Junction Box Serial Carrier Interface for Fire Safety
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional junction boxes in solar photovoltaic and electric vehicle power systems pose a risk during fires due to high-voltage DC power, making it difficult for firefighters to safely disconnect and extinguish, leading to potential injuries and property damage.
Innovation Solution
A junction box system with a serial carrier interface module and control module that allows for the serialization and de-serialization of power transmission, using a switch and bypass diodes to control DC power flow, enabling safe disconnection during emergencies.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Power
If solar photovoltaic panels are connected in serial via junction boxes to form larger voltage, then the power output is improved, but the safety risk during fire accidents worsens due to high-voltage DC power
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the series-connected power system into multiple independently controllable segments. Each junction box is equipped with a switch that can independently disconnect its segment, transforming a monolithic high-voltage system into separable low-voltage segments for safer fire suppression
Solution Approach 2:
The control module detects fire conditions and automatically activates switches to disconnect power segments before firefighters arrive. This preliminary disconnection action eliminates the high-voltage hazard in advance, allowing safe fire suppression without electric shock risk
2Object-affected harmful factors
If all electrical access points are disconnected to prevent DC high voltage during fire, then the safety is improved, but the complexity of disconnection operation worsens
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of requiring disconnection of all N+1 electrical access points, the system segments power control into individual junction boxes. Firefighters only need to disconnect the specific segment where fire occurs, dramatically reducing the number of disconnection operations required
Solution Approach 2:
The control module automatically detects fire conditions and actuates switches to disconnect power segments without human intervention. This self-service capability eliminates the need for firefighters to manually disconnect multiple electrical access points, reducing operational complexity and exposure time
3Device complexity
If conventional junction boxes without switch control are used, then the device complexity is reduced, but the ability to control power transmission during emergencies is worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the switch and control module directly into the junction box structure, integrating power control functionality into the existing component. This integration adds minimal complexity while enabling sophisticated power control capabilities for emergency situations
Solution Approach 2:
The control module serves multiple functions: normal power transmission control, fire detection, automatic switch actuation, and communication with the control system. This multi-functionality provides comprehensive emergency control capability within a compact integrated design
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 system effectively de-serializes power connections in case of a fire, reducing the risk of electric shock and property damage by allowing controlled shutdown of power transmission.
Implementation Method 1
The at least one bypass diode is electrically coupled to the power supply unit
Implementation Method 2
The serial carrier interface module electrically coupled to the first connection terminal and the second connection terminal for transmitting a carrier and a DC power provided by the power supply unit
Data Source
AI summary
A junction box for connecting a power supply unit is disclosed. The junction box includes a first connection terminal, a second connection terminal, a serial carrier interface module, and a control module. The first connection terminal and the second terminal are utilized to connect the junction box and another junction box in a serial connection. The serial carrier interface module is electrically coupled to the first connection terminal and the second connection terminal for the transmission of a carrier and a DC power, which is provided from the power supply unit. The control module is electrically coupled to the serial carrier interface module for receiving the carrier and for controlling of the transmission of the DC power according to the carrier. A power system which employs the junction boxes and a method for controlling the power system are also disclosed.