Test Circuit for a Modular Multi-Cell Converter

Simple SummaryContent extracted from patent full text and abstract with AI.

This invention relates to a specialized test circuit for modular multi-cell converters, used in high-voltage direct current (HVDC) power transmission. The circuit allows voltage-regulated converter modules to be tested both with alternating current (AC) and direct current (DC) loads, and crucially, operates independently of external power grid frequencies, enabling flexible and realistic testing conditions for such converters.

Use CasesContent extracted from patent full text and abstract with AI.

• Testing voltage-source converter (VSC) modules in HVDC transmission systems during manufacturing or maintenance.
• Verifying performance and reliability of modular converter units before their deployment in large-scale HVDC installations.
• Quality assurance in the production of power electronic modules for grid integration and renewable energy applications (e.g., wind farms).
• Research and development of advanced converter topologies and components for power transmission.
• Laboratory simulations of real-world HVDC operating conditions without dependence on the external power network.

BenefitsContent extracted from patent full text and abstract with AI.

• Enables realistic, flexible testing of converter modules using both AC and DC loads, simulating true operating conditions.
• Independent of public network frequency, allowing tests for any target grid (50 Hz/60 Hz) or arbitrary frequencies.
• Reduces complexity, space, and installation costs compared to conventional back-to-back test setups that require grid connections and transformers.
• Provides more precise and controllable test environments with adjustable currents, voltages, and frequencies.
• Minimizes interference with the external grid and allows safer operation during testing phases.
• Can be implemented in both single-phase and three-phase configurations for further adaptation and system simplification.

Technical Classifications (CPCs)

Inventors & Applicants

Patent Abstract

A test circuit (100, 200) for a voltage-regulated power converter module (2) in power converters (6, 10, 206, 210) for high-voltage direct current transmission, comprising a first power converter (6, 206) with an alternating current connection (20) and a first and a second direct current connection (22), wherein the alternating current connection (20) in the first power converter (6, 206) is connected to the first direct current connection (22) via a first series (32) of voltage-regulated power converter modules (2), wherein the alternating current connection (20) in the first power converter (6, 206) is connected to the second direct current connection (22) via a second series (32) of voltage-regulated power converter modules (2), further comprising a second power converter (10, 210) with an alternating current connection (20) and a first and a second direct current connection (22), wherein the respective first direct current connections (22) are connected to each other and the respective second direct current connections (22) are connected to each other, which should enable a test of voltage-regulated power converter modules independent of the network frequency and using alternating and direct current load. In addition, the respective alternating current connections (20) are connected to each other via an inductance (104).