Alternator Load Balancing via Field Voltage Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
In vehicle applications, multiple alternators often supply uneven electrical loads, leading to instability and potential system failure due to unbalanced duty cycles and output capacities.
Innovation Solution
A control module is used to monitor and balance the field signals of multiple dynamoelectric machines, adjusting their field voltages to ensure equal load distribution among alternators, thereby achieving balanced outputs and stable operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Power
If multiple alternators are used to supply high electrical loads, then the power capacity is sufficient, but the load distribution becomes unbalanced causing instability and potential failure
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a control module that continuously monitors the output of each alternator and adjusts their operation based on real-time feedback. The control module receives signals from each alternator indicating their current load and output status, then dynamically adjusts the field current or excitation of individual alternators to achieve balanced load distribution. This closed-loop feedback mechanism ensures that all alternators operate at optimal levels, preventing any single unit from being overloaded while maintaining sufficient total power capacity.
2Productivity
If one alternator operates at full capacity while others operate at lower capacity, then maximum power output is achieved, but the system becomes susceptible to failure
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs dynamic load sharing control where the operational parameters of each alternator are continuously adjusted based on real-time system conditions. Rather than static allocation, the control module dynamically modifies field current, excitation levels, or output voltage of individual alternators according to their actual load conditions, temperature, and operational status. This dynamic adjustment ensures that power output is optimized while distributing stress evenly across all units, preventing any single alternator from operating at maximum capacity continuously.
3Power
If multiple alternators supply uneven loads, then individual alternator capacity is utilized, but the system becomes unstable and unreliable
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes key operational parameters such as field current, excitation voltage, and output frequency of individual alternators to achieve balanced load distribution. The control module monitors parameters like output voltage, current, and phase angle from each alternator, then adjusts their field current or excitation levels to modify their output characteristics. By dynamically changing these parameters, the system maintains stable operation with even load distribution while fully utilizing the capacity of all alternators.
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 solution ensures that alternators share loads evenly, maintaining system stability and reliability by equalizing their outputs and duty cycles, regardless of their individual capacities, thus preventing failures.
Implementation Method 1
Dynamoelectric machines, such as generators and alternators, are widespread. These machines usually include a stationary member, known as a 'stator,' and a rotating member, known as a 'rotor,' which turns in relation to the stationary member. The rotor (sometimes referred to as an 'armature') usually rotates within the stator (or 'field'), which produces a rotating magnetic field.
Data Source
AI summary
Systems and methods for adjusting outputs of dynamoelectric devices, such as alternators, are provided. The outputs of the dynamoelectric devices may be balanced to facilitate load sharing among the devices. The outputs may be balanced by monitoring field signals associated with the dynamoelectric devices and controlling the field voltages of the devices. The outputs may also be adjusted to supply the load in dissimilar proportions.