic current component when bypass is operating. This partial engagement of the power module eliminates harmonics while maintaining the energy-saving bypass mode, resolving the contradiction between device simplicity and grid quality.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #16Partial or excessive action

Data Source

PatentUS9203266B2UPS system and method of supplying power to non-linear load

Publication Date: 2015.12.01 VERTIV CORP

AI summary

An UPS system and a method of supplying power to a non-linear load are provided. The UPS system may include a bypass module configured to supply a fundamental wave current to a non-linear load of the UPS system; and a power module configured to supply a harmonic current to the non-linear load when the bypass module operates normally.