Detection and Diagnosis Solutions for Fault-Tolerant VSI

Abstract

This paper presents solutions for fault detection and diagnosis of two-level, three phase voltage-source inverter (VSI) topologies with IGBT devices. The proposed solutions combine redundant standby VSI structures and contactors (or relays) to improve the fault-tolerant capabilities of power electronics in applications with safety requirements. The suitable combination of these elements gives the inverter the ability to maintain energy processing in the occurrence of several failure modes, including short-circuit in IGBT devices, thus extending its reliability and availability. A survey of previously developed fault-tolerant VSI structures and several aspects of failure modes, detection and isolation mechanisms within VSI is first discussed. Hardware solutions for the protection of power semiconductors with fault detection and diagnosis mechanisms are then proposed to provide conditions to isolate and replace damaged power devices (or branches) in real time. Experimental results from a prototype are included to validate the proposed solutions.

A Novel Detection and Localization Approach of Open-Circuit Switch Fault for the Grid-Connected Modular Multilevel Converter

“…On the contrary, the open-circuit fault is not very destructive and may even maintain undetected for some periods. The open-circuit fault is usually caused by unavailable drive signals, internal rupture of the wire connections, bond wire lift-off, and so on [9]. The SM with an open-circuit fault shows abnormal behavior only under certain switching statuses.…”

Three‐phase qZ‐source inverter with fault tolerant capability

“…This solution uses an additional fourth leg to replace the damaged leg, maintaining the normal operation. Several fault‐tolerant VSI topologies with redundant standby active power devices combined with mechanical commutators are proposed to replace damaged devices by new devices [12]. A different solution based on multi‐paralleling of inverters for high output power and fault‐tolerant purpose can be found in [13].…”