HVDC Power Supply Apparatus Using Energy Storage for Remote Load
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing power transmission systems face challenges in efficiently and reliably supplying power to remote locations due to incompatible load ratings and the limitations of secondary cables and diesel generators, which are costly and pose safety risks.
Innovation Solution
A power supply apparatus that harnesses energy from existing power transmission lines or cables using switching elements and energy storage devices, controlled by a local autonomous unit, to form a power source compatible with external electrical loads, and employs converters for voltage regulation to ensure reliable and efficient power supply.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If power is directly supplied from the power transmission line to the electrical load, then the power supply is simple, but it is difficult and unsafe when the ratings of the electrical load are incompatible with the ratings of the power transmission line
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary power supply apparatus between the power transmission line and the electrical load. This apparatus includes energy storage devices (capacitors or batteries) and conversion circuits that act as a buffer and adapter, enabling safe and compatible power supply even when ratings differ. The intermediary device converts and regulates power before delivering it to the load, resolving the incompatibility issue.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a secondary cable is used to supply power to remote locations, then power can be delivered to remote areas, but it represents a large and expensive addition to the power transmission scheme
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes the existing power transmission line serve multiple functions: it simultaneously performs its normal power transmission function and provides power to remote electrical loads through the power supply apparatus. By tapping into the existing infrastructure, the system eliminates the need for separate secondary cables, achieving versatility without additional material costs.
3Reliability
If diesel generators and batteries are used to supply power to remote locations, then power can be provided to electrical loads, but the solution is costly and poses safety risks
Solution Approach 1:
The patent enables the power supply apparatus to harvest energy directly from the existing power transmission line to charge its internal energy storage devices. This self-service approach eliminates the need for external diesel generators, removing associated safety risks (fire hazards, fuel storage issues) and operational costs while maintaining reliable power supply availability.
4Reliability
If energy storage devices are connected in parallel with the power transmission line, then power can be stored and released, but the connection method may cause instability in the power transmission system
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces conversion circuits as intermediary components between the power transmission line and the energy storage devices. These circuits include controlled switches and rectifiers that regulate the connection and disconnection of storage devices, ensuring stable operation. The intermediary circuits prevent direct parallel connection issues by controlling energy flow bidirectionally, maintaining power transmission system stability while enabling reliable storage and release capabilities.
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 cost-effective, reliable, and efficient power supply to remote locations by utilizing existing infrastructure, reducing the need for additional cables or generators, and ensuring consistent voltage and energy storage, thus improving power transmission reliability and safety.
Implementation Method 1
an energy storage device configured to be capable of storing energy to provide a voltage thereacross and releasing energy
Data Source
AI summary
There is provided a power supply apparatus for supplying power to an external electrical load, including a power transmission line or cable through which an alternating or direct current may flow, a power supply module, a control unit, an output terminal for connection to the external electrical load, and a converter. The power supply module includes an input terminal connected to the power transmission line or cable, and includes switching elements and energy storage device(s). The control unit controls the switching elements to selectively switch each energy storage device into circuit to direct a current flowing in the power transmission line or cable to flow through each energy storage device so as to store energy to form a power source. The converter draws power from the power source and supplies the drawn power to the output terminal.