Generator Output Selector With Interlocked Voltage Switching
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing electric generators require complex operations to switch between different output voltage levels and formats, risking improper connections that can damage the generator or load, and may not properly operate inverters due to mismatched voltage specifications.
Innovation Solution
An output variable type electric generator with an output format selector switch that includes a wire connection switching section, a connection switching section, and an interlocking mechanism, allowing for simple switching between three-phase alternating current outputs of low and high voltage, as well as single-phase alternating current outputs, while ensuring the inverter receives the correct voltage specification.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a terminal strip with short circuit plate is used to switch wire connection patterns, then voltage output can be changed between low and high, but the operation becomes complicated and risks improper connections causing damage
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple switching functions (wire connection pattern switching and output format selection) into a single integrated switch unit. The first switch unit simultaneously controls both the armature coil connection pattern and the output terminal connection, eliminating the need for separate terminal strip adjustments and reducing operational complexity while maintaining voltage switching capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a cam switch as an intermediary mechanism that automatically adjusts the wire connection pattern based on the selected output format. The cam switch mechanically links the switching lever positions to specific connection patterns, serving as a mediator between the user's selection and the actual electrical connections, thereby preventing improper connections.
2Adaptability or versatility
If manual terminal adjustment is used for switching wire connection patterns, then voltage output can be varied, but the risk of improper connection causing damage to generator or load increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs self-adjustment through the cam mechanism that automatically configures the wire connections according to the selected output format. When the switching lever is positioned to select a specific output format (e.g., 200V or 400V three-phase), the cam switch automatically establishes the corresponding wire connection pattern without requiring manual intervention, ensuring accurate and reliable connections.
Solution Approach 2:
The cam switch acts as a mechanical intermediary that ensures proper alignment between the selected output format and the corresponding wire connection pattern. It physically guides the connections to the correct positions, preventing improper connections that could damage the generator or load.
3Adaptability or versatility
If inverter is added to enable frequency conversion, then output frequency can be varied, but voltage specification mismatch may cause inverter malfunction or damage
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary configuration of the wire connection pattern before the inverter operates. The cam switch automatically sets the correct voltage output based on the selected format before power is supplied to the inverter, ensuring that the inverter receives the appropriate voltage specification (200V or 400V) and preventing voltage mismatch that could cause malfunction or damage.
Solution Approach 2:
The system provides visual feedback through output format indication lights that display the currently selected output format (e.g., 200V three-phase, 400V three-phase, 200V single-phase). This feedback mechanism allows the user to confirm the correct voltage specification is selected before operating the inverter, preventing voltage specification mismatch and ensuring safe inverter operation.
4Ease of operation
If multiple switches are used for wire connection switching and output format selection, then precise control can be achieved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the wire connection switching function and output format selection function into a single integrated switch unit. The first switch unit contains both the armature coil connection switching mechanism and the output terminal connection switching mechanism, allowing simultaneous control of both functions through one switching lever, thereby reducing the total number of switches while maintaining precise control.
Solution Approach 2:
The cam switch is designed as a universal switching mechanism that performs multiple functions: it simultaneously controls the wire connection pattern, output terminal connection, and output format indication. This multi-functional design eliminates the need for separate switches for each function, reducing device complexity while maintaining precise control over all switching operations.
Data Source
AI summary
An output variable type electric generator includes an inverter output circuit having an inverter and a standard output circuit between an electric generator main body outputting a three-phase alternating current of low voltage and high voltage by switching a wire connection pattern of armature coils and a three-phase output terminal block. The generator further includes an output format selector switch. The switch includes a wire connection switching section to switch a wire connection pattern; a connection switching section to switch between the inverter output circuit and the standard connection circuit; and an interlocking mechanism to cause the wire connection switching section and the connection switching section to interlock with each other, and the interlocking mechanism causes the wire connection switching section to switch to a wire connection pattern for generating a voltage corresponding to a specification voltage of the inverter when the connection switching section select the inverter output circuit.