Alternator Simulation Device Using Controlled Switching
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current simulation systems for testing equipment in the aeronautical field are costly, especially when multiple items require power supply, and existing solutions often require identical power systems to the real equipment, limiting cost-effectiveness and scalability.
Innovation Solution
A device for simulating an alternator that includes an inductive circuit RL, a current sensor to measure excitation current, and a controlled switch to apply voltage to the network, allowing for efficient simulation of alternator operation and interaction with control circuits, with a control module controlling the switch based on measured current thresholds.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If identical power supply systems to real equipment are used for simulation, then the simulation accuracy is improved, but the cost increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a simplified copy of the alternator system using a power supply unit (10) with controlled voltage output and a switching device (22) that replicates the essential electrical behavior of a real alternator without requiring an actual alternator. The control unit (20) simulates alternator control circuitry, providing a cost-effective model that maintains simulation fidelity for testing power distribution systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses parameter control to simulate alternator behavior, where the power supply unit's voltage and current parameters are dynamically adjusted by the control unit based on simulated excitation current measurements. This allows the system to replicate alternator electrical characteristics through parameter modulation rather than physical replication.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple real alternators are used to power multiple equipment items, then the testing capability is improved, but the cost and complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent designs a universal simulation system where a single power supply unit (10) with controllable output can replace multiple real alternators. The system can simulate different alternator configurations and power distribution scenarios through software control, enabling one piece of equipment to perform the testing function of multiple alternators while reducing overall system complexity.
3Measurement precision
If real alternators are used for simulation, then the electrical behavior accuracy is improved, but the operational expenses increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical alternator system with an electronic power supply and control system. The power supply unit (10) with its control unit (20) and switching device (22) electronically simulates alternator electrical behavior, eliminating the need for mechanical alternators and their associated operational costs while maintaining measurement precision through controlled electrical parameters.
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 reduces costs by enabling the use of simulated power supply systems that mimic real alternator behavior, allowing for effective testing of multiple equipment items with reduced reliance on actual power systems, thereby lowering operational expenses and increasing testing efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
an inductive circuit RL connected to an output of the control circuit 20 so as to receive an excitation current generated by the control circuit
Implementation Method 2
a current sensor located between the RL circuit and the connection of said RL circuit to the output of the control circuit, configured to measure the excitation current
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3
Figure 4~5
AI summary
The device (10) has a receiving circuit for receiving excitation current (Iexc) generated by a control circuit (20). A controlled switch (15) e.g. virtual switch, applies voltage to an electrical network e.g. electrical power center (30), and is controlled on the basis of the excitation current. A current sensor (13) measures the current, and a command module (14) controls the switch according to the measured current. The command module controls closing of the switch when the excitation current exceeds predetermined threshold. Independent claims are also included for the following: (1) a method of controlling an alternator simulating device (2) a simulation system comprising an excitation current determining module.