Dynamic AC Line Voltage Regulation with Fractionally Rated Switches
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional AC line voltage regulation methods suffer from slow response times, momentary load interruptions, and significant power losses, particularly due to the use of tapped auto-transformers and triodes, which result in coarse control and inefficiencies.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of a dynamic AC line voltage regulator using an AC/AC converter with fractionally rated switches and magnetics, along with an AC snubber for safe switching and a bypass switch for fail-safe operation, allowing for precise voltage control and energy saving tracking.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If a tapped auto-transformer with relays is used for voltage regulation, then the system is inexpensive and simple, but the response time is slow and load interruptions occur during transitions
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical relay-based switching system with an electronic thyristor-based voltage regulator. The thyristors enable continuous electronic control of voltage without mechanical contact, eliminating the slow response and load interruptions inherent in relay-based systems while maintaining cost-effectiveness through solid-state component usage.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention transitions from static tap-changing to dynamic continuous voltage control. The thyristor pair enables real-time adjustment of voltage levels by controlling the conduction angle, allowing the system to respond dynamically to load changes and voltage fluctuations without the discrete steps and interruptions of traditional tap-changers.
2Speed
If a triode or thyristor pair is used to switch windings, then the response time is faster, but the control is coarse and power losses increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent optimizes the switching parameters of the thyristor pair to minimize power losses. By precisely controlling the firing angle and conduction duration, the system achieves fine-grained voltage control that reduces unnecessary switching losses while maintaining fast response times. The continuous adjustability allows operation at optimal efficiency points.
Solution Approach 2:
The voltage regulator incorporates feedback control mechanisms that continuously monitor the output voltage and adjust the thyristor switching parameters accordingly. This closed-loop control ensures minimal power losses by adapting the switching strategy to actual load conditions and voltage requirements, preventing excessive switching and optimizing energy efficiency.
3Device complexity
If conventional voltage regulation methods are used, then the system is simple, but the voltage control precision is coarse
Solution Approach 1:
The invention implements dynamic continuous voltage control using thyristor phase-angle control, replacing the static discrete tap-changer approach. This enables smooth, continuous adjustment of voltage levels across the entire regulation range, providing fine control precision while maintaining relatively simple circuit topology and control logic.
Data Source
AI summary
Systems and methods for dynamic AC line voltage regulation are provided. A simple and cost-effective method for achieving AC line voltage regulation in AC systems including split-phase systems, of which the voltage for each voltage line may be regulated over a specified range, is provided. Buck and boost regulation is achieved for lowering or increasing the line voltage, respectively, with reference to the incoming grid voltage. Systems for dynamic AC line voltage regulation may comprise an AC/AC converter which uses fractionally rated switches and magnetics that handle only a fraction of the load current, resulting in lower costs. The use of an AC snubber further provides safe and robust switching of the main switching devices by eliminating failure prone switching sequences that are dependent on accurate assessment of voltage and/or current polarity for AC or bi-directional switches.