Mains Frequency Calibration in Digital Control Systems
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Solution Overview
Problem
The high cost of implementing the Dynamic Demand Control (DDC) function in electrical appliances prevents widespread adoption, as it requires costly high-precision measurement means, making it unsustainable for mass production and diffusion in the market.
Innovation Solution
A method for calibrating digital control systems in electrical appliances to measure mains frequency accurately without needing high-precision measurement tools, using an external standard instrument for initial calibration, which reduces systematic errors and enables DDC functionality without additional costs.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If high-precision measurement means are used to measure mains frequency accurately, then measurement precision is improved, but device cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by performing calibration of the measurement means before actual use. A calibration factor is determined in advance by comparing measurements from the appliance's measurement means with those from a reference instrument, and this calibration factor is stored for later use. This allows low-precision hardware to achieve high measurement accuracy through pre-computed correction values, resolving the contradiction between measurement precision and manufacturing cost.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the parameter of the measurement system by introducing a calibration factor that transforms readings from low-precision measurement means into accurate frequency values. Instead of relying on expensive high-precision hardware, the system modifies the measurement parameter through mathematical correction (multiplication by calibration factor), achieving accurate frequency measurement while using inexpensive components.
2Loss of energy
If dynamic demand control is implemented to balance power demand and supply, then energy distribution efficiency is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies self-service by enabling individual electrical appliances to autonomously measure mains frequency and adjust their own power consumption accordingly. Each appliance independently detects frequency deviations and modulates its demand without requiring complex centralized control infrastructure. This distributed self-regulation approach improves energy distribution efficiency while keeping individual device complexity manageable.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements feedback by continuously monitoring mains frequency and using it as a signal to adjust power demand. The control system measures frequency, compares it with nominal values, and automatically modifies appliance operation in response to frequency deviations. This closed-loop feedback mechanism enables dynamic demand control that balances energy supply and demand while maintaining relatively simple device architecture.
Data Source
AI summary
A method for measuring the mains frequency by a digital control system of an electrical appliance, in particular an electrical household appliance, in which the digital control system is prearranged for performing rigorous measurements of the value of the mains frequency and of its variations through an operation of calibration of the means for measurement of the mains frequency performed prior to marketing of the product.


