Actuator Charge Control via Grouped Priority Scheduling
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing electric actuators face challenges in optimizing current capacity and charge time when multiple actuators are connected to a single power supply, leading to high power consumption and long charge times due to simultaneous charging, which requires large current breakers and sequential charging, respectively.
Innovation Solution
A charge controlling system that divides electric actuators into groups based on priority, allowing for staggered charging to manage current capacity and time, with a host device transmitting charge start commands to each group to optimize the total current and time required, ensuring that only a maximum number of actuators are charged simultaneously and prioritizing higher-priority ones.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of time
If all electric actuators are charged simultaneously when electric power is turned on, then charge time is reduced, but a relatively large charge current flows requiring a breaker with large current capacity
Solution Approach 1:
The host device divides the plurality of electric actuators into multiple groups and charges each group sequentially rather than simultaneously. This segmentation approach limits the total charge current to a manageable level while distributing the charging process over time, thus resolving the contradiction between reducing charge time and limiting current capacity requirements.
Solution Approach 2:
The charging process is implemented as periodic action by alternating between charging different groups of actuators. The host device transmits charge start commands to different groups in sequence, creating a periodic charging pattern that controls peak current while maintaining overall charging efficiency.
2Power
If electric actuators are charged in sequence to reduce current capacity requirements, then charge time becomes long
Solution Approach 1:
By segmenting actuators into multiple groups that can be charged in parallel within each time slot, the system achieves a balanced approach. Multiple groups are charged simultaneously during each charging phase, reducing total charge time compared to strictly sequential charging, while still limiting the number of actuators charged at any moment to control current capacity.
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically adjusts the charging schedule by considering the number of actuators, their priority levels, and charge states. The host device optimizes the grouping and timing of charge commands in real-time, creating a flexible charging strategy that balances current capacity constraints with total charge time optimization.
3Device complexity
If a spring return actuator uses a spring to forcibly operate a valve to fully closing direction during interruption of electric service, then the mechanism is simple, but power consumption is large because a motor for generating large torque is necessary
Solution Approach 1:
The invention replaces the mechanical spring system with an electrical energy storage system (capacitor). Instead of using a spring that requires a high-torque motor to wind, the system uses a capacitor that can be charged during normal operation and discharged during power interruption to drive the valve, significantly reducing the motor size and power consumption.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs preliminary action by charging the capacitor during normal powered operation. This stored electrical energy is then available for immediate use during power interruption, eliminating the need for a large motor to provide torque during emergency operation, thus reducing overall power consumption requirements.
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
This approach reduces the required current capacity of the power supply system, minimizes total charge time, and allows for charging according to priority, eliminating the need for high-torque motors and mechanisms like clutches and brakes, thus reducing power consumption and environmental impact.
Implementation Method 1
an electricity storing portion (2) that stores electric energy
Implementation Method 2
a charging portion (3) that charges the electricity storing portion (2) when the actuator is energized
Data Source
AI summary
When interruption of electric service occurs, each of a number of electric actuators forcibly drives a motor using electric energy stored in an electricity storing portion and returns a valve to a predetermined opening position. When receiving a charge start command from a host device, each of the electric actuators starts the charging of the electricity storing portion. The host device divides the electric actuators into groups according to predetermined priority of charging and transmits charge start commands to the electric actuators for each of the groups in order of the priority.