Generator System with Dynamic Series-Parallel Switching
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing generator systems face difficulties in achieving both parallel and series operation of multiple alternating current (AC) generators when their neutral conductors are grounded, as this configuration often leads to shorting and makes it challenging to obtain desired output voltages.
Innovation Solution
A generator system with a switch command unit and series-parallel switching switches that allow for seamless switching between parallel and series connections, while maintaining neutral lines grounded, using a control unit to synchronize frequency and phase of AC voltage waveforms between generators, enabling 120V output in parallel mode and 240V output in series mode.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Stability of the object's composition
If multiple AC generators are connected in parallel or series with neutral conductors grounded, then the connection stability is improved, but the adaptability to achieve both parallel and series operation deteriorates due to shorting risks
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by making the connection configuration changeable through switching elements. The system dynamically switches between parallel and series connection modes by controlling the on/off state of switching elements, allowing the neutral conductor connection to be adaptive rather than fixed. This resolves the contradiction by enabling both stable grounded connections and operational versatility through dynamic reconfiguration.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent segments the connection path by introducing separate switching elements for each phase and neutral conductor. This segmentation allows independent control of connection states, enabling the system to selectively connect or disconnect neutral conductors in different operation modes without causing shorting, thus achieving both stability and adaptability.
2Reliability
If the neutral conductors of generators are grounded to ensure safety, then the reliability is improved, but the ability to achieve both parallel and series operation deteriorates due to shorting
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically controls the grounding connection of neutral conductors through switching elements. In parallel operation mode, the neutral conductors are grounded for safety and stability. In series operation mode, the switching elements reconfigure the connection to prevent shorting while maintaining safety. This dynamic control allows the system to maintain reliability across different operation modes.
Solution Approach 2:
The switching elements act as intermediaries between the neutral conductors and the grounding connection. These intermediaries enable controlled connection and disconnection of neutral conductors, allowing the system to maintain grounding safety in parallel mode while preventing shorting in series mode, thus preserving both reliability and operational versatility.
3Device complexity
If the connection circuit is fixed in one configuration, then the device complexity is reduced, but the adaptability to switch between parallel and series modes deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The connection circuit is made dynamic through the introduction of switching elements that can change the circuit configuration based on operation mode requirements. The control unit dynamically adjusts the switching element states to achieve parallel or series connection, allowing the circuit to adapt without requiring multiple fixed configurations, thus balancing complexity and versatility.
Solution Approach 2:
The connection circuit is designed with multi-functionality by using the same switching elements and control logic to achieve both parallel and series operation modes. This universal design allows a single circuit configuration to perform multiple functions, reducing the need for separate dedicated circuits for each mode and thereby managing complexity while maintaining adaptability.
Data Source
AI summary
A generator system, including first and second generators, a connection circuit connecting output lines of the first and second generators to each other and connecting neutral lines of the first and second generators to the ground, a switch command unit outputting commands to switch a connection mode of the first and second generators between parallel and series connection modes, a circuit switch switching a connection mode of the connection circuit in response to the commands, a data acquiring unit acquiring a waveform data of the first generator when the second generator is operated after the first generator is operated, and a control unit controlling the second generator to synchronize frequency and phase of waveforms of the first and second generators in the parallel connection mode and controlling the second generator to synchronize frequency and shift phase by 180 degree in the series connection mode.