Power Supply Control Unit for Seamless Series-Parallel Transitions
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional systems with multiple power supplies and loads face disruptions during transitions between power sources, leading to power interruptions and inefficiencies, such as wasted energy in vehicles where battery packs are either used to power or charge, but not both simultaneously.
Innovation Solution
A control unit that interfaces with multiple power supplies and loads, allowing seamless transitions by connecting them in series or parallel configurations, using converters to harmonize voltages and frequencies, enabling one battery pack to power a device while another is charged, without disrupting power supply.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If connections between power supplies and loads are switched in conventional systems, then power supply configuration can be changed, but power interruptions and disruptions occur
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a transition state with intermediary connection points that temporarily connect all power supplies to all loads in parallel. This intermediary configuration allows seamless switching between power supply arrangements without direct disconnection, maintaining continuous power flow throughout the transition process.
Solution Approach 2:
The system establishes preliminary connections in the transition state before finalizing the new power supply configuration. All power supplies are pre-connected to all loads in parallel during the transition state, ensuring power continuity is secured before completing the switching operation.
2Productivity
If battery packs are used to power devices in conventional systems, then devices can operate, but energy that could be generated and stored is wasted
Solution Approach 1:
The patent enables continuous useful action by allowing one battery pack to power devices while another battery pack simultaneously charges from a generator. This concurrent operation eliminates idle time and ensures that energy generation and storage continue without interruption, maximizing overall system productivity and energy utilization.
Solution Approach 2:
The system segments the power management function into independent battery packs, each capable of operating in different modes (discharging to power loads or charging from generator) simultaneously. This segmentation allows parallel execution of power delivery and energy storage functions without mutual interference.
Data Source
AI summary
A control unit connected to power supplies and loads transitions between states to connect supplies and loads in various configurations. In a first state, for example, the first supply and first load are connected in series, and the second supply and second load are connected in series. In a second state, the first supply and second load are connected in series, and the second supply and first load are connected in series. The control unit transitions between states via a transition state in which all supplies and loads are connected in parallel, avoiding load power disruptions. First and second power supplies can be rechargeable battery packs, and first and second loads can be any devices drawing or generating power. If one load is a motor and the other a generator, one battery can power the motor and the other battery can be charged using the generator.