Persistent DC Power Panel Conversion for AC-Compatible Distribution

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing AC power systems are inefficient and inconvenient, as they require frequent conversion of AC to DC for electronic devices, leading to energy waste and environmental issues, and lack persistent DC power availability, especially with renewable energy sources like solar and wind.

Innovation Solution

Converting an AC power panel into a persistent DC power panel using a persistent DC power switch that integrates AC and DC power sources, allowing for efficient use of regenerated DC energy and providing continuous DC power with a cost-effective backup solution using AC power.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Loss of energy

If AC power is used in existing infrastructure, then compatibility with current systems is maintained, but energy efficiency deteriorates due to repeated AC-DC conversion losses

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveenergy wasteVSAvoidcompatibility with current AC systems

Core Design Contradiction:

Loss of energyVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The patent merges AC power input capability with DC power output capability into a single power panel system. The power panel receives AC power from the grid and internally converts it to DC power, while also accepting DC power from renewable sources. This unified approach eliminates the need for separate AC distribution and multiple AC-DC converters at device level, reducing energy losses while maintaining compatibility with existing AC infrastructure.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The power panel is designed with multi-functionality to handle multiple power sources and distribution modes. It can accept AC power from the grid, DC power from renewable sources, or both simultaneously. The panel can distribute power in AC or DC mode depending on configuration and load requirements. This universal design allows the system to adapt to different scenarios without requiring complete infrastructure replacement.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Loss of energy

If DC power is used for electronic devices, then energy efficiency is improved, but power availability deteriorates when renewable sources are unavailable

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveenergy efficiencyVSAvoidpower availability

Core Design Contradiction:

Loss of energyVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The power panel incorporates energy storage capability to cushion against power availability issues. When renewable DC power sources are available, excess energy is stored in batteries or capacitors integrated in the panel. When renewable sources are unavailable, the stored energy is automatically discharged to maintain continuous DC power supply. This beforehand cushioning ensures reliable power availability without requiring complete infrastructure replacement.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #11Beforehand cushioning (Prior cushioning)

Solution Approach 2:

The power panel dynamically switches between different power sources based on availability and system needs. It can operate in AC mode, DC mode, or hybrid mode, and can seamlessly transition between these modes. The system dynamically manages power flow from multiple sources (grid AC, renewable DC, energy storage) to optimize efficiency and ensure continuous availability, adapting to changing conditions in real-time.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

3Device complexity

If AC power distribution is used, then infrastructure complexity is minimized, but energy loss increases due to reactance and Eddy currents

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveinfrastructure complexityVSAvoidenergy loss

Core Design Contradiction:

Device complexityVSLoss of energy

Solution Approach 1:

The patent substitutes the traditional AC power distribution mechanism with a DC distribution mechanism at the building level. Instead of distributing AC power through the entire infrastructure and converting to DC at each device, the system converts to DC once at the power panel and distributes DC power through existing wiring. This substitution eliminates continuous AC-DC conversion losses while utilizing the existing physical infrastructure, reducing energy loss without proportionally increasing complexity.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

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

Enables a DC ubiquitous environment with reduced energy waste, minimized e-waste, and consistent DC power availability without significant retrofitting, improving energy efficiency and convenience in building power distribution.

Implementation Method 1

The persistent DC power module converts AC power to DC power

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectAC to DC conversion:

Implementation Method 2

The persistent power switch retains the same AC main switch in power panel and incorporates a new persistent DC power module in the switch to facilitate the generation and the re-direction of DC power for output from the power panel

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectPower switching and direction control:

Data Source

PatentUS11837968B2Apparatus and method for persistent DC power panel conversion

Publication Date: 2023.12.05 ENTRANTECH INC

AI summary

An apparatus converts an AC power panel into a persistent DC power panel with a persistent power switch. The persistent power switch includes a removable power unit for coupling to the AC power switch in order to convert the AC power panel into a persistent DC power panel. The removable power unit can be mounted in the power panel or can be implemented as a stand-alone external device for connecting to the power panel.