Generator Power Output Control via Central Controller
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing power source systems lack flexibility and efficiency in managing power output and operation limits, particularly in rental applications, where varying power needs and environmental restrictions complicate equipment usage, leading to inefficiencies and potential misuse.
Innovation Solution
A power source system with onboard controllers connected via a network to a central controller, allowing remote management of power output, emission monitoring, and geographic-based alerts, enabling configuration of power levels, deactivation, and operation limits to align with user needs and environmental regulations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If power sources are equipped with high power output capability, then they can meet diverse user needs, but it leads to equipment over-specification and increased costs when full power is not required
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically adjusts the power output of generators based on real-time monitoring of actual power consumption by equipment. The central controller receives power consumption data and automatically configures generator power levels, transforming the static high-power design into a dynamic adaptive system that matches actual needs, thereby eliminating over-specification while maintaining versatility.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention changes the power output parameter of generators from a fixed high-value state to a variable state that can be adjusted according to actual demand. By monitoring equipment power consumption and dynamically reconfiguring generator parameters, the system achieves adaptability without requiring over-sized equipment, thus reducing energy waste from over-specification.
2Power
If power sources operate at maximum power levels continuously, then they provide sufficient power for all tasks, but it increases energy consumption and reduces operational efficiency
Solution Approach 1:
The system implements a feedback mechanism where the central controller continuously monitors actual power consumption by equipment and uses this information to dynamically adjust generator power output. This closed-loop control ensures that power availability is maintained at appropriate levels without continuous maximum operation, thereby reducing energy consumption while preserving sufficient power for all tasks.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention transforms the static maximum power operation into a dynamic power adjustment process. The system adaptively changes power output levels based on real-time monitoring of equipment needs, ensuring power availability is always sufficient while avoiding the energy waste of continuous maximum-power operation.
3Adaptability or versatility
If rental equipment is provided with full power capability, then it can handle various job requirements, but it complicates management and increases costs when full power is not always needed
Solution Approach 1:
The system enables self-service management where the power configuration adjusts automatically based on monitored equipment consumption without requiring manual intervention. The central controller autonomously receives consumption data and reconfigures generator power levels, simplifying rental equipment management while maintaining power configuration flexibility to handle various job requirements.
4Ease of operation
If power sources are allowed to operate without restrictions, then users have maximum operational freedom, but it leads to potential misuse and environmental non-compliance
Solution Approach 1:
The system implements preliminary actions by pre-configuring maximum power levels and operational parameters before equipment use begins. The central controller sets initial power configurations and monitors operation to ensure compliance with environmental regulations, maintaining operational freedom while preventing misuse through proactive control measures.
Data Source
AI summary
An electric arc generation device includes an internal combustion engine operatively coupled to a generator, an arc generation power supply powered by the generator, an ECU configured to control a maximum power output level of the engine according to one of a low power routine and a high power routine, and a position signal receiver operatively connected to the ECU. The position signal receiver is configured to receive a position signal, generate current position information based on the position signal, and provide the current position information to the ECU. The ECU is configured to compare the current position information to predetermined region data, and automatically switch from one of the high power routine and the low power routine to a different one of the high power routine and the low power routine based on a result of the comparing, to automatically control the maximum power output level of the engine.