Interface Device for Agricultural Generator Power Management
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing systems for providing electrical power to agricultural working machines with attached generator units are inefficient and costly for stationary applications where traction is not required, as they necessitate extensive infrastructure for connecting external electrical energy sources.
Innovation Solution
An interface device that includes a generator unit with an electric machine, converters for voltage conversion, and an adapter for connecting an external voltage supply, allowing for efficient use of electrical power from networks or storage devices without requiring additional infrastructure, and maintaining compatibility with existing operating interfaces.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Power
If an attachment is electrified to be operated via a standardized socket, then electrical power can be supplied to the attachment, but additional infrastructure in the form of converters and controls would be required on the attachment
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the electrical power conversion infrastructure from the attachment and relocates it to the generator unit. The generator unit is equipped with converters and controls that can supply electrical power to the attachment through the existing standardized socket, eliminating the need for additional infrastructure on the attachment itself.
Solution Approach 2:
The generator unit is designed to perform multiple functions: it can generate electrical power using the vehicle's internal combustion engine, and it can also accept external electrical power from the utility network through the adapter means. This multi-functionality allows the same infrastructure to serve both mobile and stationary applications without requiring separate systems.
2Power
If a generator unit is used to provide electrical power to electrified attachments, then higher electrical power can be supplied, but the internal combustion engine alone must continue to handle traction tasks
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically switches between different power sources based on operational requirements. During mobile operations, the internal combustion engine drives the generator to provide electrical power. During stationary operations, the adapter means enables the system to switch to external electrical power from the utility network, optimizing energy consumption for each operational mode.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes its operational parameters by switching between engine-driven generation and grid-connected operation. The adapter means enables detection of external voltage supply and facilitates the transition to using external electrical power, thereby changing the energy source parameter from fossil fuel to renewable or grid electricity.
3Loss of energy
If stationary applications require external electrical power from the utility network, then renewable energy can be used, but extensive infrastructure would be required to connect the external electrical energy source
Solution Approach 1:
The adapter means is designed to enable the generator unit to function in both mobile and stationary modes. It provides a universal interface that allows connection to the utility network while using the same generator unit infrastructure already present on the vehicle, eliminating the need for separate infrastructure for stationary applications.
Solution Approach 2:
The adapter means acts as an intermediary device that facilitates connection between the external electrical network and the generator unit's existing infrastructure. It includes necessary components like a male AEF plug and standard 3-phase plug, serving as a bridge that enables external power connection without requiring extensive additional infrastructure.
4Power
If the adapter means are plugged in to enable mains operation, then external electrical power can be supplied, but the corresponding converter of power electronics must be deactivated
Solution Approach 1:
The system incorporates feedback mechanisms through the EtherCAT network that allow the adapter means to communicate its presence and status to the generator unit's control system. This automatic feedback enables the system to detect when external power is connected and automatically switch to the appropriate operational mode, reducing manual intervention and simplifying operation.
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 economical and efficient operation of electrified attachments using renewable energy, preventing battery discharge and allowing for seamless transition to mains operation without additional effort, ensuring compatibility and efficient energy utilization.
Implementation Method 1
an electric machine (42) for generating an AC voltage
Implementation Method 2
a first converter (44 1-44 4) for feeding the AC voltage as DC voltage into a DC link (46)
Implementation Method 3
a second converter (44 1-44 4) for transmitting the DC voltage of the DC link (46) as AC voltage to an attachment (30)
Data Source
Figure 1
AI summary
The invention relates to an interface device for transmitting electrical power from an external power supply to an agricultural machine, which includes an attached generator unit.