Multi-Phase Grid Interface System

Problem: Need for efficient power conversion for multi-phase systems, with robust ac interfaces. Technology: Improving the efficiency in electrical power conversion reduces unneeded power consumption. This invention provides a multi-phase power converter architecture with a robust ac interface, enabling an improvement in efficiency over traditional implementations. The design inherently provides the capability for bidirectional and reactive power control capability for each phase independently, or in unison for wye and delta three-phase systems. These features are useful for providing interactive features for smart-grid participations, and improved reliability in uncertain voltage conditions. Each input / output port (phase) is logically connected in series, and can scale to the required number of input/output connections for applications in motor drives and ac-ac converters. Christopher Noble crn@mit.edu