Adaptable Input Phase Switching for AC Grid Compatibility
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing power supply units require multiple hardware variants to accommodate different AC power grid types worldwide, leading to increased logistical, development, and production efforts due to the need for manual configuration or hardware exchanges.
Innovation Solution
A power supply unit with a controllable switching arrangement that allows for adaptable connection of converters to various AC power grids without hardware changes, using electronically controlled switches and a programmable controller to establish suitable connections between input and output terminals.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple hardware variants are provided for different AC grid types, then the power supply unit can be operated at different AC grid types, but the number of country or region specific variants increases leading to increased logistical, development, and production efforts
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the dynamics principle by replacing static hardware configurations with dynamic, electronically controlled switching. The switching arrangement allows the power supply unit to adapt its input configuration electronically rather than requiring physical hardware changes. This enables a single hardware variant to dynamically reconfigure itself to match different AC grid types (single-phase, three-phase, different voltages) through controlled switching of the converters' connections to input terminals, thereby achieving high adaptability without increasing hardware variant complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies parameter changes by using a controllable switching arrangement that can alter the electrical connection parameters between converters and input terminals. By changing the switching state, the system adapts to different grid parameters (phase configuration, voltage levels) without requiring different hardware variants. This allows a single power supply unit to operate across multiple AC grid types by electronically adjusting its input configuration rather than physically changing hardware components.
2Adaptability or versatility
If manual configuration or hardware exchange is used to adapt to different AC grid types, then the power supply unit can be operated at different AC grid types, but the ease of operation deteriorates due to manual intervention requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies self-service by enabling the power supply unit to automatically detect and adapt to different AC grid types without manual intervention. The control unit monitors the input power characteristics and autonomously configures the switching arrangement to match the detected grid type. This self-configuration capability eliminates the need for users to manually reconfigure hardware or perform complex setup procedures, thereby maintaining high adaptability while significantly improving ease of operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies feedback by implementing a control unit that continuously monitors the AC grid input characteristics and uses this information to automatically adjust the switching arrangement. The system receives feedback about the grid type (single-phase, three-phase, voltage levels) and responds by reconfiguring the converter connections accordingly. This closed-loop control enables automatic adaptation to different AC grid types, eliminating manual configuration requirements while maintaining full compatibility across regions.
3Adaptability or versatility
If different hardware variants are provided for different regions, then the power supply unit can be operated at different AC grid types, but the productivity deteriorates due to increased development and production efforts
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies universality by designing a single power supply unit that can perform multiple functions across different AC grid types. Instead of producing separate hardware variants for different regions, the invention creates one universal platform with electronically controllable switching capability. This universal design allows the same hardware to be deployed worldwide, adapting to local grid specifications through software/control logic rather than hardware changes, thereby maintaining full regional compatibility while dramatically improving development and production efficiency.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies mechanics substitution by replacing mechanical hardware configuration changes with electronic control. Rather than physically assembling different hardware variants for different markets, the system uses electronic switching and control logic to achieve the same adaptability. This substitution of mechanical diversity with electronic flexibility eliminates the need for multiple hardware development cycles and production lines, thereby maintaining full adaptability to different AC grid types while significantly improving productivity in development and manufacturing.
Data Source
AI summary
A power supply unit (1) that is to be connected to different types of power supply networks includes an input (2) to receive AC power from the power supply network and an output (3) for providing power to an electrical device. The electrical device may for example be a computer, a telecom infrastructure device, inductive cooking/heating systems or an on-board charger of an electrical automotive vehicle. The power supply unit (1) includes at least two converters (4) that are connected between the inputs (2) and the output (3) and it further includes a controllable switching arrangement (5). The switching arrangement (5) includes a number of controllable switches (6) to controllably connect the converters (4) in different configurations to the input (2) and therefore also controllably to different supply lines of the power supply network.