Single-Wire Power Transmission for Lower-Loss Energy Distribution
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Solution Overview
Problem
Three-phase electrical energy transmission systems are expensive, prone to energy losses due to discoordination, not weather-resistant, and costly for underground and underwater applications, and require numerous synchronization devices for renewable energy integration, especially for electric vehicle charging.
Innovation Solution
A system that converts electrical energy from multiple wires into single-wire currents with increased voltage, using step-up and step-down transformers, switches, and converters to distribute energy efficiently to various consumers, including electric vehicle charging stations, while utilizing multi-wire and renewable energy sources.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Power
If a three-phase electrical energy transmission line is used, then electrical energy can be transmitted to areas with consumers, but the transmission line becomes very expensive
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple single-wire transmission lines into a single consolidated transmission path. By merging the transmission functions and using a single-wire system with voltage transformation, the overall system cost is reduced while maintaining the capability to transmit electrical energy to multiple areas.
Solution Approach 2:
The single-wire transmission system with voltage transformation capabilities serves multiple functions: it can transmit energy to different areas, support different voltage levels, and accommodate various consumer types (including electric vehicle charging). This multi-functionality replaces the need for separate three-phase lines for each function.
2Adaptability or versatility
If branches are extended from the three-phase electrical energy transmission line, then energy can be supplied to different areas, but discoordination occurs leading to energy losses
Solution Approach 1:
The system segments the energy distribution into independent single-wire transmission paths with individual voltage transformation at each destination. Instead of branching from a single three-phase line, each area receives energy through its own transformed single-wire connection, eliminating discoordination issues while maintaining the ability to supply multiple areas.
3Power
If the three-phase electrical energy transmission line is exposed to weather, then energy transmission is possible, but the system is not protected from weather influence and cannot use underground or underwater methods
Solution Approach 1:
The single-wire transmission system uses simpler, more robust construction that can be easily laid underground or underwater. The single-wire design with protective insulation is more resistant to weather conditions and can be installed in environments where three-phase lines cannot operate, effectively eliminating weather-related limitations.
4Adaptability or versatility
If a three-phase signal system is used for electric vehicle charging, then charging capability is provided, but the charging devices become very expensive
Solution Approach 1:
The system transforms the electrical parameters from a complex three-phase signal to a simplified single-wire system with controlled voltage levels. By adjusting the voltage and current parameters in the single-wire system, electric vehicle charging capability is maintained while eliminating the need for expensive three-phase charging infrastructure.
5Power
If the three-phase electrical energy system is used, then energy transmission is possible, but commutation of energy supply lines cannot be provided
Solution Approach 1:
The single-wire system incorporates dynamic switching capabilities that allow commutation of energy supply lines. The system can dynamically redirect energy flow to different destinations and adjust voltage levels in real-time, providing flexibility and adaptability that rigid three-phase systems cannot achieve.
6Adaptability or versatility
If renewable energy sources are introduced into the three-phase electrical energy transmission line, then energy from reusable sources can be utilized, but a great number of expensive synchronization devices are required
Solution Approach 1:
The single-wire system with its simplified voltage transformation architecture reduces the complexity of integrating renewable energy sources. By using single-wire voltage transformation instead of three-phase synchronization, the system can incorporate renewable energy sources with fewer and less expensive devices, as the parameter transformation is simpler and more direct.
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 reduces energy losses, allows for underground transmission, lowers infrastructure costs, and enhances efficiency by minimizing mutual influence between wires, enabling cost-effective and resilient electrical energy distribution.
Implementation Method 1
a step-up transformer receiving the electric currents transmitted through different numbers of wires and converting them into a single-wire electric current with an increased voltage
Implementation Method 2
a step-down transformer receiving the transmitted single-wire electric current and reducing its voltage
Data Source
AI summary
For transmitting electrical energy different electric currents are transmitted through different numbers of wires from a plurality of sources, converted into single-wire electric currents with increased voltage, transmitted through a single-wire electrical current transmission line, converted into several electric currents with the reduced voltage and supplied to corresponding consumers.