Refrigerator Lamp Power Control Using Switch Voltage Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Battery-driven refrigeration systems in vehicles face challenges in conserving power when the engine is not running, as existing methods require additional wiring or modifications to standard products and do not efficiently monitor the door state to minimize power usage.
Innovation Solution
A control unit that measures the output voltage of a power source and compares it to a predefined threshold to determine the state of a switch, controlling power supply accordingly, using a first power source with high internal impedance to detect the switch state and a second power source to provide power only when needed, thus minimizing power consumption without additional wiring or modifications.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the power supply runs all the time to maintain voltage on the lamp supply output, then the lamp can be lit when the door is open, but power is consumed continuously even when the lamp is not in use
Solution Approach 1:
The power supply dynamically changes its operational state based on system conditions. It transitions between running and stopped states according to whether the compressor is operating and whether the door is open, rather than maintaining a fixed continuous operation mode
Solution Approach 2:
The control unit continuously monitors the state of the door switch and compressor operation, using this feedback information to determine when to activate or deactivate the power supply for the lamp, ensuring power is only consumed when actually needed
2Use of energy by moving object
If two separate circuits are used (one for monitoring switch state, another for lighting), then power can be available for the lamp when the door is open without continuous power consumption, but additional wiring and modifications are required
Solution Approach 1:
The single power supply circuit serves multiple functions: it powers the compressor control, monitors system state, and provides power to the lamp when needed. This multi-functional approach eliminates the need for separate dedicated circuits while maintaining efficient power management
Solution Approach 2:
The patent combines the switch monitoring function and lamp power supply function into a single integrated circuit controlled by a universal control unit, rather than using separate independent circuits. This merging reduces wiring complexity while achieving the same power-saving effect
3Use of energy by moving object
If the power supply is stopped when the compressor is not running, then power consumption is minimized, but the lamp cannot be lit when the door is open
Solution Approach 1:
The power supply operates dynamically, adjusting its state based on real-time conditions. When the door opens while the compressor is stopped, the system transitions the power supply to an active state to enable lamp operation, then returns to stopped state when the door closes, optimizing both power consumption and functionality
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
This solution effectively conserves power by determining the switch state with minimal power usage and providing necessary power when required, suitable for standard battery-driven refrigeration systems, ensuring extended operation without recharging.
Implementation Method 1
measuring an output voltage of a first power source connected to the electrical circuit and comparing the measured output voltage to a predefined threshold voltage
Implementation Method 2
using a first power source with high internal impedance to detect the switch state
Data Source
AI summary
A method and a control unit (4) for controlling a supply of power to an electrical circuit comprising a switch (3). An output voltage of a first power source (5), which is connected to the circuit, is measured and compared to a predefined threshold voltage. If the measured voltage is smaller than the threshold value it is determined that the switch (3) is in a closed state, and if the voltage is larger than the threshold value it is determined that the switch (3) is in an open state. The supply of power is controlled in accordance with the open/closed state of the switch (3). Preferably, the electrical circuit is connected to a second power source (9) when the switch (3) is in a closed state. Power is conserved while it is ensured that sufficient power is available when needed. The invention is very suitable for supplying power to a lamp (1) positioned inside a refrigeration compartment (2), especially when the system is battery powered.