Versatile Distribution Transformer With Removable Power Electronic Module
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional distribution transformers fail to protect digital loads against voltage disturbances such as sags, swells, and distortion, leading to significant economic losses due to poor power quality.
Innovation Solution
A versatile distribution transformer is developed, incorporating a power electronic module with semiconductor switching devices and a ferromagnetic core, which is removably mounted in a pocket to reduce voltage variations and improve power quality by connecting to the winding structures, and housed in a sound-insulated enclosure with ventilation for cooling.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a conventional distribution transformer is used, then the structure is simple and cost-effective, but it cannot protect digital loads against voltage disturbances such as sags, swells, and distortion
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines a conventional distribution transformer with a power electronic module into a single integrated unit. The power electronic module is physically mounted on the transformer core and electrically connected to the windings, merging two previously separate systems (transformer and power quality protection device) into one unified device that provides both voltage transformation and power quality protection functions
Solution Approach 2:
The integrated transformer-power electronic module system performs multiple functions simultaneously: it provides voltage transformation like a conventional transformer, while also providing power quality protection (sag compensation, swell mitigation, distortion correction) through the power electronic module. This multi-functional design eliminates the need for separate protection devices
2Reliability
If power electronics are integrated with a conventional distribution transformer, then power quality is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The power electronic module is designed as a separate, modular unit that can be independently installed and removed from the transformer. This segmentation allows the complex power electronic components (switching devices, capacitors, inductors) to be isolated in a self-contained module, making the overall system easier to manufacture, maintain, and upgrade without redesigning the entire transformer
3Manufacturing precision
If a power electronic module is added to the transformer, then voltage variations are reduced, but the manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The power electronic module is pre-assembled and tested as a complete functional unit before being mounted on the transformer. This preliminary assembly allows for standardized manufacturing processes, quality control, and simplifies the final installation step, where the pre-tested module is simply mounted onto the transformer core and connected to the windings
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 effectively reduces output voltage variations, enhances power factor control, and improves power quality, protecting digital loads and reducing economic losses associated with voltage disturbances.
Implementation Method 1
A transformer achieves this voltage conversion using a primary coil and a secondary coil, each of which are wound on a ferromagnetic core and comprise a number of turns of an electrical conductor
Implementation Method 2
The power electronic module is operable to reduce variations in the output voltage of the distribution transformer and includes a plurality of semiconductor switching devices
Implementation Method 3
A power electronic module is removably mounted in the cavity of the pocket. The power electronic module is operable to reduce variations in the output voltage of the distribution transformer and includes a plurality of semiconductor switching devices
Implementation Method 4
The housing includes one or more walls having sound insulating material secured to an inner surface thereof
Data Source
AI summary
A versatile distribution transformer (10) having an electromagnetic transformer (12) and a power electronic module (14) is provided. A pocket (100) having connectors electrically connected to at least one winding structure (22) of the electromagnetic transformer (12) is mounted above the electromagnetic transformer (12). The power electronic module (14) is removably mounted in a cavity of the pocket (100). The power electronic module (14) includes a plurality of semiconductor switching devices and a plurality of connectors adapted to slidably engage the connectors of the pocket (100). The power electronic module (14) is movable between a removed position, wherein the power electronic module (14) is located outside the pocket (100), and an installed position, wherein the power electronic module (14) is disposed in the cavity of the pocket (100) and the connectors of the power electronic module (14) engage the connectors of the pocket (100) so as to electrically connect the power electronic module (14) to the at least one winding structure (22).