Prepayment conversion device

Abstract

The utility model belongs to the technical field of electric power control, and relates to a prepayment conversion device, which comprises a control unit, a signal conversion unit, an output unit and an indicating lamp unit, the signal conversion unit is arranged in an input and output path of the device and used for converting a feedback signal of an output end and then transmitting the feedback signal to an input end feedback signal, the output unit is used for output control, and the indicating lamp unit is used for indicating display. The intelligent control mode not only improves the automation level of a power system, but also ensures the stability and reliability of power supply; a two-way feedback mechanism of signals is achieved, problems possibly existing in an electric power system can be found and processed in time, and therefore accidents are effectively avoided. Through efficient output control of the output unit, continuity and stability of power supply are ensured.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This utility model relates to the field of power control technology, and more specifically, to a prepaid conversion device. Background Technology

[0002] In the power system, as the scale of photovoltaic energy connected to the national grid continues to expand, higher requirements are placed on control equipment. Early frame circuit breakers and molded case circuit breakers do not have prepaid functions, and existing four-way protocol conversion devices cannot directly and effectively control them. This results in a gap in the prepaid control link of photovoltaic grid connection, making it impossible to achieve accurate and efficient power management and control. Therefore, there is an urgent need for a conversion device that can make up for this deficiency. Utility Model Content

[0003] To address the aforementioned deficiencies in the prior art, this utility model provides a prepaid conversion device, comprising:

[0004] The device includes a control unit, a signal conversion unit, an output unit, and an indicator light unit. The control unit receives voltage signals and controls the operation logic of the output unit according to the signal status. The signal conversion unit is located in the input-output path of the device and is used to convert the feedback signal at the output end and transmit it to the feedback signal at the input end. The output unit is used for output control, and the indicator light unit is used for indication and display.

[0005] Preferably, the control unit includes a microcontroller, a data storage device, a clock module, and an interface circuit that are electrically connected.

[0006] Preferably, the signal conversion unit includes: an instrument transformer, a signal conditioning circuit, and an analog-to-digital converter electrically connected to each other.

[0007] Preferably, the output unit includes a relay and a protection circuit electrically connected to each other.

[0008] Preferably, the indicator unit includes: an LED indicator and a driving circuit.

[0009] Preferably, the device further includes a power supply unit.

[0010] Preferably, the device further includes a communication unit.

[0011] Preferably, the device further includes a human-computer interaction unit.

[0012] Preferably, the signal conditioning circuit includes an amplifier and a filter electrically connected together.

[0013] Preferably, the protection circuit includes: a fuse and a circuit breaker connected in series in the control unit for melting or tripping when the current is too high, thus cutting off the circuit; a diode connected in parallel at the power input terminal for reverse polarity protection; and a varistor and a transient suppression diode connected in parallel on the power supply or signal line for overvoltage protection.

[0014] The prepaid conversion device of this utility model has the following beneficial effects: By using a control unit to receive voltage signals and flexibly control the operation logic of the output unit according to the signal status, this intelligent control method not only improves the automation level of the power system but also ensures the stability and reliability of power supply; by setting up a signal conversion unit, the feedback signal at the output end can be converted and transmitted to the input end, realizing a two-way feedback mechanism, which helps to promptly detect and handle potential problems in the power system, thereby effectively preventing accidents; through the efficient output control of the output unit, the continuity and stability of power supply are ensured. Whether under normal power supply or emergency conditions, the output unit can respond quickly to meet the various needs of the power system; by introducing an indicator light unit, the operating status of the power system is provided with intuitive indication. Staff can quickly judge the operating status of the power system by observing the display of the indicator lights, and thus take corresponding measures for maintenance and management. Attached Figure Description

[0015] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions in the embodiments of this utility model or the prior art, the drawings used in the description of the embodiments or the prior art will be briefly introduced below. Obviously, the drawings described below are only some embodiments of this utility model. For those skilled in the art, other drawings can be obtained based on the structures shown in these drawings without creative effort. The utility model will be further described below in conjunction with the drawings and embodiments. In the drawings:

[0016] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the prepaid conversion device of this utility model;

[0017] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the terminal connections of the prepaid conversion device of this utility model;

[0018] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of the closing and opening connections of the prepaid conversion device of this utility model. Detailed Implementation

[0019] The technical solutions of the present utility model will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings of the embodiments. Obviously, the described embodiments are only some embodiments of the present utility model, and not all embodiments. Based on the embodiments of the present utility model, all other embodiments obtained by those of ordinary skill in the art without creative effort are within the protection scope of the present utility model.

[0020] It should be noted that if the embodiments of this utility model involve directional indicators (such as up, down, left, right, front, back, etc.), the directional indicators are only used to explain the relative positional relationship and movement of the components in a certain specific posture (as shown in the figure). If the specific posture changes, the directional indicators will also change accordingly.

[0021] Furthermore, if the embodiments of this utility model involve descriptions such as "first" or "second," these descriptions are for descriptive purposes only and should not be construed as indicating or implying their relative importance or implicitly specifying the number of indicated technical features. Therefore, features defined with "first" or "second" may explicitly or implicitly include at least one of those features. Additionally, the technical solutions of the various embodiments can be combined with each other, but this must be based on the ability of those skilled in the art to implement them. If the combination of technical solutions is contradictory or impossible to implement, it should be considered that such a combination of technical solutions does not exist and is not within the scope of protection claimed by this utility model.

[0022] Prepaid is a payment model where users pay for services or goods before using them. In the electricity sector, prepaid meters (also known as fixed-rate meters or IC card meters) are devices that require users to purchase electricity before using it. If a user runs out of electricity without purchasing more, the system automatically cuts off the power supply. Essentially, this model allows users to pay first and then use electricity, changing the traditional model of paying after use, effectively solving the problem of unpaid bills and improving the operational efficiency of power companies.

[0023] The prepaid conversion device in this embodiment is a device specifically designed to implement prepaid electricity functionality.

[0024] Please see Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the prepaid conversion device of this utility model. Figure 1 As shown, the prepaid conversion device provided in the first embodiment of this utility model includes at least the following:

[0025] The device includes a control unit, a signal conversion unit, an output unit, and an indicator light unit. The control unit receives voltage signals and controls the operation logic of the output unit according to the signal status. The signal conversion unit is located in the input-output path of the device and is used to convert the feedback signal at the output end and transmit it to the feedback signal at the input end. The output unit is used for output control, and the indicator light unit is used for indication and display.

[0026] The control unit is the core component of the prepaid conversion device. It is responsible for receiving voltage signals from the outside and controlling the operation logic of the output unit according to the signal status. The control unit is connected to the external circuit through the C control terminal, enabling it to monitor changes in the voltage signal in real time and control the output unit according to preset logic rules.

[0027] The control unit includes a microcontroller, a data storage device, a clock module, and interface circuits that are electrically connected.

[0028] The microcontroller (MCU) is responsible for data processing and control logic, and determines the action of the output unit based on the input voltage signal and the stored electricity balance information.

[0029] A microcontroller is a single-chip computer system that integrates a microprocessor, memory, input / output interfaces, and other peripherals. Microcontrollers include the STM32 series, PIC series (Microchip), LPC series (NXP), MSP430 series (Texas Instruments), and RX series (Renesas), among others. In this embodiment, the microcontroller selected is the STM32F103C8T6 from the STM32 series, which operates at a frequency of 72MHz and has 64KB of program memory.

[0030] The data storage device is used to store data such as the user's electricity balance, electricity usage records, and alarm information.

[0031] The clock module provides real-time clock functionality for time management, electricity billing cycle setting, and more. The clock module includes a crystal oscillator, a coin cell battery, and a clock chip. The crystal oscillator is the core component, utilizing the piezoelectric effect to generate a high-precision frequency signal, providing the system's reference clock signal. The coin cell battery powers the clock chip when the mains power is off, ensuring the clock continues to run. Clock chips such as the DS1302, DS1307, DS12C887, DS3231, DS3231M, and RX8025 are responsible for processing the clock signal, performing timing, and storing time data.

[0032] The interface circuit includes connection interfaces with the signal conversion unit, output unit and indicator light unit, as well as interfaces with external communication systems (such as GPRS, RS485, etc.).

[0033] The signal conversion unit includes: an electrically connected current transformer, a signal conditioning circuit, and an analog-to-digital converter.

[0034] Instrument transformers include current transformers and voltage transformers, which are used to convert high-voltage, high-current power signals into low-voltage, low-current signals for easier subsequent processing.

[0035] The signal conditioning circuit is used to filter and amplify the signal output from the current transformer to meet the input requirements of the ADC. The signal conditioning circuit includes an amplifier and a filter, which are electrically connected. The signal output from the current transformer is amplified by the amplifier to increase the signal amplitude and bring it to the input level required by the ADC. The filter then processes the amplified signal, removing noise and interference components and improving the signal-to-noise ratio.

[0036] Analog-to-digital converters (ADCs) such as ADI's AD976CRZ and AD7689BCPZRL7, Texas Instruments' ADS8860IDGSR and ADS1262IPWR, and NS's ADC0832CCN convert analog signals into digital signals for processing by subsequent digital circuits or computers.

[0037] The signal conversion unit is located in the input / output path of the device. Its main function is to convert the feedback signal at the output end and then transmit it to the input end as a feedback signal. This conversion not only ensures accurate signal transmission, but also effectively prevents the risk of overshoot voltage burning out the customer's equipment feedback port through an internal 3W 100KΩ resistor, thereby improving the stability and safety of signal transmission.

[0038] The output unit is used to output control signals to perform actions such as tripping and closing. The output unit includes a relay and a protection circuit that are electrically connected.

[0039] Relays are used to control the on / off state of circuits, enabling tripping or closing operations.

[0040] The protection circuit includes: a fuse and a circuit breaker connected in series in the control unit to melt or trip when the current is too high, thus cutting off the circuit; a diode connected in parallel at the power input terminal for reverse polarity protection; and a varistor and a transient suppression diode connected in parallel on the power or signal line for overvoltage protection.

[0041] In practical implementation, the protection circuit may also include overload protection circuits to ensure that the output unit is not damaged under abnormal conditions. Overload protection circuits include current relays (or thermal relays), fuses (or circuit breakers), current limiters, electronic fuses, and thermistors. The overload protection circuit uses current relays or thermal relays to detect the current magnitude in real time. Once an abnormal increase in current is detected, exceeding the rated value of the equipment or line, these detection elements will send a signal. The fuse (or circuit breaker) automatically trips when the current is too high to isolate the faulty circuit. Current limiters, electronic fuses, and thermistors prevent overloads by limiting current or changing resistance values, thus protecting the circuit safety.

[0042] The output unit is the execution part of the prepaid conversion device. It controls the switching of external circuits according to the instructions of the control unit. The output unit has four sets of passive output ports, two of which are normally closed and normally open, and the other two are momentary closing ports. This design allows the output unit to meet various control requirements, such as remote control for early photovoltaic power plant retrofits, meter-side control of molded case reclosing devices, meter-side control of frame circuit breakers, and remote voltage signal control of equipment start / stop applications.

[0043] The indicator light unit is used to indicate the operating status and alarm information of the display device. The indicator light unit includes LED indicators and a driving circuit. The LED indicators include green, red, and yellow, representing normal operation, malfunction, or low balance, respectively. The driving circuit provides a stable current to the LED indicators to ensure accurate and reliable indication.

[0044] The driving circuit includes an input filter circuit, a rectifier circuit, and a voltage or current adjustment circuit. The input filter circuit is connected first to remove harmonics and noise interference from the power grid, ensuring a clean input power supply. The rectifier circuit converts AC to DC, which can be achieved using a rectifier bridge. The voltage or current adjustment circuit adjusts the output voltage or current according to the LED's operating characteristics, ensuring the LED operates at its optimal state.

[0045] The driving circuit works by first filtering and rectifying the input AC power to convert it into DC power. Then, it adjusts the output voltage or current according to the LED's operating requirements to stabilize the LED's light emission. Furthermore, the driving circuit has overcurrent, overvoltage, and overheat protection mechanisms to ensure the LED is not damaged under abnormal conditions.

[0046] The indicator light unit is connected to the control unit and can visually display the voltage signal status at the C control terminal. When the voltage signal changes, the indicator light will light up or turn off accordingly, allowing operators to easily understand the device's operating status and control signal conditions. This design not only improves operational convenience but also ensures the safety and reliability of the device's operation.

[0047] In a specific implementation, this device may also include a power supply unit. The power supply unit provides a stable power supply to the entire device and may include a rectifier circuit, etc.

[0048] A rectifier circuit consists of a transformer, a main rectifier circuit, and a filter. Its working principle is to convert alternating current (AC) signals into direct current (DC) signals by switching diodes on and off. The transformer is used to match and electrically isolate the AC input voltage from the DC output voltage. The main rectifier circuit utilizes the unidirectional conductivity of diodes, conducting during the positive half-cycle and cutting off during the negative half-cycle, thus converting AC into pulsating DC. The filter is connected between the main rectifier circuit and the load to filter out the AC component from the pulsating DC voltage, making the output DC voltage more stable.

[0049] In practical implementation, this device may also include a communication unit. The communication unit is used for data exchange with external systems, such as a master station system or a remote meter reading system. Communication methods include, for example, GPRS, RS485, and NB-IoT.

[0050] In practical implementation, this device may also include a human-machine interface unit. The human-machine interface unit includes a display screen, buttons, etc., used to display electricity consumption information, electricity balance, and perform parameter settings and other operations.

[0051] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the terminal connections of the prepaid conversion device of this utility model; Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of the closing and opening connections of the prepaid switching device of this utility model. Figure 2 , Figure 3 As shown, the control unit is connected to a control terminal C (C represents the control signal input terminal), used to receive voltage signals and control the operation logic of the output unit according to the signal status. When a voltage signal is given to the control terminal C, ports 1 and 2 of the control output terminal are internally shorted for 3 seconds and then disconnected, while ports 6 and 7 are internally shorted. When the control terminal C loses a voltage signal, ports 3 and 4 of the control output terminal are internally shorted for 3 seconds and then disconnected, while ports 7 and 8 are internally shorted. Simultaneously, the control unit controls the indicator light unit according to the voltage signal status of the control terminal C, so that a slow flashing indicator light indicates no voltage signal at the control terminal C, and a constantly lit indicator light indicates a voltage signal at the control terminal C.

[0052] Figure 2 The correspondence between terminals and their functions is shown in the table below:

[0053] Terminal number Function Terminal number Function 1 Converter FireWire Input 8 When there is no control signal, pins 7 and 8 close for 3 seconds and then open. 2 / 9 / 3 Converter neutral input 10 FireWire Feedback Input 4 Voltage feedback signal line output 11 When a control signal is received, pins 11 and 12 are normally closed. 5 Voltage control signal line input 12 11, 13 common points 6 When a control signal is received, pins 6 and 7 close for 3 seconds and then open. 13 When there is no control signal, pins 12 and 13 are normally closed. 7 6 and 8 foot common points

[0054] The working principle of this prepaid conversion device to achieve the prepaid function is as follows:

[0055] Firstly, electricity purchase and storage: Before using a prepaid meter, users need to purchase electricity from the power supply department or designated electricity sales points. During the purchase process, users need to pay the corresponding fees and store the purchased electricity information on the meter or the connected prepaid system. This process is usually carried out through devices such as IC cards or remote recharge terminals.

[0056] Secondly, electricity metering and deduction: When a user begins using electricity, the prepaid meter measures the user's electricity consumption in real time and deducts the corresponding amount based on the consumption. During this process, the meter uses its internal metering chip and microcontroller to convert analog signals from voltage dividers and current transformers into digital signals, and performs digital integration to accurately measure active and reactive energy. Simultaneously, the meter transmits the electricity consumption information to the prepaid system in real time for subsequent electricity billing and management.

[0057] Thirdly, electricity bill settlement and reminders: When a user runs out of purchased electricity, the prepaid system will automatically cut off the power supply. At this time, the user needs to purchase electricity again to continue using electricity. To avoid power outages due to users forgetting to purchase electricity, prepaid systems usually provide electricity bill settlement and reminder functions. Through WeChat official accounts, SMS, Alipay service accounts, etc., the system can send users information such as electricity balance, electricity usage, and payment records in real time, reminding users to recharge in time.

[0058] Fourth, remote control and management: In addition to basic electricity metering and deduction functions, the prepaid conversion device also supports remote control and management functions. Through network connection, managers can remotely operate the meter, such as remotely switching the power supply on and off, adjusting electricity rates, and querying electricity usage records. This function not only improves the convenience of power management but also reduces the cost and risk of manual operation.

[0059] Fifth, alarms and protection: To ensure the safety and stability of electricity use, the prepaid conversion device can also be equipped with alarm and protection functions. When the electricity consumption approaches a preset threshold, the device will issue an alarm signal to remind the user to recharge in time. At the same time, the device also has multiple protection mechanisms such as overload protection, short circuit protection, and voltage fluctuation protection to ensure that the meter can work normally under abnormal conditions and protect the safety of user equipment.

[0060] The application scenarios for this prepaid conversion device include:

[0061] Firstly, residential electricity management: In residential communities, prepaid meters, in conjunction with a prepaid system, enable automated management and settlement of electricity bills. Users can purchase electricity and top up their meters using IC cards, WeChat, Alipay, and other methods. When the electricity is used up, the meter automatically cuts off power, preventing the problem of unpaid bills. Simultaneously, the system also provides functions such as checking electricity balance and electricity usage records, allowing users to easily understand their electricity consumption.

[0062] Secondly, commercial electricity management: In commercial premises, prepaid meters can be used to control the electricity consumption of individual shops or offices. Through the prepaid system, managers can remotely control and settle electricity bills for each electricity unit. This function not only improves the efficiency of electricity management but also reduces the cost and risk of manual operation. Simultaneously, the system can also provide energy consumption analysis and query functions, helping managers understand the electricity consumption of each unit and formulate reasonable electricity plans.

[0063] Thirdly, industrial electricity management: In the industrial sector, prepaid meters can be used to control the electricity consumption of production equipment. Through the prepaid system, managers can remotely control the switching on and off of production equipment and settle electricity bills. This function not only improves production efficiency but also reduces energy consumption and costs. Simultaneously, the system can provide real-time alarm and protection functions to ensure that production equipment can operate normally and protect its safety under abnormal conditions.

[0064] Fourth, remote control of photovoltaic power plants: In photovoltaic power plants, prepaid conversion devices can be used to achieve remote control and start / stop management of photovoltaic inverters. Through network connectivity and remote control functions, managers can monitor the operation of the photovoltaic power plant in real time and make remote adjustments and optimizations. This function not only improves the power generation efficiency and stability of the photovoltaic power plant, but also reduces operation and maintenance costs and risks.

[0065] The beneficial effects of this utility model, through the design of the above embodiments, are as follows: By using a control unit to receive voltage signals and flexibly control the action logic of the output unit according to the signal status, this intelligent control method not only improves the automation level of the power system but also ensures the stability and reliability of power supply; by setting a signal conversion unit, the feedback signal at the output end can be converted and transmitted to the input end, realizing a two-way feedback mechanism, which helps to promptly detect and handle potential problems in the power system, thereby effectively preventing accidents; through the efficient output control of the output unit, the continuity and stability of power supply are ensured. Whether under normal power supply or emergency conditions, the output unit can respond quickly to meet the various needs of the power system; by introducing an indicator light unit, an intuitive indication of the operating status of the power system is provided. Staff can quickly judge the operating status of the power system by observing the display of the indicator lights, and thus take corresponding measures for maintenance and management.

[0066] This utility model has been described based on specific embodiments, but those skilled in the art will understand that various changes and equivalent substitutions can be made without departing from the scope of this utility model. Furthermore, to adapt to specific applications of this utility model, numerous modifications can be made without departing from its protection scope. Therefore, this utility model is not limited to the specific embodiments disclosed herein, but includes all embodiments falling within the protection scope of the claims.

Claims

1. A prepaid conversion device, characterized in that, include: The device includes a control unit, a signal conversion unit, an output unit, and an indicator light unit. The control unit receives voltage signals and controls the operation logic of the output unit according to the signal status. The signal conversion unit is located in the input-output path of the device and is used to convert the feedback signal at the output end and transmit it to the feedback signal at the input end. The output unit is used for output control, and the indicator light unit is used for indication and display. The signal conversion unit includes: an electrically connected current transformer, a signal conditioning circuit, and an analog-to-digital converter; the signal conditioning circuit includes: an electrically connected amplifier and a filter.

2. The prepaid conversion device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The control unit includes a microcontroller, a data storage device, a clock module, and an interface circuit that are electrically connected.

3. The prepaid conversion device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The output unit includes a relay and a protection circuit that are electrically connected.

4. The prepaid conversion device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The indicator unit includes: LED indicator lights and driving circuits.

5. The prepaid conversion device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The device also includes a power supply unit.

6. The prepaid conversion device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The device also includes a communication unit.

7. The prepaid conversion device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The device also includes a human-computer interaction unit.

8. The prepaid conversion device according to claim 3, characterized in that, The protection circuit includes: a fuse and a circuit breaker connected in series in the control unit to melt or trip when the current is too high, thus cutting off the circuit; a diode connected in parallel at the power input terminal for reverse polarity protection; and a varistor and a transient suppression diode connected in parallel on the power or signal line for overvoltage protection.

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