Parallel Semiconductor Switching for Screed Heating Continuity
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing road paver systems face challenges with high energy consumption and maintenance costs due to the continuous operation of electrical heating elements in the screed, leading to inefficient energy use and potential overheating of switching devices.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of an electrical switching device with two semiconductor switching devices connected in parallel, allowing alternating power supply to the heating elements, which reduces the need for high-rated switching devices and prevents overheating by alternating current flow through each device.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If high-rated switching devices are used to continuously supply power to heating elements, then reliable heating is ensured, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies periodic action by alternating the power supply between two switching devices in a defined sequence. Instead of continuously operating one high-rated switching device, the system switches between multiple lower-rated devices in periodic intervals, reducing the required rating of individual switching devices while maintaining continuous heating functionality.
2Duration of action of stationary object
If continuous current flows through switching devices, then uninterrupted heating is achieved, but overheating of switching devices occurs
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements periodic action by systematically alternating current flow between two switching devices. Each device operates intermittently rather than continuously, allowing periodic cooling intervals that prevent overheating while maintaining continuous heating through the alternation between devices.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies segmentation by dividing the continuous power supply task between two separate switching devices. Instead of one device handling the entire continuous load, the function is segmented across multiple devices, distributing the thermal burden and enabling better heat management.
3Device complexity
If lower-rated switching devices are used, then cost and complexity are reduced, but continuous power supply capability is compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The patent resolves this contradiction by using periodic action with multiple lower-rated switching devices working in alternation. The combined power supply capability of the devices in sequence matches or exceeds that of a single high-rated device, while individual device ratings remain lower, reducing cost and complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies merging by combining the functionality of multiple lower-rated switching devices to achieve the power supply capability of a single high-rated device. The devices work together in a coordinated manner through alternation, effectively merging their individual capabilities to meet the overall power requirement.
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 reduces energy consumption and maintenance costs by using lower-rated switching devices and prevents overheating, ensuring efficient and economical operation of the screed heating system.
Implementation Method 1
heating of the switching devices during operation can be reduced
Data Source
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AI summary
The road paver (1) comprises a tractor (3) with a material hopper (5) for receiving the paving material and a screed (9) for compacting the paving material. The screed (9) comprises at least one electric heating device (15) for heating the screed (9). The road paver (1) comprises at least one electrical switching device (37) configured to switch an electrical power supply to the electric heating device (15). The electrical switching device (37) comprises an electrical parallel connection of two switching devices (39), wherein the electrical parallel connection of the two switching devices (39) forms an electrical series connection with the electric heating device (15).