Actuator Power Supply Standby Energy Elimination
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing actuator systems for solar protection or screening in buildings face significant standby energy consumption due to permanently powered electronic components, leading to inefficiencies when multiple actuators are installed, as previous solutions either rely on separate power sources or incomplete disconnection from the mains, resulting in false energy savings.
Innovation Solution
A power supply device that completely disconnects the actuator from the electrical network in standby mode, utilizing a series coupling means with a storage element like a supercapacitor or rechargeable battery, which is efficiently charged during operation and can autonomously power the device for extended periods, minimizing energy draw from the mains.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the actuator uses a permanently powered electronic command receiver, then the actuator can receive commands and operate, but the standby energy consumption becomes significant
Solution Approach 1:
The power supply configuration dynamically switches between two states: during operation, the actuator is connected to the AC mains for full power; during standby, the actuator disconnects from mains and operates on stored energy from the storage element. This dynamic reconfiguration allows the electronic command receiver to remain functional while eliminating continuous energy consumption.
Solution Approach 2:
The power supply system is segmented into two independent power paths: an AC mains path for active operation and a storage element path for standby mode. The switching mechanism separates these paths, allowing the actuator to use only the necessary power source at any given time, thereby eliminating redundant energy consumption.
2Use of energy by moving object
If the actuator completely disconnects from the mains in standby mode, then standby energy consumption is eliminated, but the actuator cannot be recharged during standby
Solution Approach 1:
The power supply operates in periodic cycles: during active operation, the actuator draws power from AC mains and simultaneously charges the storage element; during standby, it disconnects from mains and draws power from the storage element. This periodic charging during operation ensures the storage element is replenished without requiring mains connection during standby.
Solution Approach 2:
The storage element is charged in advance during operation phases before standby is needed. This preliminary charging action ensures that sufficient energy is stored to sustain the actuator throughout the entire standby period, eliminating the need for mains connection during standby while maintaining reliability.
3Ease of operation
If a series tap is used to supply voltage to electronic switches, then the electronic switches can be powered at a distance, but a current is continuously drawn from the mains
Solution Approach 1:
The storage element acts as an intermediary power source between the actuator and the AC mains. During standby, it mediates by providing power locally without requiring a continuous connection to the mains, thereby eliminating continuous current draw while maintaining the ability to power electronic switches remotely.
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 solution significantly reduces standby energy consumption by ensuring the actuator is fully disconnected from the network during idle times, allowing for efficient recharging and maintaining functionality during extended periods without additional energy draw, thus optimizing overall energy efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
A power supply device that completely disconnects the actuator from the electrical network in standby mode, utilizing a series coupling means with a storage element like a supercapacitor or rechargeable battery
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3A~4
AI summary
The invention relates to a power supply unit (PSU) for powering from the mains (10) an actuator (100) for controlling a mobile home automation screen (200) and including an electric motor (30), a means (60) for receiving instructions and an energy storage means (75) for powering the instruction reception means in a standby state of the actuator, characterised in that no current is absorbed from the mains during the standby mode and in that the power supply unit comprises a serial coupling means (SCM) for recharging the storage means when a current is absorbed from the mains through said coupling means, and a mains detection system (ASM) capable of initiating the charge of the storage means upon a first occurrence of the mains voltage on said power supply unit.