HFAC Resonant Power Supply for Standing Wave Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional high frequency alternating current (HFAC) systems operate at a fixed current and frequency, leading to issues such as high voltage output, potential safety hazards, especially in wet conditions or fault conditions, and poor current regulation due to standing waves, which can cause overheating and premature device failure.
Innovation Solution
A HFAC power supply system powered by a DC source, featuring a controller that adjusts voltage, frequency, and resonance in response to load conditions, using a voltage regulator, DC to AC driver, and LC resonant bridge circuit to maintain stable output and prevent overheating.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Power
If constant current mode of operation is used in HFAC systems, then power delivery is maintained, but output voltage becomes high as load increases causing safety hazards and burns
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by transitioning from constant current mode to variable current mode operation. The system dynamically adjusts the output current based on load conditions, using control circuits to modulate the HFAC output. This allows the system to maintain adequate power delivery while preventing excessive voltage buildup that occurs in constant current mode when loads vary, thereby resolving the safety hazard without sacrificing power delivery capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements parameter changes by varying the current parameter in response to load conditions. Instead of maintaining a fixed current, the system changes the current parameter dynamically based on detected load characteristics and power requirements. This parameter adjustment prevents the output voltage from rising to dangerous levels while ensuring sufficient power is delivered to the load, directly addressing the contradiction between power delivery and safety.
2Power
If constant current HFAC systems are used, then power is supplied to loads, but during fault conditions current is driven directly into faulty circuits causing thermal failure and melting
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies feedback by incorporating detection circuits that continuously monitor load conditions and power delivery status. When a fault condition is detected (such as abnormal current draw or temperature rise), the feedback mechanism triggers the control system to reduce or interrupt power delivery. This feedback loop prevents the system from continuing to drive high current into faulty circuits, thereby avoiding thermal failure and melting while maintaining normal power supply operation under healthy conditions.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements preliminary anti-action by detecting potential fault conditions before they lead to catastrophic failure. The system uses monitoring circuits to identify early signs of faults (such as abnormal impedance changes or current patterns) and takes preventive action by adjusting power delivery accordingly. This preliminary intervention stops the progression toward thermal runaway and equipment damage, enhancing reliability while maintaining power supply function.
3Use of energy by moving object
If high frequency AC is used for inductive power transfer, then efficient power delivery is achieved, but standing waves cause poor current regulation and overheating
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by implementing variable frequency operation to counteract standing wave effects. Instead of operating at a fixed high frequency, the system dynamically adjusts the operating frequency based on load conditions and detected resonance characteristics. This dynamic frequency adjustment prevents the formation of standing waves that cause poor current regulation and overheating, while maintaining efficient inductive power transfer by operating at optimal frequencies determined in real-time.
4Ease of operation
If inductive coupling is used for power distribution, then installation is simpler and electrocution risk is reduced, but current regulation remains poor due to standing waves
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements parameter changes by varying the frequency parameter to optimize current regulation. The system adjusts the operating frequency based on load conditions and detected resonance characteristics, preventing standing wave formation that causes poor current regulation. This parameter adjustment maintains the installation simplicity of inductive coupling while significantly improving current regulation performance by operating at frequencies that minimize resonant effects.
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
Enables safe and efficient power distribution over longer distances without standing wave issues, allowing for user-controlled operation and integration with building management systems, reducing the risk of electrical shocks and fires.
Implementation Method 1
the power circuit being arranged for inductive coupling with a load circuit comprising the power bus
Implementation Method 2
a driver circuit comprising an LC resonant bridge circuit
Data Source
AI summary
According to the invention there is provided a HFAC power supply configured to be powered by a DC supply, the HFAC power supply comprising a power circuit, a load circuit and a controller, the power circuit and the load circuit being inductively coupled, the power circuit comprising a voltage regulator configured to output an output voltage, a DC to AC driver and a driver circuit comprising an LC resonant bridge circuit and a primary inductor inductively coupled to the load circuit.