Electric Module Measurement Using Component Decoupling
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing power supply units face challenges in measuring the aging state of components, particularly capacitors, during operation without affecting the unit's function, behavior, or power consumption, and existing methods either disrupt the voltage and current behavior or are costly.
Innovation Solution
An electrical assembly with a measuring circuit that allows a first component to be decoupled and replaced by a structurally identical or equivalent second component, using switches and a processor to measure properties without influencing the operation, using a defined measurement environment and precharging to avoid voltage and current changes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of time
If a measuring circuit is coupled into the electrical assembly during operation to measure component properties, then measurement can be performed during operation, but the function, behavior and power consumption of the electrical assembly are affected
Solution Approach 1:
The first component is decoupled from the working circuit during measurement, extracting it from the operational system. This allows measurement without affecting the overall electrical assembly function, as the component is isolated from the circuit while being measured by the measuring circuit.
Solution Approach 2:
A second component of the same type is provided as a replacement. When the first component is decoupled for measurement, the second component takes over its function in the working circuit. This copying approach ensures continuous operation while enabling measurement of the first component without disruption.
2Measurement precision
If the nominal voltage is increased for diagnostic measurement of a capacitor, then voltage swings during measurement are prevented, but the voltage and current behavior of the circuit is fundamentally altered
Solution Approach 1:
The measuring circuit is configured to provide a defined nominal voltage specifically for the measurement environment, while the working circuit maintains its original operational voltage. This local quality approach allows precise measurement without altering the overall circuit behavior, as the voltage definition is localized to the measurement path rather than affecting the entire system.
3Measurement precision
If a component is taken out of operation for measurement, then a defined measurement environment independent of the electrical assembly is created, but the electrical assembly must operate with replacement components
Solution Approach 1:
A second component of the same type is provided as an identical copy. When the first component is removed for measurement, the second component serves as a functional replacement, maintaining the electrical assembly's operation. This copying strategy enables precise measurement in an isolated environment while preserving system functionality through the substitute component.
Data Source
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AI summary
The present invention relates to an electrical subassembly comprising means for connecting a measuring circuit or the measuring circuit, an operating circuit, a first component and at least one second component of the same type, in particular a structurally identical second component, wherein both the first component and the second component are each associated with a switch which can be used to couple or decouple the first and second components to or from the operating circuit independently of one another. The present invention also relates to a method for measuring a property of the first component of the electrical subassembly and to a method for operating the electrical subassembly.