Hybrid Electric Device Power Control Module
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing hybrid electric devices lack a efficient power management system that allows seamless transition between AC and DC power sources, leading to limited operational modes and reduced battery life in power tools like lawnmowers and snow blowers.
Innovation Solution
A hybrid electric device with a power control module that enables selection between AC and DC power sources, incorporating a dual mode power supply and charge controller to optimize motor power usage, allowing for conserve and boost modes, and a dual voltage motor configuration for consistent performance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a battery assembly is used to power the motor, then the device can operate portably without AC mains, but the operational duration is limited by battery capacity
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically switches between battery power and AC power based on availability and operational needs. The controller monitors power source availability and automatically transitions between power modes, allowing the device to adapt its power supply strategy in real-time to maximize both portability and operational duration.
Solution Approach 2:
The power system is designed to accept multiple power sources (battery assembly and AC mains) and automatically adapt to whichever source is available. This multi-functionality allows the same device to operate in both portable battery mode and extended AC-powered mode without requiring separate devices.
2Duration of action of moving object
If AC power is used to operate the motor, then unlimited operational duration is available, but the device requires connection to AC mains
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically adjusts its operational mode based on power source availability. When AC power is detected, the controller enables unlimited operation mode; when AC power is unavailable, it automatically switches to battery power mode, providing continuous adaptation between portable and stationary operational states.
Solution Approach 2:
The controller acts as an intermediary between the power sources and the motor, managing the transition and coordination between battery power and AC power. It monitors the state of both power sources and intelligently directs power flow to optimize operational duration while maintaining portability capabilities.
3Productivity
If the motor operates at high power output, then work performance is improved, but energy consumption increases and battery life decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The motor operates dynamically at different power levels based on the selected mode. In conserve mode, the motor runs at reduced power to minimize energy consumption and extend battery life. In boost mode, the motor operates at full power output for high-performance tasks, with the system automatically managing the transitions between these states based on operational requirements.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the operational parameters of the motor by switching between conserve mode (reduced power, lower energy consumption) and boost mode (full power, higher energy consumption). This parameter adjustment allows optimization of the balance between work performance and energy consumption based on real-time operational needs and available power sources.
4Productivity
If the motor operates at maximum power output, then work performance is maximized, but consistent performance across different power sources becomes difficult to achieve
Solution Approach 1:
The controller continuously monitors the available power source (battery voltage, AC power availability) and adjusts motor operation accordingly. This feedback mechanism ensures that the motor receives consistent and appropriate power levels regardless of whether the source is battery or AC, maintaining stable and consistent performance characteristics across different operating conditions.
Solution Approach 2:
The system adjusts electrical parameters (voltage, current) based on the detected power source to maintain consistent motor performance. When switching between battery and AC power, the controller modifies power delivery parameters to ensure the motor operates at optimal and consistent performance levels, eliminating discrepancies that would otherwise arise from different power source characteristics.
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
Enhances operational efficiency by extending battery life, providing consistent motor performance across different power sources, and reducing energy consumption, thus improving the overall performance and usability of power tools.
Implementation Method 1
a power inverter configured for receiving an Alternating Current (AC) power and further configured for outputting a DC power to the second power source configuration
Implementation Method 2
a battery assembly having a Direct Current (DC) power output
Data Source
AI summary
A device includes a housing configured with a working element. The device further includes a motor configured for urging motion of the working element. The device further includes a power control module. The power control module is configurable for being in electrical connection with at least one of the motor, a first power source configuration and a second power source configuration. The first power source configuration is configurable for being electrically connected to a battery assembly having a DC power output. The second power source configuration is configurable for being electrically connected to a power inverter, the power inverter configured for receiving an AC power and further configured for outputting a DC power to the second power source configuration. The motor receives power via the power control module from the first power source configuration and/or the second power source configuration.