AC Voltage Isolation Circuit for Safe Power Delivery
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Solution Overview
Problem
Devices that use transformers to indicate safe AC power levels for operation consume unnecessary energy and increase costs due to continuous power consumption, even in sleep mode, and can cause damage from overheating when voltage is insufficient.
Innovation Solution
A system comprising a power supply, rectifying component, and filtering component that minimizes power consumption by isolating electrical components and converting AC to DC voltage, using a controller to deactivate signals when AC power is within a safe range, thereby preventing overheating and improper operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If transformers are used to indicate safe AC power levels, then devices can operate safely, but energy consumption increases and costs increase due to continuous power consumption
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the essential function of voltage detection from the continuous transformer operation by using a voltage detector that only activates when needed (when AC power is detected), separating the detection function from continuous power consumption
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses periodic voltage detection instead of continuous transformer operation, with the controller periodically checking voltage levels and activating components only when AC power is present and within safe ranges
2Reliability
If transformers are used to indicate safe AC power levels, then devices can operate safely, but costs increase due to continuous power consumption
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes the continuous operation requirement from transformers by using a simpler voltage detector circuit that can be activated periodically, reducing manufacturing costs while maintaining safety
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses inexpensive voltage detection components (resistors, capacitors, operational amplifiers) that can be activated temporarily only when needed, replacing expensive continuous-operation transformers
3Use of energy by moving object
If electrical components are not isolated, then power consumption is higher, but electrical components may overheat and sustain damage from insufficient voltage
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary voltage detection and evaluation before activating electrical components, ensuring that components are only powered when voltage levels are safe, preventing overheating before it occurs
Solution Approach 2:
The controller acts as an intermediary between the power source and electrical components, mediating power delivery by monitoring voltage levels and selectively activating components only when conditions are safe
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
The system effectively reduces energy consumption and costs while ensuring safe operation by isolating electrical components and converting AC to DC voltage, preventing damage from insufficient voltage and ensuring consistent device performance.
Implementation Method 1
a rectifying component (e.g., rectifying component 104) may convert the AC voltage into DC voltage
Implementation Method 2
a filtering component (e.g., filtering component 106) may smooth the rectified voltage
Data Source
AI summary
An example system includes a rectifying component to convert an alternating current (AC) signal into a direct current (DC) signal. The system also includes a filtering component. The filtering component determines that a plurality of AC cycle drops have occurred and will deactivate the AC signal in response to that determination. Furthermore, the system includes an isolating component. The isolating component consumes greater than a threshold level of power in one state and less than a threshold level of power in another state. The isolating component is operating in the state that consumes greater than a threshold level of power when the signal that indicates the AC voltage is at a level in which it may allow the device to operate safely and properly is deactivated.