Branched electrical system
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing electrical power systems fail to efficiently provide simultaneous access to high and low voltage power to multiple users in various environments, particularly in high-density seating areas, due to voltage drop issues in low voltage DC systems.
Innovation Solution
A branched electrical system with a main line and multiple branch lines, incorporating DC power boosters and various types of electrical connectors, including USB and automotive connectors, to maintain consistent power delivery across extended lengths and multiple outlets, while optionally including audio signal transmission and weatherproofing features.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If low voltage DC electrical wiring is extended to reach distant locations, then access to power outlets is improved, but voltage drop increases causing power delivery issues
Solution Approach 1:
The electrical system is divided into multiple segments with power boosters distributed along the main line at specific intervals. Each booster segment independently compensates for voltage drop in its local section, allowing the overall system to extend over long distances while maintaining voltage stability in each segment.
Solution Approach 2:
Power boosters act as intermediary devices between the power source and distant outlets. These boosters receive power from the main line, boost the voltage level, and deliver it to branch lines, thereby mediating the voltage drop issue that would otherwise prevent reliable power delivery to distant locations.
2Ease of operation
If multiple branch lines are added to serve multiple users, then power accessibility is improved, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system is segmented into a hierarchical structure with one main line carrying power from the source, and multiple independent branch lines connecting to power boosters. This segmentation allows each branch to be independently configured and managed, simplifying the overall system architecture while serving multiple users simultaneously.
Solution Approach 2:
The power booster units serve multiple functions: they receive power from the main line, boost voltage to compensate for drops, distribute power to multiple branch lines, and provide electrical connections to various outlets. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate devices for each function, thereby reducing overall system complexity.
3Reliability
If power boosters are distributed along the main line, then voltage stability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple functions are merged into the power booster units: voltage boosting, power distribution to branches, and electrical connection provision. By combining these functions into integrated booster devices rather than using separate components for each function, the system achieves voltage stability while minimizing the increase in overall device complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The power boosters dynamically adjust electrical parameters (voltage and current) along the distribution line based on load conditions and distance from the source. This parameter adjustment capability allows the system to maintain voltage stability across varying conditions without requiring an excessively complex control system, as each booster independently adapts to local requirements.
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 system ensures reliable access to high and low voltage power for multiple users in high-density areas like stadiums and public transportation, extending the length of low voltage systems effectively and accommodating diverse power needs through modular and configurable designs.
Implementation Method 1
A DC electrical converter may be coupled between the power source and the first end of the main line and operable to transform a high voltage AC power input at the power source to a low voltage DC power output at the first end portion of the main line.
Implementation Method 2
To account for voltage drop along a length of DC-energized electrical wiring, one or more power boosters may be coupled along the electrical wiring
Data Source
AI summary
A branched electrical system is adapted for providing multiple users with access to high and/or low voltage electrical power in work areas or high density seating areas, such as stadium or theater seating, work rooms, lecture halls, and public transportation vehicles. The system includes a main line and a plurality of branch lines, each branch line having at least one high voltage or low voltage electrical receptacle that is accessible to a user located at the seating, such as for powering a portable electronic device. The branch lines may be coupled to the main line via a splice or other electrical-mechanical connection.