Generator Parallel Connection Apparatus with Model ID Matching and Current Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional methods for connecting generators in parallel require dedicated sockets and ground terminals, which complicate the structure and do not effectively prevent damage from differing generator outputs or handle plug disconnections, leading to potential damage if one generator's output appears at the terminals of a disconnected plug.
Innovation Solution
A connection apparatus with a conductive path, switching circuit, and electronic control unit that includes a microcomputer to detect current and model IDs, allowing the apparatus to automatically disconnect generators from the load when a plug is disconnected and ensuring compatibility by matching model IDs before connecting them to an electrical load.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If dedicated parallel running sockets with insulating covers are provided on each generator, then the output of other generators does not appear at disconnected plug terminals, but the structure becomes complicated and general utility is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses standard universal sockets that can serve both as power outlets and as connection points for parallel running detection. The control unit utilizes the existing socket infrastructure along with current detection circuits to identify plug disconnection states, eliminating the need for dedicated specialized sockets while maintaining the safety function.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical/physical solution of insulating covers on dedicated sockets with an electronic control system. The control unit electronically monitors current flow through the sockets and automatically opens the circuit breaker when disconnection is detected, substituting physical isolation with electronic control.
2Reliability
If dedicated ground terminals and switching circuits are provided as taught by Japanese Patent No. 2,869,905, then the output of other generators is prevented from appearing at disconnected plug terminals, but the structure becomes complicated
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the ground terminal function with the existing socket structure. The control unit monitors current through the same conductive path used for power delivery, merging the safety monitoring function with the power delivery infrastructure rather than requiring separate dedicated ground terminals and switching circuits.
Solution Approach 2:
The control unit automatically detects plug disconnection through current monitoring and autonomously opens the circuit breaker without requiring manual intervention or complex external switching mechanisms. The system serves itself by using its own monitoring capability to trigger the protective action.
3Device complexity
If generators remain in parallel running connection without disconnection detection, then the connection is simple, but damage may occur if the outputs of the generators differ greatly
Solution Approach 1:
The control unit continuously monitors current flow through the parallel running connection and provides feedback about the operational state. When a plug is disconnected, the change in current pattern is detected and feeds back to the control unit, which then opens the circuit breaker to prevent damage from mismatched generator outputs.
Solution Approach 2:
The control unit is pre-programmed with the appropriate protective action to take when disconnection is detected. The circuit breaker is kept closed and ready for operation, and upon detection of the disconnection condition, the pre-prepared protective action is immediately executed to prevent generator damage before it can occur.
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 solution prevents generator outputs from appearing at disconnected plugs, reduces structural complexity, and protects generators from damage by automatically responding to disconnections and ensuring compatible connections without the need for dedicated sockets or ground terminals.
Implementation Method 1
a current sensor that detects current flowing the conductive path
Data Source
AI summary
An apparatus for connecting two generators to run in parallel including a conductive path that connects the generators to an electrical load, a switching circuit that opens/closes the conductive path, a current sensor that detects current flowing the conductive path and an electronic control unit comprising a microcomputer. The control unit functions as a generator model identifier that inputs a signal indicating a model ID from each generator and determines whether the model ID corresponds to data stored in memory, and a switching circuit operator that operates the circuit to close the conductive path to connect the generators to the electrical load when the model ID corresponds to the data, while operates it to open the conductive path when the current is not detected by the current sensor after the conductive path was closed, thereby preventing the outputs of other generators from appearing at the terminals of a disconnected plug and damage to the generators.