Alternator Regulator Customization via Programming Interface
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing alternator regulators lack the ability to be fully customized for specific operational environments, limiting their adaptability and requiring complete reprogramming to implement new regulation laws.
Innovation Solution
A method allowing alternator regulators to be customized through a programming interface by inputting coordinates of regulation law points or the law itself, enabling modification of setpoints based on various input variables without full reprogramming, using a processor to generate control signals according to user-defined regulation laws.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If conventional alternator regulators use fixed regulation modes with predefined coefficients, then the regulator structure remains simple and reliable, but the adaptability to different operational environments is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic regulation laws where the setpoint varies as a function of operating conditions (frequency, temperature, load). Instead of fixed coefficients, the system uses variable parameters that adapt in real-time based on measured conditions, allowing the same hardware to handle multiple operational scenarios without structural changes
Solution Approach 2:
The invention changes the regulatory parameters (coefficients, setpoints, curves) through software configuration rather than hardware modification. The regulator can load different parameter sets based on operating mode, enabling adaptability to various environments by simply changing numerical values rather than reconfiguring the physical structure
2Adaptability or versatility
If complete reprogramming is required to implement new regulation laws, then the regulator maintains structural integrity, but the time and complexity of customization increases
Solution Approach 1:
The regulation law is segmented into separate configurable parameters (coefficients, setpoints, curves) that can be independently modified. This allows partial customization where only the necessary parameters are changed rather than reprogramming the entire regulator, significantly reducing customization time while maintaining system integrity
Solution Approach 2:
The regulator includes pre-configured parameter sets and regulation laws that can be selected and activated based on the operational mode. This preliminary preparation allows quick switching between different regulation strategies without requiring time-consuming customization for each scenario
3Adaptability or versatility
If only coefficient values can be modified in predefined regulation modes, then the regulator remains simple to operate, but the ability to create custom regulation laws is restricted
Solution Approach 1:
The regulator is designed with a universal parameter structure that can accommodate multiple types of regulation laws (droop, line voltage dip compensation, reactive differential, underspeed) using the same configurable parameters. This multi-functionality allows operators to implement custom regulation laws without learning different operational procedures for each type, maintaining ease of operation while increasing flexibility
Data Source
AI summary
A method for customizing operation of an alternator regulator including at least one processor executing a program governing its operation. The regulator receives input signals and acts on output signals according to at least one control law. The control law is implemented in the regulator by a programming interface by inputting at least coordinates (x, f(x)) of at least two points of the law.