Auto-regulated Motion Power System with Variable Frequency Alternator
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing systems face challenges in efficiently converting rotational energy into electrical energy, particularly at varying rotational speeds, and in providing high amperage AC power in portable applications, leading to inefficiencies and increased costs.
Innovation Solution
An auto-regulated motion power system (AMPS) comprising a three-phase variable frequency alternator coupled with an energy control module, including a switch mode rectifier and pulse width modulation controller, which converts variable frequency energy into stable AC power, capable of operating over a wide range of rotational speeds.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Power
If a standard stock alternator is used to provide AC power, then the system is simple and reliable, but it cannot provide high amperage power and requires significant engine revving
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by enabling the alternator to operate across a wide range of rotational speeds (RPM) rather than requiring a fixed high RPM. The variable speed capability allows the engine to operate at efficient lower RPM while the alternator dynamically adjusts to produce the required electrical power output.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the operational parameters of the alternator by allowing variable frequency and voltage output that can be regulated through electronic control. This enables high amperage output without requiring proportional increases in engine RPM, as the electrical parameters are dynamically adjusted to match load requirements.
2Stability of the object's composition
If a generator is configured to produce constant-frequency AC output, then the output is stable, but it requires a fixed RPM and reduction gears
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical speed reduction system (gears and governors) with an electronic control system. The alternator mechanically connects directly to the engine without reduction gears, and electronic regulation maintains stable AC output frequency and voltage despite variable engine RPM.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary electronic control system that decouples the mechanical rotation speed from the electrical output frequency. This intermediary layer converts variable frequency AC from the alternator into stable frequency AC output, eliminating the need for mechanical speed matching.
3Power
If the engine is revved to high RPM to provide sufficient power, then high amperage is available, but fuel consumption increases and carbon emissions rise
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically adjusts the alternator's electrical output to match actual power demands, allowing the engine to operate at lower, more efficient RPM. This dynamic adaptation eliminates the need for sustained high RPM operation, reducing fuel consumption and emissions while maintaining required power output.
Solution Approach 2:
The alternator system serves itself by automatically regulating its output based on electrical load requirements without requiring mechanical force from the engine. The electronic control system manages power delivery independently, allowing the engine to operate at optimal efficiency points rather than being forced into high-RPM operation.
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 AMPS system enables efficient power generation from various energy sources, reducing fuel consumption and carbon emissions by maintaining stable output power across a wide range of rotational inputs, and can be used in diverse applications including mobile, water, and wind energy systems.
Implementation Method 1
a three-phase variable frequency alternator having an input that is attachable to a prime mover (a source of power)... convert variable frequency energy to useful, clean, constant, AC power
Implementation Method 2
The energy control module or ECM typically has a three-phase switch mode rectifier ("SMR") that accepts variable AC voltages (for example, voltages from 120 to 600 volts) from the alternator and outputs a constant predetermined DC voltage
Implementation Method 3
The alternator has at least one set of windings that permit application of a variable magnetic field inside the alternator... This current flow (or lack thereof) will increase and decrease the magnetic field strength inside the alternator
Data Source
AI summary
An auto-regulated motion power system apparatus that may be used to generate usable electricity from disparate energy sources includes a combination of a variable frequency alternator driven by a primary mover and coupled to a load. An energy control module includes a closed-loop feedback system coupled to a pulse width modulation controller and a switch mode rectifier. The alternator has a modulated control signal input having the ability to vary in frequency and voltage with an output having a controlled voltage and varying frequency. The switch mode rectifier accepts variable AC voltages from the alternator and outputs a constant predetermined DC voltage both to one side of the windings of the alternator and to a first side of a high frequency switch. An output on the pulse width modulation generator is connected to a switch control so that when the switch is closed, current flows through the windings of the alternator and when the switch is open, no current flows through the windings. This modulation of current flow (or lack thereof) regulates the magnetic field strength inside the alternator to produce a stable voltage over a wide range of RPMs.