AC-DC Power Supply with Solar Integration and Inversion
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing power supply devices face inefficiencies in converting and using alternative energy sources like solar cells, as they often require additional converters, leading to power loss and limited direct DC power utilization, especially in appliances requiring AC or DC power.
Innovation Solution
An AC-DC switching mode power supply (SMPS) device that uses a combination of a capacitor, switches, and a rechargeable battery to convert and supply both AC and DC power efficiently, minimizing power loss by utilizing solar cell power and storing energy for later use.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If AC power is converted to DC power or DC power is converted to AC power using converters or inverters, then power can be supplied to different types of loads, but switching loss causes power conversion loss
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of converting AC to DC and then DC to AC through multiple conversion stages, the patent inverts the approach by directly supplying DC power from solar cells to DC loads and using an inverter only when AC power is needed. This reversal of the conventional conversion sequence eliminates unnecessary double conversion and reduces overall power loss.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent extracts and eliminates the redundant AC-to-DC converter component from the system. By directly connecting solar cells to DC loads and only using an inverter for AC power needs, the system removes the intermediate conversion stage that causes switching loss, while still maintaining the ability to supply both AC and DC power to different loads.
2Adaptability or versatility
If solar cell power is used to charge a battery and then converted to AC via an inverter, then AC power can be supplied during daytime, but power conversion loss occurs and system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The battery serves multiple functions in the system: it stores excess solar energy, provides DC power directly to DC loads, and can be converted to AC power through the inverter when needed. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate storage and conversion systems, reducing overall system complexity while maintaining AC power supply capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically adjusts its power supply configuration based on real-time conditions. During daytime when solar power is available, it directly supplies DC power to DC loads. When AC power is needed, it activates the inverter. This dynamic adaptation allows the system to maintain AC supply capability without permanently maintaining complex conversion infrastructure.
3Adaptability or versatility
If normal power supply is used with separate AC and DC conversion systems, then both AC and DC loads can be powered, but additional wiring and converters are required
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the AC and DC power supply systems into a unified architecture where solar cells directly supply DC power to DC loads, and the same DC power source is converted to AC only when needed through a single inverter. This consolidation eliminates the need for separate AC-to-DC and DC-to-AC conversion systems and their associated wiring, reducing overall system complexity while maintaining dual power supply capability.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Enables simultaneous and efficient supply of AC and DC power, reducing conversion losses and allowing for effective use of solar energy, even during power failures, while maintaining stability and functionality of electrical appliances.
Implementation Method 1
a capacitor, switches and a rechargeable battery connected in parallel between a neutral wire and a ground wire of the normal power supply to which the normal power is applied, are connected in parallel between a conversion neutral wire and the ground wire
Implementation Method 2
a rechargeable battery connected in parallel between a neutral wire and a ground wire of the normal power supply to which the normal power is applied
Data Source
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AI summary
Provided is an alternating current (AC) and direct current (DC) power supply device in which normal power and power of a solar cell is used to supply not only AC power but also DC power, particularly, power of a solar cell is first supplied as DC power or is charged in a battery, and after battery charging, residual power is converted to AC power via an inverter so as to replace normal AC power or to transmit AC power to the outside. Accordingly, an SMPS power supply method in which AC and DC power are supplied at the same time may be provided, and moreover, power of a solar cell may be effectively used. As AC power and DC power may be supplied based on normal power, and DC power of a solar cell may be charged in a battery or converted to AC power and supplied, the convenience of supplying AC power and DC power at the same time may be provided, and loss due to conversion between AC and DC power may be minimized. In addition, the use of environment-friendly alternative energy may be facilitated, and power may be efficiently used since power is charged or transmitted to required places so that power may be supplied even in an emergency.