This invention introduces a modular multilevel current source converter that enhances energy efficiency and reliability in various applications. By integrating auxiliary full bridge modules, it increases the output current levels without adding bulk, reducing costs, and simplifying control. This innovation benefits industries such as renewable energy, electric vehicles, and industrial automation by improving power distribution and system performance.
Figure (1) Modular Multilevel Converter with auxiliary submodule.
Traditional multilevel current source converters often struggle with limitations in generating sufficient output current levels, requiring additional modules that increase system size, cost, and complexity. The proposed solution addresses this challenge by integrating auxiliary full bridge modules into the converter design. These modules effectively increase the output current levels without the need for extra half-bridge modules, streamlining the system, reducing costs, and enhancing overall efficiency and reliability.
- Achieves more power levels without increasing size and cost.
- Simplifies operation and reduces complexity compared to traditional converters.
- Saves costs by minimizing the number of components needed.
- Boosts reliability and efficiency in high-power applications with innovative design features.
- The modular configuration offers flexibility for easy expansion of the number of levels without introducing undue complexity.
A prototype for this patent would involve constructing a scaled-down hardware model of the modular converter. This model would integrate main and auxiliary wave shaping (WS) circuits, each built from sub-modules containing capacitors and semiconductor switches (like IGBTs). The setup would include inductors for current smoothing and connect to a resistive-inductive (RL) load. Crucially, a digital control system would be implemented to precisely manage capacitor voltage balancing in the auxiliary circuit, control sub-module insertion and bypassing, and demonstrate the ability to achieve increased output voltage levels by leveraging these intermediate voltage states.
A Hardware prototype has been developed, and all the simulations and hardware studies have been successfully performed.
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Enables more efficient and reliable renewable energy integration. Reduces environmental impact through enhanced energy conversion technologies. Lower switching losses and improved efficiency in high-power applications would translate to less energy wasted as heat, leading to overall energy savings and reduced carbon footprint.
Renewable Energy (Facilitates efficient integration of renewable energy sources like solar and wind power), Electric Vehicles (EVs) (Enhances power electronics in EV chargers and traction systems), Industrial Automation (Optimizes power distribution and control in industrial machinery) ,Grid Infrastructure (Improves stability and efficiency in electrical grid systems).
Geography of IP
Type of IP
402/MUM/2015
428234