Generator Output Circuit Control for Fast Overload Prevention

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Solution Overview

Problem

Generators, such as gasoline generators, face challenges in managing overload conditions when performing multiple outputs, with existing solutions like time-sharing output resulting in low utilization and coordinated power control being slow in response.

Innovation Solution

The method involves at least two output circuits on the generator's output end, with one circuit designated as a target controlled circuit. By obtaining and calculating various voltage and current values, a drive signal is generated to regulate the output power of the target controlled circuit, preventing overload without relying on additional communication between output circuits.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If time-sharing output is used to avoid overload, then overload is prevented, but generator utilization is reduced

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveoverload preventionVSAvoidgenerator utilization
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements continuous power regulation by dynamically adjusting the output power of the target controlled circuit based on real-time monitoring of generator output power. This allows the generator to continuously operate within safe limits while maximizing utilization, eliminating the need for time-sharing interruptions. The control unit continuously calculates the difference between current and maximum output power, and adjusts the target controlled circuit accordingly to maintain continuous useful action.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #20Continuity of useful action

2Productivity

If coordinated power control through communication is used, then power distribution is optimized, but response speed is reduced

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvepower distribution optimizationVSAvoidcircuit response speed
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSSpeed

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements a self-service control mechanism where the target controlled circuit autonomously adjusts its output power based on direct monitoring of generator parameters. The control unit within the target controlled circuit independently calculates the power difference and generates adjustment signals without requiring communication with other circuits. This eliminates communication delays while achieving optimized power distribution through real-time feedback control.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

3Adaptability or versatility

If additional communication circuits are added for coordinated control, then power management capability is improved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvepower management capabilityVSAvoidcircuit structure
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent merges the control function into the existing target controlled circuit by integrating a control unit that directly monitors generator output power and automatically adjusts its own output. This combines the monitoring and control functions within a single circuit, eliminating the need for separate communication circuits between multiple output paths. The control unit is configured to obtain generator output power, calculate the difference from maximum power, and generate adjustment signals, all within the target controlled circuit itself.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Data Source

PatentUS12278588B2Method and apparatus for controlling output power of generator, and generator system
Publication Date: 2025.04.15 ECOFLOW INC
  • US12278588B2 patent drawing
  • US12278588B2 patent drawing
  • US12278588B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A method for controlling an output power of a generator is provided. A target control variable used for controlling a target controlled circuit can be determined according to an output voltage value of the generator, an output current value of the target controlled circuit, an output voltage value of the target controlled circuit, an overload voltage reference value of the generator, an output voltage reference value of the target controlled circuit, and an output current reference value of the target controlled circuit, and a corresponding drive signal is generated according to the target control variable, to regulate an output power of the target controlled circuit.