Generator Conductor Current Measurement via Voltage Drop
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional generators rely on external sensors to measure and control output current, which are prone to failure due to shock and vibration, and introduce additional size and weight, while lacking comprehensive control over output current in relation to vehicle electrical and mechanical systems.
Innovation Solution
Incorporating a process-controlled conductor within the generator to measure and control total output current, using its electrical potential and temperature compensation to limit or cease output current based on predetermined values, and integrating with other system parameters for comprehensive control.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If external sensors are used to measure generator output current, then measurement can be achieved, but reliability deteriorates due to shock and vibration causing sensor failure
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the current measurement function with the existing internal conductor that is already part of the generator structure. The conductor serves dual purposes: carrying electrical current and providing the measurement signal through its voltage drop, eliminating the need for separate external sensors and improving reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The generator's own internal conductor provides the measurement capability without requiring external sensing components. The conductor's inherent electrical properties (voltage drop under load) are utilized for measurement, making the system self-sufficient and more reliable in harsh environments.
2Measurement precision
If external sensors are used to measure generator output current, then current measurement is achieved, but device complexity and size increase
Solution Approach 1:
The measurement function is combined with the existing conductor structure, eliminating the need for separate external sensors, wiring, and associated mounting hardware. This reduces overall system complexity and component count while maintaining measurement capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The internal conductor performs multiple functions: it carries the electrical current through the generator and simultaneously serves as the measurement element. This multi-functionality reduces the need for dedicated measurement components, simplifying the overall system.
3Measurement precision
If external sensors are used to measure generator output current, then measurement capability is provided, but weight increases
Solution Approach 1:
The generator's existing conductor structure provides the measurement capability without requiring additional external sensing components. Since the conductor is already present and necessary for electrical current flow, no additional weight is added for measurement purposes.
Solution Approach 2:
The measurement function is integrated into the existing conductor, eliminating the need for separate external sensors and their associated mounting structures, brackets, and wiring, thereby avoiding additional weight.
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
This approach allows for accurate, efficient, and economical measurement and control of generator output current without external sensors, enhancing generator performance and system stability by directly utilizing internal conductors for current measurement and control.
Implementation Method 1
The control device uses a conductor embedded in the generator to measure the total generator output current and operates to limit and/or cease the output current according to said measurement. The control device monitors an electrical potential across the conductor in determining the total generator output current.
Implementation Method 2
Where temperature variation of the conductor is substantial, the control device may be configured to measure the temperature of the conductor to compensate for the temperature variation.
Data Source
AI summary
A control device measures a voltage drop across a conductor in a generator to determine and control the total generator output current. A temperature of the conductor is also measured to improve the accuracy. The control device may further improve on the accuracy by compensating for the electrical current through a field coil that may power the generator. The control device may be used in combination with a generator in a vehicle electrical system. Other system parameters may be monitored to improve on the system monitoring, diagnostics, and control. The generator may include a conductor comprising a process-controlled geometric shape.