Portable Power Sharing via Inverter Circuits for Generator Networks
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Solution Overview
Problem
In camping settings, portable generators often run out of fuel, preventing the use of electronic appliances, and there is no efficient way to share excess power between generators, leading to inefficiencies and limitations in power supply.
Innovation Solution
A power supply system comprising portable power supply devices with power generation units, storage units, monitoring, and decision-making capabilities, allowing for the sharing of excess power between devices via a network-connected power line, using inverter circuits to convert power for alternating current supply.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Duration of action of moving object
If portable generators are used in camping settings, then power supply to electronic appliances is enabled, but fuel depletion occurs preventing continuous operation
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple portable power supply devices are merged into a networked system where they can share resources. When one device has excess power generation capacity, it can supply power to other devices that need it, effectively combining their operational capacities and extending overall operation duration without proportional fuel consumption increase.
Solution Approach 2:
The system enables self-service through automated power sharing where power supply devices automatically detect and supply excess power to neighboring devices that need it, without requiring manual intervention. This allows the network to self-regulate and optimize fuel usage across all devices.
2Productivity
If each portable generator operates independently, then device complexity is minimized, but power utilization efficiency decreases due to inability to share excess power
Solution Approach 1:
The system is segmented into independent modular power supply devices that each maintain their own operational independence while connecting to a shared network. This segmentation allows individual devices to remain simple while the collective system achieves high power utilization efficiency through coordinated operation.
Solution Approach 2:
A communication network acts as an intermediary between portable power supply devices, enabling them to exchange power availability information and coordinate power sharing. This intermediary layer allows complex power optimization without requiring direct complex interactions between each device pair.
3Reliability
If portable generators supply power to loads continuously, then power availability to users is maintained, but fuel consumption increases unnecessarily when excess power cannot be shared
Solution Approach 1:
The system implements feedback mechanisms where each power supply device monitors its own power generation status, storage capacity, and the power needs of neighboring devices. This feedback enables devices to adjust their operation dynamically, supplying power when they have excess capacity and consuming power when their storage is sufficient, thereby maintaining reliability while minimizing energy waste.
Solution Approach 2:
The power supply system operates dynamically rather than statically, with each device continuously adjusting its power generation and consumption based on real-time conditions. When a device's power storage reaches a predetermined threshold, it automatically reduces or stops power generation, adapting its operation to current system needs and preventing unnecessary fuel consumption.
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 the efficient sharing of excess power between portable generators, ensuring continuous power supply to loads and reducing fuel consumption by allowing generators to conserve energy when receiving power from others, thus enhancing power utilization and user convenience in independent power networks.
Implementation Method 1
The supply unit may comprise an inverter circuit configured to convert at least a portion of the excess power into an alternating current
Data Source
AI summary
A power supply system comprises a portable first power supply device and second power supply device. The portable first power supply device has a handle to be gripped by a hand of a user. A supply unit of the portable first power supply comprises an inverter circuit which converts at least a portion of excess power into an alternating current, and supplies to the second power supply device via a second connection unit and a power line, power of the alternating current outputted from the inverter circuit.