Research at 成人大片Enhance performance and lifetime of converter systems
Background
Harnessing the power of wind and other renewable energy sources has become increasingly crucial in our quest for sustainable and clean electricity generation. As systems such as wind turbines continue to grow in size, reaching staggering power ratings of up to 8 MW, traditional two-level converter technologies face daunting challenges due to voltage and current limitations. The three-level Neutral Point Clamped (NPC) converter emerged as a promising solution, reducing voltage stress on power devices.
However, a major challenge in NPC converters is the unequal distribution of power losses among the semiconductors, leading to varying thermal stress and reduced lifetime. Operating the converter at lower frequencies exacerbates this problem, causing increased junction temperature ripples and further compromising converter longevity. While different modulation strategies have been proposed to optimize the operation of NPC converters, it is influenced by numerous factors, such as balancing of the neutral point voltage, as well as minimizing and distributing losses among the power switches. Novel active and multi鈥憀evel converter topologies have also been proposed but increase costs and complexity.
Technology Overview
This technology introduces a novel modulation scheme that addresses the diverse challenges in optimizing NPC converter operation. Unlike complex and convoluted Active NPC (ANPC) topologies and their intricate switching schemes, this scheme provides an elegant and simplified solution that can be directly applied to the simple NPC topology. By equally distributing losses among the main switching devices, it surpasses state-of-the-art modulation schemes implemented on advanced ANPC converters, even when applied to basic NPC converters. Embracing the merits of the NPC topology, such as dynamic voltage sharing and dv/dt control, this technology has the potential to take renewable energy conversion systems to unprecedented heights. Moreover, while this modulation scheme provides strong benefits to commercial topologies it can also offer similar benefits to novel converter topologies.
Benefits
- Improved Power Conversion Capability: Significantly enhances the power conversion capability of NPC converters, unlocking the full potential of high鈥憄ower wind energy systems.
- Increased Lifetime: Increases the converter鈥檚 lifespan by equalizing thermal stress on semiconductors, reducing maintenance and replacement costs.
- Reduced Junction Temperature Ripples: Operating the converter at lower frequencies has reduced adverse effects. This scheme mitigates prolonged heating of the most stressed power devices, reducing junction temperature ripples and ensuring stable and durable converter performance.
- Cost Savings: Allows for the use of smaller and less expensive DC capacitors due to reduced current ripple, resulting in cost savings for wind energy conversion systems. Cut expenses without compromising performance.
Applications
This modulation scheme for loss balancing in NPC converters has wide-ranging applications, including:
- Wind Energy Conversion Systems: Particularly valuable in wind energy conversion systems, enabling sustainable, efficient, and reliable power conversion in high-power wind farms and offshore installations.
- Medium Voltage Applications: NPC converters find utility in various medium voltage applications, such as industrial motor drives, renewable energy integration, and smart grids.
Opportunity
Queen鈥檚 University is currently seeking licensing opportunities for this modulation scheme. By partnering with us, you have the opportunity to bring this technology to the market and unlock its potential. Here are the key advantages of exploring a licensing agreement:
- Technology Access: Gain access to Queen's proprietary modulation scheme to enhance the performance, lifespan, and cost-efficiency of NPC converters in wind energy conversion systems. Acquire the rights to implement this technology and differentiate your offerings in the competitive market.
- Market Expansion: Expand your product portfolio and capture a larger market share by incorporating this modulation scheme into your existing line of wind energy conversion systems. Leverage the benefits of this modulation scheme to establish a competitive edge and strengthen your brand reputation. Maximize your returns while delivering value-added solutions to the market.
- Collaborative Innovation: By partnering with us, you join forces with a team of experts who are dedicated to driving innovation in the wind energy sector. Collaborate with Queen's experienced researchers and engineers, leveraging their knowledge and expertise to further enhance and customize the modulation scheme to fit your specific product requirements.
IP Status
Provisional patent
Seeking
- Development partner
- Commercial partner
- Licensing
Posted
July 18, 2023