Generator Load Control via Fuel Type Detection

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing generator systems lack dynamic load control mechanisms that adapt to different types of fuels, leading to inefficiencies and potential malfunctions when switching between fuel sources.

Innovation Solution

A controller system that dynamically connects and disconnects loads from a generator based on detected fuel types, using a lookup table to associate specific loads with compatible fuels and adjust power distribution accordingly, ensuring optimal operation across various fuel sources.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If the generator operates with multiple fuel types without dynamic load control, then fuel versatility is improved, but system reliability deteriorates due to potential malfunctions and inefficiencies

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvefuel versatilityVSAvoidsystem reliability
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The system dynamically adjusts load connections based on the detected fuel type. The controller monitors which fuel is supplied to the engine and automatically reconfigures the electrical loads to match the optimal operating characteristics of that fuel, transforming a static system into a dynamic one that adapts in real-time

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The system changes operational parameters (load connections) based on the fuel type parameter. Different fuel types have different combustion characteristics, and the system adjusts the electrical load parameters to optimize performance and prevent malfunctions for each fuel type

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

2Adaptability or versatility

If the generator operates with multiple fuel types without dynamic load control, then fuel versatility is improved, but energy efficiency deteriorates due to suboptimal power distribution

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvefuel versatilityVSAvoidenergy efficiency
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSUse of energy by moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The system continuously monitors fuel type and dynamically reconfigures load connections to match the energy characteristics of each fuel, ensuring optimal energy utilization regardless of which fuel is being consumed

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The controller adjusts operational parameters (which loads are connected) based on the fuel type, optimizing energy efficiency by matching the load profile to the combustion characteristics of the current fuel source

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

3Reliability

If dynamic load control based on fuel type is implemented, then system reliability is improved, but device complexity increases due to additional control mechanisms

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesystem reliabilityVSAvoidcontrol system complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The controller serves multiple functions: it monitors fuel type, determines optimal load configurations, and executes switching commands. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate dedicated components for each control task, managing complexity through functional integration

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The system incorporates feedback from fuel type detection to automatically adjust load connections. This closed-loop control ensures reliability by continuously monitoring conditions and making appropriate adjustments without requiring complex manual intervention systems

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

4Use of energy by moving object

If dynamic load control based on fuel type is implemented, then energy efficiency is improved, but device complexity increases due to additional control mechanisms

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveenergy efficiencyVSAvoidcontrol system complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Use of energy by moving objectVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The controller integrates multiple control functions into a single device, managing both fuel type detection and load optimization tasks, thereby achieving energy efficiency improvements without proportionally increasing overall system complexity

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The feedback mechanism enables automatic optimization of energy efficiency based on fuel type detection, eliminating the need for complex manual adjustment systems while achieving superior energy management through automated closed-loop control

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

Data Source

PatentUS11519345B2Dynamic loads based on fuel type
Publication Date: 2022.12.06 DISCOVERY ENERGY LLC
  • US11519345B2 patent drawing
  • US11519345B2 patent drawing
  • US11519345B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A system and method for dynamically controlling an aggregate load on a generator is described. Fuel change data for a gaseous fuel for the generator is identified. The fuel change data indicates a change in fuel type for the generator. A controller identifies at least one load portion from the aggregate load associated with the change in fuel type and generates a switch command for a switch coupled to the at least one load in response to the change in fuel type.