Impulse Current Generator With Real-Time Waveform Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing impulse current generators rely on passive circuit components and two-state switching, limiting their ability to control impulse current waveforms and adapt to the impedance of the device under test, thus failing to produce a wide range of current waveforms necessary for testing surge protective devices effectively.
Innovation Solution
A controllable impulse current generator using a variable-impedance device, integrated with a current sensing unit and control circuit, enables real-time dynamic waveform synthesis, allowing adaptation to the device under test's impedance and producing impulse current waveforms beyond traditional double-exponential shapes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If traditional two-state switching mechanisms and passive circuit components are used, then the generator structure is simple, but the ability to control impulse current waveforms and adapt to device impedance is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces static two-state switches with dynamic variable-impedance devices that can continuously adjust their impedance during the impulse current generation process. This enables real-time waveform shaping and adaptation to different device under test impedances, transforming the generator from a fixed-configuration system to a dynamically controllable one.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention changes the operational parameters of the switching devices from binary (on/off) to continuous (variable impedance states). By controlling the impedance of switching devices during operation, the system can generate different waveform characteristics without changing the physical structure, thus improving waveform control capability while managing complexity through parameter control rather than structural changes.
2Adaptability or versatility
If passive circuit components are used, then the generator is easy to manufacture, but it cannot produce a wide range of current waveforms necessary for effective testing
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces passive mechanical/electrical circuit components with electronically controlled variable-impedance devices. Instead of manufacturing different physical circuit configurations for different waveforms, the system uses electronic control to dynamically adjust impedance characteristics, substituting physical reconfiguration with electronic parameter control.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention creates a universal impulse current generator that can produce multiple waveform types (exponential, rectangular, triangular, and custom waveforms) using a single integrated circuit design. The variable-impedance switching devices enable one generator to perform the function of multiple specialized generators, achieving waveform variety without proportionally increasing manufacturing complexity.
3Extent of automation
If fixed impedance switching is used, then the control circuit is simple, but real-time dynamic waveform synthesis cannot be achieved
Solution Approach 1:
The patent incorporates feedback mechanisms where the control circuit monitors the actual impulse current waveform and adjusts the variable-impedance device parameters in real-time to achieve the desired waveform. This closed-loop control enables dynamic waveform synthesis by continuously comparing target and actual waveforms and making real-time impedance adjustments.
Solution Approach 2:
The control circuit transitions from static switching control to dynamic impedance control, where the variable-impedance devices are adjusted in real-time during waveform generation. This dynamic control approach enables the system to synthesize waveforms adaptively rather than relying on pre-fixed circuit configurations.
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
The generator produces impulse current waveforms that match targeted outputs, expanding the range of testable waveforms and enhancing the testing of surge protective devices and sensitive electrical equipment, particularly under non-standard conditions.
Implementation Method 1
an energy storage system configured to supply output current for the device under test
Implementation Method 2
a current sensing device providing feedback to the said control circuit
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention refers to a controllable impulse current generator for testing surge protective devises under standard (8/20 µs, 10/350 µs), non-standard, and field-recorded impulse currents. It comprises a control circuit, a current sensing circuit, a variable-impedance device, a device under test and an energy source. It also refers to a related method notably wherein the control circuit monitors the impulse current and drives the variable-impedance device to ensure that the applied current conforms to a targeted output. This invention proves beneficial for use and applications in surge protection, insulation coordination, and hardware-in-the-loop simulations.