Multi-Load Power Control Using Combined Current Correction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional systems for heating or cooling with multiple loads require complex control processing and multiple current detectors to manage variations in load characteristics, leading to increased complexity and cost.
Innovation Solution
A power control device that measures combined current values across multiple loads, calculates a correction value based on operation output and rated currents, and adjusts power supply to maintain consistent output, using a single current detector and updating the correction value periodically with an adjustment factor to account for changes in load resistance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If multiple current detectors are used to measure current of each load, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple current measurements into a single measurement by using one current detector to measure the total current of all loads connected in parallel. The controller then calculates individual load currents by subtracting previously measured currents from the total, eliminating the need for multiple detectors while maintaining measurement capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a calculation-based intermediary approach where the controller acts as an intermediary between the single current detector and the multiple loads. Instead of directly measuring each load's current, the system uses mathematical operations (subtraction from total current) to derive individual load currents, reducing hardware complexity.
2Measurement precision
If multiple current detectors are used to measure current of each load, then measurement precision is improved, but manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the function of multiple current detectors into a single detector by measuring the total current of parallel-connected loads. This reduction in component count directly lowers manufacturing costs while the controller's calculation capability compensates for the reduced hardware measurement capacity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces expensive multiple current detectors with a single detector combined with computational processing. The system uses software-based current calculation (subtracting individual load currents from total current) instead of hardware-based individual measurements, reducing component costs.
3Reliability
If conventional control processing is used for multiple loads, then control accuracy is maintained, but processing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the control process into distinct phases: measuring total current, storing previous current values, calculating individual load currents through subtraction, and applying correction values. This structured segmentation simplifies the control logic while maintaining accuracy by systematically addressing each load's current contribution.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements feedback by storing previous current measurement values and using them to calculate individual load currents. The system continuously updates correction values based on the difference between expected and actual currents, creating a closed-loop control mechanism that maintains accuracy without complex processing.
Data Source
AI summary
Provided is a power control device 100 comprising: a current detector 31 that measures a combined current value obtained by combining currents flowing through a plurality of loads 1-4; and an output calculation unit 11 that calculates a correction value obtained by dividing a total value of products of operation output values for the loads 1-4 and rated current values of the loads 1-4, respectively, by the combined current value obtained by the current detector 31, and that performs power supply control for the loads 1-4 on the basis of a corrected operation output value that is a product of the operation output value and the correction value for each of the loads 1-4, in which in a system that heats or cools a workpiece by means of a plurality of loads, heating control or cooling control can be performed in which an effect of a fluctuation in load characteristics is reduced.