External Power Connector Layout for Safe Vehicle Maintenance Charging
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing power supply systems for moving bodies, such as overhead transport vehicles, face challenges in maintaining efficient and safe power transfer during maintenance, as disconnecting from feeder lines can lead to unsafe residual charge discharge when connecting external power supplies.
Innovation Solution
A power supply apparatus with a pickup coil, power receiver, capacitor, and circuit protector configuration that allows safe connection of an external power supply without discharging residual capacitor charge, ensuring safety and efficiency during maintenance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of repair
If the moving body is separated from the feeder lines for maintenance, then the moving body can undergo inspection or repair, but the moving body cannot receive power from the feeder lines
Solution Approach 1:
The power supply system is segmented into two independent power sources: the feeder lines for normal operation and an external power supply for maintenance. This segmentation allows the moving body to switch between power sources based on operational status, enabling maintenance without power interruption.
Solution Approach 2:
An external power supply connector serves as an intermediary interface between the external power supply and the moving body's internal circuitry. This connector includes a protector that mediates the connection, preventing direct contact between the external power supply and the capacitor to avoid harmful discharge currents.
2Ease of operation
If the external power supply is connected to the moving body without discharging the capacitor first, then the connection process is simplified, but a large current may suddenly flow into the connector posing safety risks
Solution Approach 1:
The protector is pre-installed in the external power supply connector to automatically prevent harmful discharge currents before connection occurs. This preliminary protective measure eliminates the need for manual capacitor discharge operations, allowing safe direct connection without preliminary discharge steps.
Solution Approach 2:
The protector acts as an intermediary safety device between the external power supply and the capacitor. It selectively blocks harmful discharge currents while allowing normal charging currents to pass, enabling safe connection without requiring manual discharge procedures.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the external power supply connector is provided between the protector and the electrical load, then safe power supply from external sources is enabled, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The external power supply connector integrates multiple functions into a single component: it provides the power supply interface, incorporates the protector for safety, and maintains compatibility with the existing internal circuitry. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate components and simplifies the overall system architecture.
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
Enhances work efficiency and safety by preventing large currents from flowing into external power supplies when connecting them to vehicles, even when residual charges are present.
Implementation Method 1
a pickup coil configured to generate induced electromotive force by an alternating current flowing into the feeder line
Data Source
AI summary
A power supply apparatus mounted in a moving body includes: a pickup coil configured to generate induced electromotive force by an AC current flowing through a feeder line arranged along a moving route of the moving body; a power receiver configured to convert an AC power into a DC power; a capacitor connected to the output side of the power receiver; a circuit protector provided between the power receiver and the capacitor, and an electrical load; and an external power supply connector provided to allow connection of a DC external power supply to a first node between the circuit protector and the electrical load.