Abstract: To improve the product quality and added value of flexible DC converter valve, it is meaningful to investigate its corresponding industrial design method. Based on analyzing the design of the sub-module, valve module and valve tower of a ±320 kV flexible DC converter valve, a reasonable design method is proposed from the aspects of function, structure, modeling, man-machine, assembly, cost, coating and so on. The industrial design of ±500 kV converter valve is innovated by adopting a technology and design concurrent process and a function-and-ergonomics based "subtraction" design method. Through analysis and experimental verification, the design schemes have been applied to the engineering prototype. Through comparison of design schemes, an optimal industrial design scheme is obtained, which can ensure a better quality of design schemes from the perspective of knowledge. Meanwhile, it is of significance for product design innovation and new technology industrialization to integrate the industrial design into the high-tech research and development process.

Key words: industrial design, converter valve, flexible direct current transmission, ergonomics, concurrent design, "subtraction" design