Modular Constant Current Regulator for Airfield Lighting
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing constant current regulators (CCRs) for airfield lights face challenges in reliability, cost, and efficiency due to the need for a wide range of products to accommodate different input voltages, frequencies, and power requirements, as well as the complexity of maintaining redundant systems for high availability.
Innovation Solution
A modular CCR design with identical power modules that can be connected in series or parallel, each equipped with its own transformer and microcontroller, communicating through a data network to adapt output power efficiently and reliably, allowing for flexible assembly of CCRs with different ratings using a single transformer type.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a wide range of CCR products is provided to accommodate different input voltages, frequencies, and power requirements, then adaptability is improved, but device complexity and manufacturing cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The CCR is divided into multiple identical power modules, each capable of independent operation. Each module contains its own transformer and control circuitry, allowing the system to be configured in series or parallel to match different power requirements without needing different transformer types.
Solution Approach 2:
A single transformer design serves multiple functions by being used in identical power modules that can be configured in different arrangements (series or parallel connections) to accommodate various input voltages, frequencies, and power requirements, eliminating the need for multiple transformer types.
2Reliability
If redundant CCR units are installed for high availability, then reliability is improved, but space requirements and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system is segmented into independent power modules that can operate autonomously. If one module fails, the others continue to provide power, enabling graceful degradation without requiring complete backup units, thus reducing space requirements while maintaining reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The modular architecture allows dynamic reconfiguration and operation in degraded modes. The system can adapt its operational configuration based on the number of functioning modules, maintaining power supply reliability without requiring fixed redundant backup units.
3Ease of manufacture
If identical power modules are used in series or parallel connections, then manufacturing cost is reduced, but control complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Each power module contains its own microcontroller and control circuitry, enabling autonomous operation and self-management. The modules communicate through a data network to coordinate their operation, with each module independently regulating its own output based on system requirements, thereby simplifying overall control architecture.
Solution Approach 2:
The control system uses feedback communication between modules through a data network to coordinate series or parallel operations. Each module monitors its own performance and exchanges status information with other modules, enabling automatic adjustment of operating parameters to maintain system stability.
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 modular approach reduces manufacturing costs, increases reliability by allowing seamless module addition or removal, and enhances efficiency by optimizing power output, while maintaining high reliability and adaptability to varying power demands.
Implementation Method 1
each power module 13 comprising an input stage 132-134 and an output stage 136-138 galvanically separated by a transformer 135
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3~3B
AI summary
Constant current regulator (10) for supplying a series circuit (9) of a lighting installation with an output electrical power corresponding to a predetermined output power, comprising a plurality of modules (13) electrically connectable for simultaneous operation to jointly provide the output power, the modules being each configured for providing a module output power contributing to the output power of the regulator. Each module comprises its proper transformer (135) for providing galvanic insulation as required by local standards, and a microcontroller (231) for controlling operation of the module. The constant current regulator comprises a data communication network (17) configured to be connected to the microcontrollers (231) of the modules (13), wherein the microcontrollers (231) are operable to exchange data over the data communication network (17) so as to make the constant current regulator (10) modular, meaning that one or more of such modules (13) can be added to or removed from the constant current regulator.