Direct DC Energy Storage Switching for Universal AC Loads
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing infrastructure for connecting direct-current (DC) power sources, such as batteries or solar panels, to alternating-current (AC) loads is costly and inefficient due to the use of DC-to-AC converters, which add significant weight, cost, and require cooling systems.
Innovation Solution
A direct-current power source configured to power universal AC loads without a DC/AC converter, utilizing an energy storage device with an unregulated battery and a low-frequency switching mechanism to efficiently supply power to AC loads, reducing volume and weight by up to five and three times respectively compared to conventional systems.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a DC-to-AC converter (inverter) is used to connect DC power sources to AC loads, then the conversion function is achieved, but the system cost, weight, and volume increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts and eliminates the DC-to-AC converter (inverter) from the system by directly connecting the DC power source terminals to the AC load terminals. This removal of the intermediate conversion device reduces system weight, volume, and cost while maintaining the essential function of powering AC loads from DC sources through direct current flow.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a universal power connection system where a single DC power source can directly power various AC loads without requiring conversion. The system uses universal terminals that can accommodate different AC load types and configurations, eliminating the need for specialized inverters for each application.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a DC-to-AC converter (inverter) is used to connect DC power sources to AC loads, then the conversion function is achieved, but the system cost increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes the expensive DC-to-AC converter component from the system architecture. By eliminating this high-cost intermediate device, the overall system cost is dramatically reduced while the essential functionality of powering AC loads from DC sources is maintained through direct terminal connections.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs simple, inexpensive terminal connections instead of complex, expensive inverter systems. The solution uses basic conductive terminals and wiring that are far cheaper than commercial inverters, making the system economically viable for widespread adoption.
3Adaptability or versatility
If a DC-to-AC converter (inverter) is used to connect DC power sources to AC loads, then the conversion function is achieved, but the efficiency decreases to 85-90% requiring larger battery capacity
Solution Approach 1:
The patent eliminates the energy-lossy DC-to-AC converter from the system. By removing this intermediate conversion stage that operates at 85-90% efficiency, the system achieves near-100% energy transfer efficiency through direct connections, significantly reducing energy losses and the required battery capacity.
4Adaptability or versatility
If a DC-to-AC converter (inverter) is used to connect DC power sources to AC loads, then the conversion function is achieved, but significant heat sinks and cooling fans are required
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes the heat-generating DC-to-AC converter from the system. Without the intermediate conversion process that generates significant heat requiring cooling systems, the direct connection architecture eliminates thermal management requirements, simplifying the system design and reducing component count.
Data Source
AI summary
A method to connect a direct current power (DC) source to a universal alternating current (AC) load can include an energy storage device configured to output a fixed voltage in a range of 84-135 volts (for 120 volt based systems) or 180-264 volts (for a 230 volt based systems). The universal AC load has input comprising a diode bridge followed by a storage capacitor. The unregulated DC source can be connected to the universal AC load by a switch that is turned on (closed) and off (open) with a low-frequency signal (e.g., 90 and 135 Hz) and a duty cycle between 80% and 98%. A sensor and inductor can be added to protect from excessive currents.