Interchangeable Power Cells for Quadrant Operation

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing motor systems are limited in applicability as they are designed to accommodate either two-quadrant or four-quadrant power cells, failing to provide flexible operation across all quadrants of speed and torque requirements.

Innovation Solution

A modular power cell system with interchangeable regenerative and non-regenerative power cells, each with a standardized chassis size and shape, allowing for flexible configuration and operation across all quadrants by using support structures with rails and buses for electrical connections.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If motor systems are designed to accommodate either two-quadrant or four-quadrant power cells, then the system can operate in specific quadrants, but the system lacks flexibility to operate across all quadrants of speed and torque requirements

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveoperational flexibility across quadrantsVSAvoidsystem configuration complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The power cell is designed with a universal structure that can accommodate both two-quadrant and four-quadrant operational modes through interchangeable converter assemblies. The standardized chassis and mounting structure allow the same physical slot to accept different converter types, enabling the system to universally handle both motoring and regenerative operations without requiring separate dedicated systems for each quadrant mode.

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

Solution Approach 2:

The power cell is segmented into distinct functional modules: a standardized chassis structure and interchangeable converter assemblies. This segmentation allows the converter (which determines quadrant capability) to be independently replaced while keeping the chassis and other components unchanged, thereby enabling flexible configuration across different operational requirements without redesigning the entire system.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

2Ease of repair

If standardized chassis size and shape are used for interchangeable power cells, then ease of replacement and mixing is improved, but manufacturing precision requirements increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecell replacement easeVSAvoidchassis dimensional consistency
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of repairVSManufacturing precision

Solution Approach 1:

The invention establishes specific dimensional parameters for the chassis (width of 19.05 cm, depth of 45.72 cm, height of 45.72 cm) that serve as standardized specifications. By defining these parameters precisely, the system achieves interchangeability while managing manufacturing precision through standardized tolerances rather than requiring excessive precision across all components.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

Solution Approach 2:

The standardized chassis design serves multiple functions: it provides a universal mounting structure for different converter types, ensures consistent electrical connection interfaces, and enables straightforward replacement procedures. This multi-functionality justifies the manufacturing precision requirements by demonstrating that the standardized dimensions enable broader system flexibility and ease of maintenance.

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

Data Source

PatentUS7830111B2Power delivery system including interchangeable cells
Publication Date: 2010.11.09 INNOMOTICS GMBH
  • US7830111B2 patent drawing
  • US7830111B2 patent drawing
  • US7830111B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A power cell system includes a structure that provides multiple power cell locations. The system also includes at least one regenerative power cell, and at least one non-regenerative power cell. The cell locations and power cells are sized and positioned so that each cell location may interchangeably accept either a regenerative power cell or a non-regenerative power cell.