The invention addresses the limitations of Modular Multilevel Converters (MMC) used in high voltage applications, such as large sub-module capacitors and high conduction losses. The proposed solution is a new hybrid converter that combines the high power handling capability of thyristors with reduced losses and improved fault handling. This design allows thyristors to carry the full load current while IGBTs handle only a fraction, lowering costs and enhancing efficiency. The converter uses additional chain links to increase power handling capability and ensure current sharing, making it highly efficient and reliable for high voltage applications.
Figure (1) Hybrid Modular Multilevel Converter with additional chain link.
Modular multilevel converters (MMC) are widely used in high voltage applications due to their modular design and scalability. However, they have significant drawbacks such as large submodule capacitors, loss of control during DC faults, high conduction losses, and large circulating currents. These issues limit the efficiency, reliability, and fault-handling capabilities of MMCs, making it necessary to find improved solutions for high power and high voltage applications.
- The hybrid modular multilevel converters utilize thyristors with higher power handling capabilities, reducing overall losses and enhancing fault handling capability.
- The IGBTs carry only a fraction of the load current, which allows for the use of lower current-rated IGBTs, thereby reducing the cost of the converter.
- The additional chain links in the proposed scheme increase the power handling capability of the converter, ensuring better utilization of the thyristors.
- The use of chain links allows for current sharing among them, which decreases the peak current handled by each IGBT, enhancing the efficiency of the converter.
- The proposed topology ensures that the chain links are not in the main conduction path, which reduces conduction losses and fully utilizes the thyristors' power handling capability.
- The design includes small arm inductors to limit circulating currents, which minimizes the impact of fluctuations in SM capacitor voltage, ensuring stable operation.
The patent primarily describes computer simulation models to verify the functionality and performance of the Hybrid Modular Multilevel Converter (HMMC). It provides simulation parameters for single-phase and three-phase HMMC configurations, detailing aspects like DC link voltage, number and type of sub-modules, submodule capacitance, arm inductance, and load characteristics.
A Hardware prototype has been developed, and all the simulations and hardware studies have been successfully performed.
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- Enhanced Efficiency: Promotes the use of electric vehicles by providing efficient, high-torque motors, contributing to reduced greenhouse gas emissions and lower dependency on fossil fuels.
- Renewable Energy Support: Advances renewable energy technologies like wind and tidal power generation, aiding in the transition to sustainable energy sources and reducing environmental impact.
- Compact and Cost-Effective Solutions: Offers compact and economically viable alternatives for various applications, potentially lowering costs and making advanced technologies more accessible to a broader audience.
- Innovation in Transportation: Facilitates the development of electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) vehicles and other innovative transportation methods, potentially transforming urban mobility and reducing traffic congestion.
- Industrial Advancement: Enhances capabilities in industries requiring high-torque, low-speed motors, leading to improvements in productivity and efficiency in sectors like manufacturing and marine propulsion.
Power Transmission, Renewable Energy, High Voltage Direct Current (HVDC), Industrial Automation, Modular Multilevel Converter, FACTS, Drives, Hybrid Topologies, Alternate Arm Converter, Parallel Hybrid Converter.
Geography of IP
Type of IP
201821011623
494500