Energy accumulator apparatus and associated methods

An energy accumulator module (EAM) is coupleable electrically in parallel between a power source and an electrical load via a first transmission line and a second transmission line, to receive a DC voltage from the power source. The EAM includes a power converter having inductor coupled at a first end to the first transmission line, and at a second end to a node, a switching stage including a buck leg and a boost leg, and a capacitor coupled electrically in series between the boost leg and the second transmission line. A controller module is configured to control the switching stage to operate in one of a charge mode to charge the capacitor, and a discharge mode to provide a current to the first transmission line.

BACKGROUND

Electrical power systems, such as those found in an aircraft power distribution system, employ power generating systems or power sources, such as generators, for generating electricity for powering the systems and subsystems of the aircraft. As the electricity traverses electrical bus bars to deliver power from power sources to electrical loads, power distribution nodes dispersed throughout the power system ensure the power delivered to the electrical loads meets the designed power criteria for the loads. Power distribution nodes can, for instance, further provide voltage step-up or step-down power conversion, direct current (DC) to alternating current (AC) power conversion or AC to DC power conversion, or AC to AC power conversion involving changes in frequency or phase, or switching operations to selectively enable or disable the delivery of power to particular electrical loads, depending on, for example, available power distribution supply, criticality of electrical load functionality, or aircraft mode of operation, such as take-off, cruise, or ground operations. In some cases, the electrical system can also include an electrical accumulator unit to supplement the generator output power to provide transient performance and an electric start during an engine failure.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The described aspects of the present disclosure are directed to an electrical power distribution system or power distribution node for an aircraft, which enables production and distribution of electrical power, such as from a gas turbine engine driven generator, to the electrical loads of the aircraft. It will be understood that while aspects of the disclosure are shown or described for in-situ use in an aircraft environment, the disclosure is not so limited and has general application to electrical power systems in non-aircraft applications, such as other mobile applications and non-mobile industrial, commercial, and residential applications.

While “a set of” various elements will be described, it will be understood that “a set” can include any number of the respective elements, including only one element. Connection references (e.g., attached, coupled, connected, and joined) are to be construed broadly and can include intermediate members between a collection of elements and relative movement between elements unless otherwise indicated. As such, connection references do not necessarily infer that two elements are directly connected and in fixed relation to each other. In non-limiting examples, connections or disconnections can be selectively configured to provide, enable, disable, or the like, an electrical connection between respective elements. In non-limiting examples, connections or disconnections can be selectively configured to provide, enable, disable, or the like, an electrical connection between respective elements. Non-limiting example power distribution bus connections or disconnections can be enabled or operated by way of switching, bus tie logic, or any other connectors configured to enable or disable the energizing of electrical loads downstream of the bus.

As used herein, while sensors can be described as “sensing” or “measuring” a respective value, sensing or measuring can include determining a value indicative of or related to the respective value, rather than directly sensing or measuring the value itself. The sensed or measured values can further be provided to additional components. For instance, the value can be provided to a controller module or processor, and the controller module or processor can perform processing on the value to determine a representative value or an electrical characteristic representative of said value. Non-limiting aspects of the disclosure are directed to controlling or regulating the delivering, supplying, providing, or the like, of power from a source to an electrical load.

As used herein, a “system” or a “controller module” can include at least one processor and memory. Non-limiting examples of the memory can include Random Access Memory (RAM), Read-Only Memory (ROM), flash memory, or one or more different types of portable electronic memory or any suitable combination of these types of memory. The processor can be configured to run any suitable programs or executable instructions designed to carry out various methods, functionality, processing tasks, calculations, or the like, to enable or achieve the technical operations or operations described herein.

While described herein as comprising separate elements, in non-limiting aspects, such controllers and modules can be incorporated on one or more devices including a common device, such as a single processor or microcontroller. Non-limiting examples of such controllers or module can be configured or adapted to run, operate, or otherwise execute program code to effect operational or functional outcomes, including carrying out various methods, functionality, processing tasks, calculations, comparisons, sensing or measuring of values, or the like, to enable or achieve the technical operations or operations described herein. The operation or functional outcomes can be based on one or more inputs, stored data values, sensed or measured values, true or false indications, or the like. While software or “program code” is described, non-limiting examples of operable or executable instruction sets can include routines, programs, objects, components, data structures, algorithms, etc., that have the technical effect of performing particular tasks or implement particular abstract data types. In another non-limiting example, a controller module can also include a data storage component accessible by the processor, including memory, whether transition, volatile or non-transient, or non-volatile memory. Additional non-limiting examples of the memory can include Random Access Memory (RAM), Read-Only Memory (ROM), flash memory, or one or more different types of portable electronic memory, flash drives, Universal Serial Bus (USB) drives, the like, or any suitable combination of these types of memory. In one example, the program code can be stored within the memory in a machine-readable format accessible by the processor. Additionally, the memory can store various data, data types, sensed or measured data values, inputs, generated or processed data, or the like, accessible by the processor in providing instruction, control, or operation to affect a functional or operable outcome, as described herein.

The program can include a computer program product that can include machine-readable media for carrying or having machine-executable instructions or data structures stored thereon. Such machine-readable media can be any available media, which can be accessed by a general purpose or special purpose computer or other machine with a processor. Generally, such a computer program can include routines, programs, objects, components, data structures, algorithms, etc., that have the technical effect of performing particular tasks or implement particular abstract data types. In another non-limiting example, a control module can include comparing a first value with a second value, and operating or controlling operations of additional components based on the satisfying of that comparison. For example, when a sensed, measured, or provided value is compared with another value, including a stored or predetermined value, the satisfaction of that comparison can result in actions, functions, or operations controllable by the controller module.

Aspects of the disclosure can be employed in any electrical circuit environment comprising a power source delivering power to a load. One non-limiting example of such an electrical circuit environment can be an aircraft power system architecture, which enables production of electrical power from at least one spool of a turbine engine, and delivers the electrical power through a power converter to a set of electrical loads. A typical power converter is a power supply or power processing circuit that converts an input voltage into a specified output voltage. A controller can be associated with the power converter to control an operation thereof by selectively controlling the conduction periods of switches employed therein. The switches employed by the power converter are typically semiconductor switching devices (e.g., MOSFETs). Although various non-limiting aspects are depicted and described herein using various semiconductor switching devices such as MOSFETS, other aspects are not so limited. Other non-limiting aspects can include any desired switching device that can switch a state between a low resistance state and a high resistance state in response to an electrical signal. For example, the switching devices in various aspects can comprise, without limitation, any desired type of switching element including for example, transistors, gate commutated thyristors, field effect transistors (FETs), insulated-gate bipolar transistors (IGBT)s, MOSFETs, and the like.

For conventional power systems, there is an increasing need to support pulsating electrical loads, resulting in more complex and costly systems due to rapid switching in the pulsing load. In particular, typical pulsating loads, such as phase controlled SCR loads and switched mode power supply (SMPS) loads, for example, can call for or demand a load current from a power generation system (e.g., a generator) that can vary randomly or on a repetitive basis resulting in larger output steps with increasing load current slew rates. In such instances, the rate of a change of the current required or demanded by the load (i.e., the load current demand) can exceed an available rate of change of a source current provided by the generator (i.e., the available source current), for example due to inertia or other physical characteristics associated with the generator. This difference between the load current demand and the available source current can result in load input voltage dips or sags in proportion to the applied load. These voltage dips due to the pulsing load can result in harmonic distortion, or transient voltage impulses

In response, conventional active rectification schemes are often employed due to their improved control bandwidth and resultant improved transient response. However, active rectification has some drawbacks, such as decreased efficiency due to ever present switching losses. Additionally, active rectification schemes typically require additional gate drive devices and semiconductor switching devices to handle large full load currents, resulting in increased system costs and complexity. Furthermore, such active rectification can result in added control circuit complexity when operating under short circuit conditions.

Aspects as disclosed herein can provide a simpler, lower cost, and more efficient solution compared to active rectification and other techniques by providing an energy accumulator module cooperative with a power generator system to provide a current to a load during transient periods of high demand. For example, in some instances, aspects as disclosed herein can provide a current to the load having an AC component that is outside of the bandwidth of the generator. Additionally, aspects as disclosed herein can provide an improved performance and transient response compared to diode rectification and other conventional techniques.

The exemplary drawings are for purposes of illustration only and the dimensions, positions, order and relative sizes reflected in the drawings attached hereto can vary

FIG.1illustrates a simple schematic depiction of a non-limiting aspect of a power distribution system100. A power source110can be electrically coupled to an electrical load120via a set of electrically conductive power distribution bus22. An energy accumulator module (EAM)140can be coupled to the power distribution bus22via a first transmission line141and a second transmission line142, respectively. The EAM140can be electrically coupled in parallel with the electrical load120. A first current116can be arranged to flow in the first transmission line141. The power source110can output or provide a second current117to the electrical load120via the power distribution bus22. As illustrated, the power source110and EAM140can cooperatively provide a load current119to the load via the power distribution bus22. As will be described in more detail herein, althoughFIG.1depicts the first current116schematically as an arrow having a particular direction that is indicative of a direction of current flow, in aspects, the first current116can be arranged to selectively flow in an opposite direction (e.g., toward the EAM140) than is shown inFIG.1. Regardless of the type of electrical load120, the power source110can be configured, adapted, selected, or the like, to provide power to the electrical load120. In this sense, the power can include different electrical characteristics, including, but not limited to, voltage levels, current amounts, power type (e.g. AC or DC), frequency, or a combination thereof.

FIG.2illustrates a more detailed schematic view of another power distribution system100, coupled to the electrical load120to provide the load current119thereto via the set of power distribution bus22, in accordance with non-limiting aspects described herein. The power distribution system100can include the power source110and the EAM140. The EAM140can include a power converter150and a controller module170. In non-limiting aspects, the power source110can include an AC generator115, a prime mover or generator driver114(e.g., a motor), a DC power source109(e.g., a battery, a rectifier, or the like), an exciter113, and a rectifier130. The DC power source109can be electrically coupled to the exciter113to provide a DC voltage Vin thereto. The exciter113can be electrically coupled to the generator115to provide a field current to a rotor winding of the generator115. The generator driver114can be coupled to the generator115to drive the generator115to thereby produce an AC voltage Vac at an output of the generator115.

As illustrated, the AC input voltage Vac can be a 3-phase AC input voltage Vac. However, other aspects are not so limited, and the AC input voltage Vac can comprise any desired number of phases, including single-phase, and have any desired frequency. The AC voltage Vac can be provided to an input of the rectifier130via the power distribution bus22. The rectifier130is configured to convert or rectify the AC input voltage Vac to a rectified or DC voltage Vr. The rectifier130can provide the DC voltage Vr at an output of the rectifier130to the power distribution bus22. EAM

The EAM140can be electrically coupled with the rectifier130to receive the rectified DC voltage Vr therefrom. For example, a pair of power distribution bus22conductors can be coupled at an output of the rectifier130to receive the rectified voltage Vr therefrom, and the first and second transmission lines141,142can be coupled to a respective power distribution bus22. In this way, the rectified voltage can be defined across the first and second transmission lines141,142

As illustrated, the rectifier130can be a diode-type rectifier130. However, other aspects are not so limited, and the rectifier130can be arranged using a conventional rectifier device such as thyristors or semiconductor diodes, alone or in combination with other devices, to convert the AC input voltage Vac to the rectified DC voltage Vr. Additionally, in various non-limiting aspects, the rectifier130can optionally be configured as a single-phase rectifier or as a poly-phase rectifier (e.g., a three-phase rectifier), and can be further configured to provide half-wave or full wave rectification, as desired.

The operation of the power converter150can be controllable by the controller module170. As will be described in more detail herein, based on control signals (not shown) received from the controller module170, the power converter150can selectively operate in one of a charge mode and a discharge mode. In non-limiting aspects, when the power converter150is operating in the discharge mode, the first current116will flow in the first transmission line141toward the electrical load120, as depicted inFIG.2. Conversely, in non-limiting aspects, when the power converter150is operating in the charge mode, the first current116will flow in the first transmission line141toward the power converter150, that is, in the opposite direction depicted inFIG.2.

WhileFIG.2depicts a single power source110and EAM140coupled to a single respective electrical load120, other aspects are not so limited. In non-limiting aspects, one or more power sources110, EAMs140, electrical loads120, or combinations thereof, can be included without departing from the scope of the disclosure. The illustration is merely one non-limiting example configuration of the power distribution system100. While the electrical load120is described herein in the context of a pulsating electrical load, it is contemplated that aspects as described herein are not limited by the electrical load type. In various non-limiting aspects, the electrical load120can optionally include, without limitation, a resistive load, a resistor-capacitor load, an inductive load, a switching load, a pulsating load, and combinations thereof. The electrical load120can consume power in at least two different operating schemas: normal (or continuous) operation, wherein the quantity or amount of power consumed is generally predictable and consistent, and transient periods of operation, wherein the quantity of power is generally temporal, pulsating, or temporary. The transient periods of operation can originate from particular load operating conditions.

Additionally, whileFIG.2depicts by way of non-limiting example, a particular arrangement with an exciter113arranged to provide a field current to the rotor winding of the generator115, other aspects are not so limited. In other non-limiting aspects, power source110can include a shunt or self-excited type exciter113, or can include a conventional excitation boost system (EBS), permanent magnet generator (PMG), auxiliary winding type, or the like, without departing from the scope of the disclosure. Additionally, or alternatively, non-limiting aspects can also include an automatic voltage regulator (not shown) to supply DC output to the exciter stator.

While the controller module170is illustrated inFIG.2as proximal to the power converter150, and the electrical load120, this need not necessarily be the case. In non-limiting aspects, the power converter150can be disposed proximal to the electrical load120, while the controller module170can disposed remotely from the electrical load120and the power converter150.

In some instances, the electrical load120can operate with a high-power transient current demand. For example, the electrical load120can operate necessitating a rapid rate of rise of the load current119which can temporarily exceed the ability of the power source110to supply the full amount of current demanded by the electrical load120. Such a transient load current demand (e.g., when the load current demand is increasing faster than the second current117is rising) can result in an undesired a drop, dip, or sag in the rectified DC voltage Vr at the electrical load120. The voltage drop can result in undesirable consequences, including but not limited to, reduced performance of the electrical load120, causing the electrical load120to operate outside of expected functionality.

However, as will be described in more detail herein, during such high power transient current demand events that exceed the ability of the power source110to supply the full amount of current demanded by the electrical load120, aspects of the EAM140can be controllable by the controller module170to selectively operate in the discharge mode to provide the first current116to augment or supplement the second current117. The EAM140can enable the power system100to supply the full amount of current demanded by the electrical load120during the event. In non-limiting aspects, when the EAM140is operating in the discharge mode, the first current117will flow in the first transmission line141in the direction depicted inFIG.2, i.e., toward the electrical load120.

Conversely, in some instances, an operation of the electrical load120can exhibit a transient current demand associated with a rapid drop of the load current which can temporarily exceed the ability of the power source110to timely reduce the second current117provided to the electrical load120. Such a transient load current demand (e.g., when the load current demand is decreasing faster than the second current117provided by the power source110is dropping) can result in undesirable consequences, including but not limited to, reduced performance of the electrical load120, causing the electrical load120to operate outside of expected functionality.

However, as will be described in more detail herein, during such transient current demand events when the load current demand is decreasing faster than the second current117is dropping, aspects of the EAM140can be controllable by the controller module170to selectively operate in the charge mode in which a portion of the second current117is provided to the EAM140as the first current116. For example, based on control signals (not shown) received from the controller module170, the power converter150can selectively operate in the charge mode, to receive the first current116to charge a power storage device (not shown) in the power converter150. When the power converter150is operating in the charge mode, the first current116will flow in the first transmission line141in the opposite direction depicted inFIG.2, that is, toward the power converter150.

In still other instances, the electrical load120can be operating within the ability of the power source110to timely supply the full amount of current demanded by the electrical load120(i.e., when the second current117is at least equal to the load current119in all frequencies). In such instances, when the power storage device (not shown) in the power converter150is fully charged, the operation of the EAM140can be further controllable by the controller module170to selectively operate in an open or neutral mode in which the first current116cut off.

FIG.3illustrates a more detailed schematic view of a non-limiting aspect of the EAM140ofFIG.2. As shown, the controller module170can be communicatively coupled to the power converter150via a set of control lines173to control an operation thereof. The controller module170can include a processor172and memory174. A set of sensors can be communicatively coupled with the controller module170via a set of communication lines175. In non-limiting aspects, the set of sensors can include a first sensor161, a second sensor162, and a third sensor163. The power converter150can include a switching stage156electrically coupled to a capacitor C1and an inductor L1. For example, the inductor L1can be coupled at a first end to the switching stage156at a node154, and coupled at a second end to the first transmission line141. In non-limiting aspects, the capacitor C1, the inductor L1and switching stage156can cooperatively define a DC-DC converter155. The DC-DC converter155can be electrically coupled electrically in parallel between the first and second transmission lines141,142. It will be appreciated that whileFIG.3depicts the second transmission line142coupled to ground180, this need not be the case. In other non-limiting aspects, the second transmission line can be floating with respect to ground without departing from the disclosure herein.

In non-limiting aspects, the DC-DC converter155can be a buck-boost DC-DC converter, such as a bi-directional buck-boost converter. In non-limiting aspects, the DC-DC converter155can be a half-bridge type DC-DC converter. For example, the switching stage156can include a high side switch or boost leg158, and a low side switch or buck leg159. The boost leg158and buck leg159can be coupled together at the node154. The capacitor C1can be coupled electrically in series between the boost leg158and the second transmission line142. The buck leg159can be coupled electrically in series between the node154and the second transmission line142. For example, in some non-limiting aspects, the second transmission line142can optionally be coupled to ground180, the buck leg159can thus be coupled electrically in series between the node154and ground180, while the capacitor C1can be coupled electrically in series between the boost leg158and ground180. A first voltage V1across the capacitor C1can be equal to or based on the rectified DC voltage Vr.

Non-limiting examples of the set of sensors161,162,163can include a current sensor, a voltage sensor, or the like, arranged, adapted, or otherwise configured in various combinations to sense or measure a respective predetermined parameter such as an amount of power, voltage, current, or combinations thereof. The set of sensors161,162,163can be communicatively coupled to the controller module170via respective communication line175to provide a corresponding signal indicative of a value of the respective sensed parameter to the controller module170. The communication lines175can be wired or wireless communication lines. For example, as illustrated, in non-limiting aspects, the first sensor161can comprise a voltage sensor arranged to sense a first voltage V1across the capacitor C1. The second sensor162can comprise a current sensor arranged to sense the first current116. In non-limiting aspects, the first current116can be a current through the inductor L1. The third sensor163can comprise a current sensor arranged to sense the load current119in the power distribution bus22.

For example, the controller module170can receive, via a respective communication line175, one or more of a first signal161aindicative of a value of the first voltage V1across the capacitor C1, a second signal162aindicative of a value of the first current116, and a third signal163a indicative of a value of the load current119. In other aspects, one or more sensors can be used to sense a desired predetermined parameter or value such as, without limitation, an amount of power, voltage, current, frequency, or combinations thereof and to provide a corresponding signal indicative of the respective sensed parameter to the controller module170.

The memory174can be communicatively coupled with the set of sensors160. In this sense, the set of sensors160can provide, or the controller module170can obtain, a respective signal indicative of the predetermined sensed parameters. In one non-limiting aspect, the controller module170can optionally be further communicatively coupled with another power or system controller176remote from the EAM140. In one non-limiting example, the system controller176can be adapted, enabled, or otherwise configured to controllably operate the controller module170or aspects of the EAM140. For instance, the system controller176can include additional information of operational characteristic values pertinent to the EAM140, the power source110, or the electrical load120. For instance, in the non-limiting example of an aircraft environment, the system controller176can include additional information of operational characteristic values pertinent to control schema aspects related to the flight phase or environmental operating characteristic of the aircraft, which may affect the energizing of the electrical load120.

In non-limiting aspects, the controller module170can be configured to control an operation of the switching stage156based on the value of the sensed or measured parameters. For example, in one non-limiting aspect, the controller module170can be configured to control an operation of the switching stage156based on the measured value the first voltage V1, the measured value of the first current116, and a measured value of the load current119.

Additionally, or alternatively, in non-limiting aspects, the controller module170can be configured to control an operation of the switching stage156based on a comparison of, or difference between, the value of one measured parameter with the value of another measured parameter.

Non-limiting aspects of the power control circuit105can include operations wherein, for example, predetermined parameters can be sensed or measured by the set of sensors161,162,163and provided via the communication lines175to the controller module170. The controller module170, processor172, or system controller176can be configured to determine a respective value for the predetermined parameters. In some aspects, controller module170, processor172, or system controller176can be configured to determine a comparison of, or difference between, the value of one measured parameter with the value of another measured parameter.

Based on the determined respective values of the sensed or measured parameters, the controller module170can be configured to selectively operate the switching stage156in one of the charge mode and discharge mode by switchably controlling the duty cycle of the boost leg158and the buck leg159.

The direction of the first current116when the EAM140is operating in the charge mode is opposite the direction of the first current116when the EAM140is operating in the discharge mode. As such, the EAM140can operate in only one of the charge mode or discharge mode at a given time. When the EAM140is operating in the discharge mode, the direction of the first current is toward the electrical load120, and thus the load current119can be a sum of the second current117and first current116. When the EAM140is operating in the charge mode, the direction of the first current116is reversed from the discharge mode (i.e., away from the electrical load120) and the first current116can be equal to a difference between the load current119and the second current117. When the EAM140is operating in the charging mode, the switching stage156can be arranged to selectively provide the first current116to the capacitor C1from the first transmission line141via the boost leg158.

When the EAM140is operating in the discharge mode, the switching stage156can be arranged to selectively provide or inject the first current116(e.g., an injection current) to the first transmission line141via the node154based on energy stored in the capacitor C1. In non-limiting aspects, the first current116can include a low-frequency AC component.

The controller module170can be configured to provide a signal (e.g. one or more gate signals) via control lines173to the switching stage156to switchably operate the switching stage156in the discharge mode.

The controller module170can be further configured to provide a signal (e.g. one or more gate signals) via control lines173to the switching stage156to switchably operate the switching stage156in the charge mode. In response to the switching stage156operation in the charging mode, the DC-DC converter155can provide the first current116to the capacitor C1, from the first transmission line141via the node154.

FIG.4illustrates a more detailed schematic view of a non-limiting aspect of the EAM140. The EAM140depicted inFIG.4is similar to the arrangement as described with respect toFIG.3, except in this non-limiting aspect, the boost leg158is illustrated as comprising a first semiconductor switching device156a(e.g., a MOSFET device) and the buck leg159is illustrated as comprising a second semiconductor switching device156b(e.g., a MOSFET device). Other non-limiting aspects can include any desired switching device that can switch a state between a low resistance state and a high resistance state in response to a signal from the controller module170via the control lines173. For example, the first and second semiconductor switching devices156a,156bin various aspects can comprise, without limitation, any desired type of switching element including for example, transistors, gate commutated thyristors, field effect transistors (FETs), or insulated-gate bipolar transistors (IGBTs).

The first semiconductor switching device156acan comprise a first source terminal S1, first gate terminal G1, and first drain terminal D1. Likewise, the second semiconductor switching device156bcan comprise a second source terminal S2, second gate terminal G2, and second drain terminal D2. As shown, the drain terminal D1of the first semiconductor switching device156ais electrically coupled to the second source terminal S2of the second semiconductor switching device156bto define the node154. In non-limiting aspects, the node154can operate as an output neutral or single-phase AC output node or terminal. The gate terminals G1, G2of the respective first and second semiconductor switching devices156a,156bcan be communicatively coupled to the controller module170via the control lines173. In other non-limiting aspects, the gate terminals G1, G2of the respective first and second semiconductor switching devices156a,156bcan be communicatively coupled to a gate driver device or circuit (not shown) that is responsive to the controller module170.

The controller module170can be configured to selectively provide one or more gate signals158a,159ato the gate terminals G1, G2, respectively. For example, the gate signals158a,159acan be provided by the controller module170by way of the control lines173. The first and second semiconductor switching devices156a,156bcan be selectively operable in response to the respective gate signals158a,159abetween an ON or conducting state, and an OFF or non-conducting state. The first and second semiconductor switching devices156a,156bcan be alternatingly operated or switched between the ON or conducting state, and the OFF or non-conducting state at a predetermined frequency to thereby provide a sinusoidal waveform output or AC voltage at the node154.

The first source terminal S1of the first semi-conductor switching device156acan be coupled to a first end (e.g., an anode end) of the capacitor C1. The second drain terminal D2of the second semiconductor switching device156bcan be coupled to a second end (e.g., a cathode end) of the capacitor C1. In aspects, a positive DC voltage, can be provided to the first source terminal S1, and a negative DC voltage can be provided to the second drain terminal D2. In non-limiting aspects, the second drain terminal can be coupled to ground180.

The DC-DC converter155can selectively operate in one of a buck mode, or a boost mode, depending on the duty cycle of the first and second semiconductor switching devices156a,156band the load DC link voltage. In non-limiting aspects, for example, the first and second semiconductor switching devices156a,156bcan enable the switching stage156to step up or step down the first voltage V1. The DC-DC converter155can operate in only one of the buck mode or boost mode at a given time.

In another non-limiting example, the EAM140can include a set of energy storage components, or energy “reservoirs”, such as, without limitation, capacitors, inductors, or a combination thereof (not shown). In this example, the set of energy storage components can be used to cooperatively supply the first current116to the electrical load to supplement the second current117from the power source110.

FIG.5illustrates a flow chart demonstrating a method800of operating a power distribution system100, such as explained herein with respect to the EAM140. The method800begins at step810, by coupling the first transmission line141and the second transmission line142of the EAM140to a set of power bus coupled to an electrical load120. The coupling the first and second transmission lines141,142can include coupling the EAM140electrically in parallel with the electrical load120.

The power converter150can include the switching stage156. In non-limiting aspects, the switching stage156can include the first and second semiconductor switching devices156a,156barranged to define a buck leg159and a boost leg158, the buck leg159can be coupled in electrically series between the second transmission line142and the boost leg158at the node154. The power converter150can also include the capacitor C1coupled electrically in series between the second transmission line142and the boost leg158. The EAM140can include an inductor L1coupled at a first end to the first transmission line143, and at a second end to the node154. The EAM140can include the controller module170communicatively coupled to the switching stage156, and communicatively coupled to the set of sensors160. In non-limiting aspects, the controller module170can be coupled to the switching stage156via the set of control lines173, and to the set of sensors160via the set of communication lines175.

Next, the method800can include, at step830, receiving, by the controller module170, a first signal161aindicative of a value of the first voltage V1across the capacitor C1, a second signal162aindicative of a value of the first current116, and a third signal163aindicative of a value of the load current119.

The method800can continue at step840by controlling, by the controller module170, an operation of the switching stage156based on the first signal161a, the second signal162a, the third signal163a. In non-limiting aspects, the controlling an operation of the switching stage156can includes selectively operating the EAM140in one of a charge mode and a discharge mode. In some non-limiting aspects, when operating in the charge mode, the EAM140can be arranged to selectively provide the first current116to the capacitor C1. In non-limiting aspects, when operating in the discharge mode, the EAM140can be arranged to selectively provide the first current116to the electrical load120.

The sequence depicted is for illustrative purposes only and is not meant to limit the method800in any way as it is understood that the portions of the method can proceed in a different logical order, additional or intervening portions can be included, or described portions of the method can be divided into multiple portions, or described portions of the method can be omitted without detracting from the described method.

Many other possible aspects and configurations in addition to that shown in the above figures are contemplated by the present disclosure. Additionally, the design and placement of the various components can be rearranged such that a number of different in-line configurations could be realized.

The aspects disclosed herein provide a method and apparatus for operating a power distribution system. The technical effect is that the above described aspects enable the power controller to regulate the DC content of the capacitor C1, and to inject AC load current to the output load using energy provided from the capacitor C1while the average value of the capacitor C1voltage remains regulated. This can remove the high frequency content from the load current which improves load current regulation over that of conventional techniques.

One advantage provided by the above aspects of the disclosure compared to conventional diode rectifier topology is that a simple, and lower cost, solution to improve DC power generation transient performance can be realized. Additionally, aspects as described herein provide improved efficiency over conventional active rectification techniques because the switching action of the switching portion creates losses only during the transient voltage dips or reduction. Additionally, aspects as described herein provide improved electromagnetic interference performance compared to conventional active rectification techniques because the PWM signals can be contained within the power converter enclosure. For example, for a given set of high-power transient demands, the aspects described herein minimize stress on a given power converter, or minimizes a designed or rated power characteristics of the power converter.

In another non-limiting advantage, the current disclosure allows for or enables the electrical protection from the power converter being overloaded by transient current demands, as explained herein. Thus, aspects of the disclosure can enable the power system designer to minimize the volume, weight and cost of the power converter to achieve a competitive advantage. Reduced weight and size correlate to competitive advantages during flight.

To the extent not already described, the different features and structures of the various aspects can be used in combination with each other as desired. That one feature cannot be illustrated in all of the aspects is not meant to be construed that it cannot be, but is done for brevity of description. Thus, the various features of the different aspects can be mixed and matched as desired to form new aspects, whether or not the new aspects are expressly described. Combinations or permutations of features described herein are covered by this disclosure.

1. An energy accumulator module (EAM) (140) coupleable electrically in parallel between a power source (110) and a load (120), the EAM (140) comprising: a first transmission line (141) and a second transmission line (142) coupleable to a respective power distribution bus (22) coupling the power source (110) to the load (120) to receive a DC voltage (Vr) therefrom; a power converter (150), comprising: an inductor (L1) coupled at a first end to the first transmission line (141), and at a second end to a node (154); a switching stage (156) arranged to define a buck leg (159) and a boost leg (158), the buck leg (159) and boost leg (158) electrically coupled at the node (154) and electrically in parallel with the inductor (L1), the buck leg (159) further electrically coupled to the second transmission line (142), a capacitor (C1) coupled electrically in series between the boost leg (158) and the second transmission line (142), and a controller module (170) configured to receive a first signal (161a) indicative of a first voltage (V1) across the capacitor (C1), a second signal (162a) indicative of a first current (116) through the inductor (L1), and a third signal (163a) indicative of a load current (119) in at least one of the power distribution bus (22), wherein the controller module (170) is communicatively coupled to the switching stage (156) to selectively control an operation thereof based on the first signal (161a), the second signal (162a), and the third signal (163a).

2. The EAM (140) of the preceding clause, wherein the switching stage (156) is selectively controllable by the controller module (170) to operate in one of a charge mode and a discharge mode.

3. The EAM (140) of any preceding clause, wherein, when the switching stage (156) is operating in the charge mode, the power converter (150) is arranged to provide the first current (116) to the capacitor (C1).

4. The EAM (140) of any preceding clause, wherein when the switching stage (156) is operating in in the discharge mode, the power converter (150) is arranged to provide the first current (116) from the inductor (L1) to the first transmission line (141).

5. The EAM (140) of any preceding clause, wherein when the switching stage (156) is operating in the discharge mode, the load current (119) is equal to a sum of the first current (116) and the second current (117).

6. The EAM (140) of any preceding clause, wherein when the switching stage (156) is operating in the charge mode, the first current (116) is provided to the EAM (140) through the inductor (L1).

7. The EAM (140) of any preceding clause, wherein when the switching stage (156) is operating in the charge mode, the first current (116) is equal to a difference between the load current (119) and the second current (117).

8. The EAM (140) of any preceding clause, wherein the controller module (170) is configured to controllably operate the switching stage (156) in the discharge mode when a rate of rise of the load current (119) is greater than a rate of rise of the second current (117).

9. The EAM (140) of any preceding clause, wherein the controller module (170) is configured to controllably operate the switching stage (156) in the charge mode when a rate of decrease of the load current (119) is faster greater than a rate of decrease of the second current (117).

10. The EAM (140) of any preceding clause, wherein the power converter (150) comprises a bi-directional buck-boost power converter (150).

11. A method of operating an energy accumulator module (EAM), the method comprising: coupling an energy accumulator module (EAM) (140), comprising a power converter (150) communicatively coupled to a controller module (170), electrically in parallel between a power source (110) and an electrical load (120) via a first transmission line (141) and a second transmission line (142); receiving a DC voltage at the power converter (150) from the power source (110), wherein the power converter (150) comprises an inductor (L1) coupled at a first end to the first transmission line (141), and at a second end to a node (154), a switching stage (156) arranged to define a buck leg (159) and a boost leg (158), the buck leg (159) and boost leg (158) electrically coupled at the node (154) and electrically in parallel with the inductor (L1), the buck leg (159) further electrically coupled to the second transmission line (142), and a capacitor (C1) coupled electrically in series between the boost leg (158) and the second transmission line (142); and receiving, by the controller module (170), a first signal (161a) indicative of a first voltage (V1) across the capacitor (C1), a second signal (162a) indicative of a first current (116) through the inductor (L1), and a third signal (163a) indicative of a load current (119) provided to the electrical load (120); and controlling, by the controller module (170), an operation of the switching stage (156) based on the first signal (161a), the second signal (162a), and the third signal (163a).

12. The method of any preceding clause, wherein the controlling, by the controller module (170), an operation of the switching stage (156) includes selectively operating the switching stage (156) in one of a charge mode and a discharge mode.

13. The method of any preceding clause, wherein, when the switching stage (156) is operating in the charge mode, the power converter (150) is arranged to provide the first current (116) to the capacitor (C1).

14. The method of any preceding clause, wherein when the switching stage (156) is operating in the discharge mode, the power converter (150) is arranged to provide the first current (116) from the inductor (L1) to the first transmission line (141).

15. The method of any preceding clause, wherein when the switching stage (156) is operating in the discharge mode, the load current (119) is equal to a sum of the first current (116) and the second current (117).

16. The method of any preceding clause, wherein when the switching stage (156) is operating in the charge mode, the first current (116) is provided to the EAM (140) through the inductor (L1).

17. The method of any preceding clause, wherein when the switching stage (156) is operating in the charge mode, the first current (116) is equal to a difference between the load current (119) and the second current (117).

18. The method of any preceding clause, wherein the controller module (170) is configured to controllably operate the switching stage (156) in the discharge mode when a rate of rise of the load current (119) is faster greater than a rate of rise of the second current (117).

19. The method of any preceding clause, wherein the controller module (170) is configured to controllably operate the switching stage (156) in the charge mode when a rate of decrease of the load current (119) is faster greater than a rate of decrease of the second current (117).

20. The method of any preceding clause, wherein the power converter (150) comprises a bi-directional buck-boost power converter (150).