Power Factor Correction via Networked Breaker Mode Data
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional power factor controllers for dynamic power factor correction are expensive and require manual user interaction, failing to efficiently manage variable inductive loads in electronic devices.
Innovation Solution
A power management system that determines the operating mode of devices and allocates power from a capacitor bank or battery to reduce reactive power, improving efficiency by dynamically adjusting capacitance based on device identification and operating mode data.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional power factor controllers actively monitor inductance on a breaker, then power factor correction can be achieved, but the controller becomes very expensive
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a communication network as an intermediary between the breaker and the power factor controller. The breaker includes a communication interface that transmits operating mode information to the controller over the network, eliminating the need for expensive direct inductance monitoring hardware in the controller while maintaining accurate power factor correction capability
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the traditional mechanical/electrical inductance monitoring system with a communication-based system. Instead of using complex hardware to directly measure inductance, the system uses digital communication to transmit operating mode data from the breaker to the controller, substituting physical measurement with information exchange
2Device complexity
If simple power factor controllers are used, then cost is reduced, but manual user interaction is required to set the PFC
Solution Approach 1:
The power factor controller automatically determines the operating mode of the breaker by receiving communication signals from the breaker itself. The controller uses this information to automatically adjust power factor correction settings without requiring manual user input, enabling the system to configure itself based on real-time breaker status
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements a feedback loop where the breaker continuously communicates its operating mode to the power factor controller, which then automatically adjusts its operation accordingly. This closed-loop control eliminates manual configuration while keeping the controller simple and cost-effective
3Loss of energy
If dynamic power factor correction is implemented for variable inductive loads, then system efficiency improves, but the system becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic power factor correction by enabling the controller to receive real-time operating mode information from the breaker through communication signals. The controller dynamically adjusts power factor correction based on the current operating mode, allowing the system to adapt to variable inductive loads while using a relatively simple architecture
Solution Approach 2:
The breaker is designed with multi-functionality, serving both as a circuit protection device and as a source of operating mode information for power factor correction. By integrating communication capabilities into the breaker, the system achieves dynamic control without adding separate sensing hardware, reducing overall system complexity
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 approach reduces the actual power required to support devices, decreases energy inefficiency, and lowers costs by eliminating the need for costly active power analysis, thereby enhancing system efficiency and reducing power demands.
Implementation Method 1
The power source may comprise a capacitor bank or battery to allocate power to the system
Data Source
AI summary
Systems and methods are described for power management. A device may send an indication of an operating mode. The device may comprise a household appliance or other electronic device. A power load associated with the operating mode of the device may be determined based on the operating mode and system information associated with the device. The operating mode may indicate whether the device is going online or entering a mode requiring an increased or decreased power load. The system information may indicate operating mode data comprising power load data and information to enable power factor correction of the system. An instruction to cause an allocation of power from a power source may be sent. The power source may comprise a capacitor bank or battery to allocate power to the system. The power allocated to the system may enable power factor correction of the system and improve efficiency in the system.