Auxiliary A/C Power Supply for High-Power Vending Machines
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional 110 volt A/C power sources often cannot meet the high power demands of vending machines like commercial microwaves and ice cream machines, requiring expensive and time-consuming electrical modifications to install 220 volt outlets, which may not be feasible in all locations.
Innovation Solution
An auxiliary A/C power supply system that uses a high-powered inverter and deep cycle batteries to provide start-up power, switching seamlessly to grid power once the machine is operational, allowing high-powered vending machines to operate from a single 110 volt outlet without modifying the electrical panel.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Power
If a high-powered vending machine is installed on a conventional 110 volt outlet, then the power supply capacity is insufficient to meet peak demand, but installing a 220 volt outlet requires expensive electrical modifications
Solution Approach 1:
The power supply system is segmented into two independent power sources: the existing 110 volt grid outlet and an auxiliary power supply unit with inverter and batteries. This segmentation allows the machine to access high power capacity without requiring modifications to the main electrical panel, as each power source operates independently and can be switched between as needed.
Solution Approach 2:
A power switch assembly acts as an intermediary device between the grid power outlet and the auxiliary power supply. This intermediary automatically detects power demands and switches between power sources, enabling the system to provide high power capacity during peak demand without requiring the installation of a 220 volt outlet or electrical panel modifications.
2Power
If electrical modifications are made to provide sufficient power, then the power demand can be met, but the installation time and complexity increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The auxiliary power supply unit, including inverter and battery bank, is pre-assembled and pre-configured as a complete module. This preliminary preparation allows the unit to be installed as a single component without requiring time-consuming electrical modifications to the building's infrastructure, significantly reducing installation time while still providing the necessary power demand capability.
3Ease of manufacture
If the machine operates solely on grid power, then the installation is simple, but the machine cannot meet peak power demands during start-up or operation
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically changes the power supply parameters by switching between 110 volt grid power and auxiliary power based on demand. During normal operation, the machine runs on simple grid power connection, but during peak demand periods such as start-up, the auxiliary power supply automatically engages to provide the necessary power surge, thus maintaining both installation simplicity and operational reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The power supply system is made dynamic through automatic detection and switching capabilities. The power switch assembly continuously monitors power demands and dynamically adjusts the power source configuration, transitioning between grid-only mode and hybrid mode as needed. This dynamic behavior ensures continuous reliable operation while maintaining the simplicity of the original grid connection.
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
Enables the installation of high-powered vending machines on conventional 110 volt outlets, reducing installation costs and time, and ensuring continuous operation without interruptions, as the system automatically detects and manages power demands.
Implementation Method 1
An auxiliary A/C power supply system uses a high-powered inverter and deep cycle batteries to provide start-up power
Implementation Method 2
The smart relay will automatically detect the current demand, and if in excess of the capability of grid power, will switch through the deep cycle battery bank and high powered inverter
Data Source
AI summary
An auxiliary A/C power supply system for use with a high power vending machine requiring more current at start up than is provided by a standard 110 volt, 15-16 amp service. The system includes an A/C controller including a microprocessor that selectively engages an inverter powered by a battery bank to provide auxiliary power on a cycle determined by the A/C controller according to the type of vending machine and according to environmental conditions such as ambient temperature, altitude and battery charge.