Power Extraction from Conductors Using Segmented Windings and MOSFETs
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing power extraction technologies from current-carrying conductors are inefficient in extracting large amounts of power and lack control over the extraction process, often resulting in power wastage as heat due to the use of conventional diodes for rectification.
Innovation Solution
The use of multiple secondary windings without direct connection, shunting to regulate power generation, and MOSFET transistors for efficient 'cold' power regulation, allowing for controlled power extraction from a conductor's magnetic field.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of energy
If conventional diodes are used for rectification in power extraction, then the circuit is simple, but significant power is lost as heat
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the key parameter of the rectification component from conventional diodes to MOSFET transistors. MOSFETs have much lower on-resistance compared to diodes, reducing the voltage drop and power dissipation during current conduction. This parameter change directly addresses the energy loss problem while accepting increased circuit complexity, as MOSFET-based rectification requires additional control circuitry for proper operation.
2Ease of operation
If multiple secondary windings are connected directly together, then the power extraction is simple, but control over power extraction is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the secondary winding into multiple separate windings instead of using a single winding or directly connected windings. Each secondary winding can be independently controlled through its own switch, allowing granular control over power extraction. This segmentation enables the system to adjust power extraction levels by selectively activating or deactivating individual windings, balancing ease of operation with controlled functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements dynamic control of power extraction by using switches (such as MOSFETs) to selectively connect or disconnect each secondary winding from the circuit. This dynamic configuration allows the system to adapt power extraction levels in real-time based on load requirements, transforming a static direct-connection approach into a dynamically controllable system.
3Adaptability or versatility
If a single large secondary winding is used, then the device structure is simple, but the ability to regulate power extraction is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments a single large secondary winding into multiple smaller secondary windings, each capable of being independently controlled. This segmentation provides adaptability in power regulation by allowing selective activation of windings based on power demand, while maintaining a relatively simple overall transformer structure with multiple windings on the same core.
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 approach significantly increases power harvesting efficiency, enabling the extraction of substantial power (up to 50-70 watts) while minimizing heat generation and power losses, with the ability to control the amount of power extracted.
Implementation Method 1
A conductor placed in a changing magnetic field will experience a force resulting in electromagnetic induction. Thus, by placing conductors in the vicinity of power lines, one can extract power directly from the line without physical contact.
Implementation Method 2
The use of multiple secondary windings without direct connection, shunting to regulate power generation, and MOSFET transistors for efficient 'cold' power regulation, allowing for controlled power extraction from a conductor's magnetic field.
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 1a
Figure 2~3
AI summary
The present invention relates to extracting power from a current-carrying conductor's magnetic field and regulate to a stable DC voltage power source. The regulated DC voltage can be used to power the internal electronic circuitry of the power supply unit (PSU) and for powering external measurement devices and/or surveillance equipment's mounted into the device housing or onto the current-carrying conductors, such as phase wire, along with the PSU.