Switching-cycle voltage balance firmware for MMC converters
This technology improves the control of modular multilevel converters (MMCs), which are the large power electronics systems used in high-voltage DC transmission lines, grid-scale energy storage, and industrial drives. The core innovation is a smarter timing method: instead of switching the upper and lower power cells in an MMC phase leg simultaneously, the controller calculates a precise delay between those switching events to keep the internal capacitor voltages balanced throughout each switching cycle. By solving a set of mathematical constraints in real time, the controller derives an optimal circulating current that minimizes voltage imbalance without adding extra hardware. The result is a converter that operates more efficiently, with less stress on components and reduced filtering requirements.
What you could build
A licensed control algorithm or firmware module embedded in MMC-based power conversion systems — such as HVDC transmission terminals, grid-scale battery inverters, or high-power motor drives — sold to power electronics OEMs or system integrators seeking improved converter efficiency and reliability.
Who in Virginia should care
Defense contractors and Navy shipboard power system suppliers in the Hampton Roads and Northern Virginia corridors would be natural targets, as would Dominion Energy for grid-tied HVDC or storage converter projects.
Readiness: Prototype likely
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
- Boran Fan, Dushan Boroyevich, Rolando Burgos, Jayesh Kumar Motwani, Jun Wang
- Granted
- July 7, 2026
- Status
- Granted patent
- Patent number
- 12676561
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.