Holdup Capacitor Dual-Path Discharge for Power Interruption Reliability
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Solution Overview
Problem
Abrupt power interruptions in aircraft power controller circuits cause high current stress on holdup capacitors and input capacitors due to rapid voltage transitions, potentially damaging sensitive electronic components.
Innovation Solution
A method and system employing a dual discharge path architecture with a current limiting resistor in the 'FAST LANE' and a low impedance path in the 'SLOW LANE' to manage the discharge of the holdup capacitor, ensuring controlled energy transfer and minimizing inrush currents, using a switching device and a time delay to activate the paths based on operational parameters.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Speed
If the holdup capacitor is rapidly discharged during power interruptions, then the system can quickly transition to holdup power supply to maintain operation, but high current stress is exerted on the holdup capacitor and input capacitor, potentially damaging components
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the single discharge path into two segmented paths: a fast discharge path with a first switch and a slow discharge path with a second switch. The fast path quickly supplies power during abrupt interruptions, while the slow path gradually discharges the holdup capacitor to minimize current stress. This segmentation allows the system to achieve both rapid response and component protection by selectively activating different paths based on the interruption scenario.
2Productivity
If the holdup capacitor is rapidly discharged, then uninterrupted power supply is maintained during abrupt interruptions, but large inrush current flows through the switch and diode to the input capacitor, causing electrical stresses beyond component ratings
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic discharge control by using a control circuit that monitors power source status and dynamically switches between discharge paths. During abrupt power interruptions, the fast discharge path is activated for immediate power continuity. During controlled shutdown scenarios, the slow discharge path is activated to gradually discharge the capacitor, minimizing inrush current and electrical stress on components. This dynamic adaptation allows the system to optimize discharge behavior based on real-time operational conditions.
3Device complexity
If a single discharge path is used, then the circuit is simple, but the system cannot differentiate between abrupt power interruptions and controlled shutdown scenarios, leading to unnecessary component stress during normal shutdowns
Solution Approach 1:
The patent incorporates a control circuit that provides feedback-based discharge path selection. The control circuit monitors the status of the power source and the operational state of the system to determine whether an abrupt interruption or a controlled shutdown is occurring. Based on this feedback, the control circuit selectively activates either the fast discharge path or the slow discharge path. This feedback mechanism enables the system to adapt its discharge behavior to the specific scenario, improving response adaptability without requiring overly complex additional hardware.
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 approach reduces electrical stresses on components, improves long-term reliability, and maintains uninterrupted power supply during interruptions while minimizing power loss and component strain.
Implementation Method 1
a first current limited path from the holdup capacitor to the load via a current limiting device
Implementation Method 2
a holdup capacitor in a power system, charged to a high DC voltage
Data Source
Figure 1
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Figure 4
AI summary
A method of controlling discharge of a holdup capacitor in a power system (113) having a voltage source (115), a holdup capacitor (111) and a load (140). The method including operably connecting the voltage source (115) to the load (140), monitoring a first voltage of the voltage source (115), and if the first voltage of the voltage source drops below a selected threshold, directing energy from the holdup capacitor(111) to the load (140) via a first path, and directing energy from the holdup capacitor (111) to the load (140) via a second path if a selected condition is satisfied.