18581617. Power Converter simplified abstract (Murata Manufacturing Co., Ltd.)
Contents
Power Converter
Organization Name
Murata Manufacturing Co., Ltd.
Inventor(s)
Gregory Szczeszynski of Hollis NH (US)
Power Converter - A simplified explanation of the abstract
This abstract first appeared for US patent application 18581617 titled 'Power Converter
Simplified Explanation: The patent application describes circuits and methods for protecting a multi-level power converter using no more than two high-voltage FET switches, allowing most power switches to be low-voltage FET switches. Protective circuits are designed to quickly respond to faults or transients to ensure safe operation.
- Protective circuits using high-voltage FET switches
- Quick response to faults or transients
- Use of low-voltage FET switches for most power switches
- Controlled current flow during fault conditions
- Limiting in-rush current during startup
Key Features and Innovation: - Use of high-voltage FET switches for protection - Quick response to fault conditions - Controlled current flow during faults - Limiting in-rush current during startup - Integration of low-voltage FET switches for power conversion
Potential Applications: - Power converters - Renewable energy systems - Electric vehicles - Industrial machinery - Uninterruptible power supplies
Problems Solved: - Protection of multi-level power converters - Quick response to fault conditions - Efficient power conversion - Limiting in-rush current during startup
Benefits: - Enhanced safety for power converters - Improved reliability of power systems - Efficient power conversion - Reduced risk of damage during fault conditions
Commercial Applications: Potential commercial applications include power converter systems for renewable energy installations, electric vehicle charging stations, industrial power systems, and uninterruptible power supplies. The technology offers enhanced protection and efficiency for various power applications.
Questions about Multi-Level Power Converter Protection: 1. How does the use of high-voltage FET switches improve the protection of multi-level power converters? 2. What are the benefits of quickly responding to fault conditions in power conversion systems?
Original Abstract Submitted
Circuits and methods for protecting a multi-level power converter using no more than two high-voltage FET switches while allowing all or most other power switches to be low-voltage FET switches. Some embodiments provide protective high-voltage top and bottom FETs designed to saturate before the remaining low-power FET switches saturate. Other embodiments may use only low-power FETs for the power switches but provide protective circuits configured to be in an always-ON (conducting) state when in normal power conversion operation, and to quickly switch to an OFF (non-conducting) state in the event of transients or a fault condition. Optionally, one or more of the protective circuits may be used in a controlled manner to limit or block current flow during certain types of fault conditions and/or to limit in-rush current during startup of a power converter.
