Heterogeneous Power Supply System with Dynamic Switching Logic
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current power supply systems for aircraft face challenges in securely switching between multiple heterogeneous power networks, leading to frequent and sudden network changes, excessive use of unidirectional converters, and inadequate filtering of current draws, resulting in disturbances in the distribution voltage and inefficient use of redundant networks.
Innovation Solution
A power supply system with a distribution bus and unidirectional converters, controlled by storage and distribution regulation loops, that prevents energy transfers between networks, prioritizes power sources, and filters current draws, using bidirectional isolators and energy storage devices to maintain a stable distribution voltage and minimize energy withdrawal from non-priority networks.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If rigid switching logic is used to select supply networks, then switching between networks is simplified, but frequent and sudden switching occurs leading to disturbances in distribution voltage
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic switching logic that adapts to real-time system conditions. The control system continuously monitors converter output voltages and adjusts switching decisions based on current operational state, replacing rigid predetermined switching logic with adaptive dynamic control that prevents frequent and sudden switching while maintaining voltage stability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs feedback mechanisms where the control system monitors the actual performance of supply networks and converters, then adjusts switching decisions based on this feedback. This closed-loop control prevents premature switching and ensures that network changes occur only when necessary and controlled, thereby stabilizing the distribution voltage.
2Reliability
If unidirectional converters are heavily used to prevent energy exchanges between networks, then secure switching is achieved, but converter wear increases and redundant networks are called upon more than necessary
Solution Approach 1:
The patent prepares the system for potential network failures by pre-configuring multiple supply networks and converters, but only activates them when necessary. The control system maintains readiness without continuously engaging redundant networks, thereby preventing excessive energy consumption while ensuring secure switching capability is available when needed.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent allows redundant supply networks to remain in standby mode rather than continuously operating, discarding their energy consumption during normal operation. When the primary network fails or switching is required, these redundant networks are recovered and activated, providing backup capability without wasteful continuous energy use.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple heterogeneous power networks are connected to the distribution bus, then power supply versatility is improved, but energy transfers between networks occur causing instability
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces unidirectional converters as intermediary devices between heterogeneous power networks and the distribution bus. These converters act as mediators that enable connection of different network types (AC/DC, different voltages) while preventing direct energy transfers between networks, thus maintaining stability while preserving versatility.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent segments the power supply system by inserting individual unidirectional converters between each supply network and the distribution bus. This segmentation isolates each network electrically, preventing direct energy exchanges between them while allowing each to independently supply power to the bus through its dedicated converter.
Data Source
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AI summary
The system has N-unidirectional converters connected to an input of a feed network (R1-RN) and supplying an electrical power (P1-PN) to a distribution bus (16). A controlling unit (20) controls the unidirectional converters. An energy storage device (18) is connected to the distribution bus and comprises a quantity of energy. The controlling unit is adapted to simultaneously control the unidirectional converters for regulating the electrical power provided by each of the unidirectional converters according to the amount of energy.