Half-bridge hybrid multilevel converter for HVDC and grid
This patent describes a new circuit architecture for modular multilevel converters (MMCs), which are the core hardware used to convert electricity between AC and DC at high voltages and power levels. The design uses simpler, cheaper 'half-bridge' building blocks instead of the more complex full-bridge modules found in some competing architectures, while adding a strategically placed capacitor and switching arrangement to retain key performance advantages. The result is a converter topology that can handle both AC-to-DC and DC-to-AC conversion with fewer costly components. This kind of converter is the backbone of high-voltage DC transmission links, large industrial motor drives, and grid-scale energy storage interfaces.
What you could build
A converter module or reference design licensed to power electronics OEMs and HVDC equipment manufacturers for use in grid interconnects, offshore wind collection systems, or large battery storage inverters; primary buyers would be companies like ABB, Siemens Energy, GE Vernova, or their Tier-1 supply chain.
Who in Virginia should care
Virginia's growing data center corridor and offshore wind development off the coast create demand for grid-scale power conversion hardware; Virginia-based utilities and power electronics integrators would be plausible licensees or development partners.
Readiness: Concept
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
- Jian Liu, Dong Dong, Rolando Burgos
- Granted
- March 21, 2023
- Status
- Granted patent
- Patent number
- 11611289
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.