Nonlinear droop controller for parallel DC converters
This technology improves how multiple power sources share the load on a shared electrical bus. Traditional 'droop control' forces a tradeoff: tight voltage regulation OR balanced load sharing between sources, but not both at once. This invention uses a continuously adjustable, non-linear mathematical function to dynamically tune each power source's virtual resistance depending on how much current it is actually delivering. The result is better voltage stability at low loads and more equitable current sharing when demand is high — without switching between modes or requiring a communication link between sources.
What you could build
A firmware or control-IC module embedded in DC microgrids, EV charging stations, or data-center power systems that automatically optimizes voltage and load distribution across parallel converters. Power electronics OEMs, microgrid integrators, and data-center UPS manufacturers would be the primary buyers.
Who in Virginia should care
Defense contractors and naval facilities in the Hampton Roads area operate DC microgrids and shipboard power systems where parallel-converter load sharing is a persistent engineering challenge.
Readiness: Lab validated
Concept — described but not yet demonstrated. Lab validated — supported by experimental results in the patent. Prototype likely — the text describes a built, working embodiment.
Readiness is inferred from the patent text, not from a lab visit.
The record
- Inventors
- —
- Granted
- September 8, 2020
- Status
- Granted patent
- Patent number
- 102848
Ready to talk?
Virginia Tech Intellectual Properties handles licensing for this technology.
Prosim summaries are generated from public patent text and are not legal advice.