Recirculating bath with global voltage compatibility
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional recirculating baths require custom parts and hardware variations to accommodate different power grid standards across regions, increasing manufacturing and distribution costs due to the need for multiple versions and replacement parts.
Innovation Solution
A recirculating bath with a main power input configured to receive alternating current, featuring a heating element selectively coupled to the power input via an activation signal with a duty cycle set based on the voltage, and a direct current power unit providing a voltage independent of the alternating current, allowing operation across various voltage ranges.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional recirculating baths are configured for specific regional power grid standards, then they can operate reliably with local voltage requirements, but manufacturers must maintain multiple versions and parts inventory increasing costs
Solution Approach 1:
The controller is designed to universally accept multiple AC voltage inputs (e.g., 115V, 208V, 230V) and automatically adapt its operation. The heating element and motor are configured to function across different voltage ranges through automated controller management, eliminating the need for region-specific hardware versions.
Solution Approach 2:
The controller dynamically adjusts operational parameters such as duty cycle, power delivery, and component activation based on the detected input voltage. This allows the same hardware configuration to reliably operate across different voltage standards by changing control parameters rather than physical components.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple versions of recirculating baths are maintained for different regions, then regional power requirements are met, but inventory tracking and stock management become more complex
Solution Approach 1:
A single universal model of recirculating bath is designed to serve multiple regional markets by accepting various AC voltage inputs. This eliminates the need for manufacturers to produce and track multiple region-specific versions, simplifying inventory management while maintaining global adaptability.
3Adaptability or versatility
If AC electric motors and heating elements are selected based on regional power availability, then local power standards are accommodated, but manufacturing and distribution costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The recirculating bath is designed with universal power compatibility, allowing the same unit to be distributed globally without region-specific customization. This reduces manufacturing complexity and distribution costs while maintaining adaptability to different power grid standards through the intelligent controller.
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 operation with a wide range of AC voltages, reducing the need for multiple units and parts, lowering costs and simplifying inventory management, while maintaining temperature control of the working liquid.
Implementation Method 1
the heater draws AC current that is passed through resistive heating elements that convert the electric power into heat
Implementation Method 2
The compressor circulates a refrigerant through a series of evaporating and condensing heat exchangers to remove heat from the working liquid
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 2A
AI summary
A recirculating bath includes a main power input configured to receive an alternating current and a heating element that is selectively coupled to the main power input. The heating element is selectively coupled to the main power input in response to an activation signal having a duty cycle. The duty cycle of the activation signal is determined based on a voltage of the alternating current, with the duty cycle being reduced in response to an increase in the voltage of the alternating current. The heating element is thereby de-rated at higher alternating current voltages. A power unit coupled to the main power input provides direct current having a voltage independent of the alternating current voltage to portions of the recirculating bath, such as direct current motors coupled to a compressor and recirculating pump. The recirculating bath is thereby configured to operate with a range of alternating current voltages.