This section introduces information from the art that may be related to or provide context for some aspects of the technique described herein and/or claimed below. This information is background facilitating a better understanding of that which is disclosed herein. This is a discussion of “related” art. That such art is related in no way implies that it is also “prior” art. The related art may or may not be prior art. The discussion is to be read in this light, and not as admissions of prior art.
An AC link power converter is, in general, a device that converts an input power signal to meet the operating requirements of an electrical load. The conventional AC Link power converter firmware is programmed to operate specifically with a single type of input and output. Any change in input characteristics or output characteristics requires significant rework of the firmware. Additionally, the existing firmware only supports single-input/single-output operation. Multiport capabilities are not supported. Switching order and selection in conventional AC Link power converters is hardcoded into the firmware, requiring complete firmware redesign for every application.
More particularly, changes in input and/or output have required an intensive firmware rework effort for each type of converter. Existing switching logic for three-phase AC-DC, single phase AC-DC, and DC-DC converters are all substantially different and do not lend themselves to use in new converter configurations. Any modifications or changes (such as handling an inverted DC voltage) required a substantial reprogramming and debugging effort. Other configurations, such as performing AC-AC conversion or multiport operation have not even been attempted because of the complexity involved.
The presently disclosed technique is directed to resolving, or at least reducing, one or all of the problems mentioned above. Even if solutions are available to the art to address these issues, the art is always receptive to improvements or alternative means, methods and configurations. Thus, there exists and need for a technique such as that disclosed herein.