Power Boost Regulator for Dynamic Voltage Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional power generation systems in recreational vehicles operate at a fixed load voltage, leading to reduced power output at low and high engine speeds, compromising between engine starting and high-speed power needs, and often result in overheating and insufficient battery charging, especially during manual start systems and plow operations.
Innovation Solution
A power boost regulator utilizing low loss field effect transistors (FETs) for switching transformations, allowing load-matched voltage operation across the entire RPM range, thereby increasing power output without altering the stator or flywheel, and prioritizing power distribution to critical loads.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a fixed load voltage is used throughout the RPM range, then the charging system can operate at a selected voltage, but power output is reduced at low and high engine speeds and the system must compromise between starting power and high-speed power needs
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic voltage regulation by allowing the load voltage to vary with engine speed. The regulator adjusts the voltage according to the RPM range: lower voltages at low speeds and higher voltages at high speeds, transforming the fixed voltage system into a dynamic one that adapts to operating conditions to maximize power output across the entire RPM range
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the voltage parameter dynamically based on engine speed. By modifying the operating voltage as a variable parameter rather than keeping it fixed, the system optimizes power delivery at different RPM levels, allowing higher power extraction at high speeds while maintaining adequate voltage at low speeds for starting
2Power
If large currents are produced by the magneto to provide required vehicle power at fixed load voltage, then power needs are met, but air-cooled engines are prone to overheating
Solution Approach 1:
The patent reduces temperature by changing the voltage parameter to match load requirements. At high power demands, the regulator increases voltage, which reduces the current required to deliver the same power (P=VI). This parameter change lowers I²R losses and heat generation in the magneto and wiring, preventing overheating while maintaining adequate power delivery
3Power
If magneto size is scaled to meet increasing electrical power demands, then power output increases, but cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts additional power from the existing magneto by changing the operating voltage parameter dynamically. Instead of scaling up the magneto size, the regulator optimizes the electrical parameters (voltage and current) to maximize power extraction from the current magneto, thereby increasing power output without increasing manufacturing cost
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies partial action by using the existing magneto capacity more efficiently through intelligent voltage regulation. Rather than installing a larger magneto, the system extracts more power from the current one by optimizing its operating parameters, achieving increased power output with only partial utilization enhancement of the existing component
4Ease of operation
If fixed load voltage is used, then system operation is simplified, but battery charge level is not sufficiently maintained during high-demand operations like plowing
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic voltage regulation that responds to battery charge needs. During high-demand operations, the regulator increases voltage to maximize charging current to the battery, ensuring adequate charge maintenance. This dynamic adjustment maintains reliability without complicating system operation, as the voltage changes are automatic and transparent to the operator
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
The power boost regulator enhances power output across a broader range of engine speeds, improves engine starting reliability, and maintains proper battery charging during high-demand operations like plowing, without increasing costs or heat generation.
Implementation Method 1
the regulator utilizes low loss field effect transistors (FETs) to implement switching transformations
Implementation Method 2
the power boost regulator induces a desired voltage/current combination at the stator for each engine speed to provide the demanded electrical load
Data Source
AI summary
A power generation system is provided including a power boost regulator operative to provide load matched voltage operation of an AC power source.