Heterogeneous solid state transformers with hierarchical control
AssigneeNational Technology & Engineering Solutions of Sandia, LLC
InventorsJack D. Flicker, Jacob Mueller
Life of this patent
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Abstract
Structural modularity is critical to solid-state transformer (SST) and solid-state power substation (SSPS) concepts, but operational aspects related to this modularity are not yet fully understood. Previous studies and demonstrations of modular power conversion systems assume identical module compositions, but dependence on module uniformity undercuts the value of the modular framework. A hierarchical control approach for modular SSTs achieves system-level objectives while ensuring equitable power sharing between nonuniform building block modules. This enables module replacements and upgrades which leverage circuit and device technology advancements to improve system-level performance.
Claims11
A solid state transformer, comprising:
- a system controller;
- and
- a module controller;
- wherein the system controller generates a module operational setpoint that is provided to the module controller to derive switching signals for a switching module;
- and
- wherein the switching module uses a low bandwidth signal, the low bandwidth signal is between 10-300 Hz.
A method of controlling power distribution within a power distribution system, comprising:
- distributing at one or more nodes in the power distribution system a solid state transformer comprising a hierarchical control architecture that enables the stable operation of paralleled and/or series-connected heterogeneous modules in a common system by distributing module-specific (fast-time) controls to individual modules while system-level behavior (slow-time) response is centralized.
Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.