Integrated Power Supply in Motor Interface Controller

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Solution Overview

Problem

Electric motor systems require external transformers for power conversion, increasing production costs and causing compatibility issues between interface controllers and auxiliary transformers.

Innovation Solution

A motor assembly with an integrated power supply in the interface controller, including AC to DC conversion and voltage reduction components, allowing direct connection to AC mains without external transformers, simplifying wiring and installation.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of manufacture

If an external transformer is used for power conversion in the interface controller, then the power conversion function is achieved, but the device complexity and production costs increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveproduction costVSAvoidwiring complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of manufactureVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent integrates the power supply circuit directly into the interface controller, merging the previously separate external transformer function with the controller itself. This eliminates the need for separate wiring connections to an external transformer and reduces the number of components that need to be assembled and wired during production.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The interface controller is designed to perform multiple functions including both control operations and power conversion. The integrated power supply circuit allows the controller to handle both low-voltage logic operations and high-voltage power conversion internally, making the device more versatile and eliminating the need for separate dedicated power conversion components.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Adaptability or versatility

If an external transformer is used for power conversion, then the power supply function is achieved, but compatibility issues arise between interface controller models and auxiliary transformers

Engineering Contradiction:
ImprovecompatibilityVSAvoidsystem configuration
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

By integrating the power supply circuit into the interface controller, the patent eliminates the interface between the controller and external transformer. This ensures that all interface controller models use the same internal power conversion design, guaranteeing compatibility across different models without requiring matching with specific external transformer units.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The interface controller becomes self-sufficient by containing its own power conversion capabilities. Each controller model independently handles its own power conversion needs through the integrated circuit, eliminating the need to match with externally provided transformers and ensuring universal compatibility.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

3Volume of moving object

If an external transformer is connected to the interface controller, then the power conversion is achieved, but the overall assembly size increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveassembly volumeVSAvoidwiring requirements
Core Design Contradiction:
Volume of moving objectVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The integration of the power supply circuit into the interface controller consolidates multiple components into a single unit. This eliminates the physical space required for separate external transformers and their associated wiring harnesses, significantly reducing the overall volume of the motor assembly.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

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 integrated power supply reduces production costs, enhances compatibility, and results in a more compact and versatile motor assembly by eliminating the need for external transformers.

Implementation Method 1

An AC to DC power conversion component converts the AC power to DC power for use by the digital signal processor

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectAC to DC conversion: Rectenna

Implementation Method 2

A DC voltage reduction component reduces and regulates the voltage level of the DC power transmitted to the digital signal processor

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectVoltage reduction: Electromagnetic Induction

Implementation Method 3

The DC to AC power inverter converts the high voltage DC power to three phase current for powering the motor

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectDC to AC conversion: Electromagnetic Induction

Data Source

PatentUS10090738B2Motor interface controller having an integrated power supply
Publication Date: 2018.10.02 NIDEC MOTOR CORP
  • US10090738B2 patent drawing
  • US10090738B2 patent drawing
  • US10090738B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A motor assembly broadly includes a motor, a motor controller, and an interface controller having an integrated power supply. The integrated power supply includes an AC to DC power conversion and voltage reduction component. The motor controller and the interface controller receive line voltage electrical power without the need for an external transformer.