Switchable Float Power Supply for Multi-Voltage Operation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Amusement park parade floats face limitations in power systems due to limited space for multiple batteries providing different output voltages, leading to restricted usage time when batteries cannot be quickly recharged to match power consumption.
Innovation Solution
A power system that includes a first and second power source, an interlocked contactor, and a selector switch, allowing switching between a battery bank and an AC power source to provide power at various voltages, enabling extended operation without the need for multiple batteries and allowing tool-free changeovers.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple batteries are used to provide different output voltages, then power flexibility is improved, but space requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a universal power source system where a single battery bank can provide multiple output voltages (12V, 24V, 48V) through DC-DC converters. This eliminates the need for multiple separate batteries while maintaining the flexibility to power various float features requiring different voltages. The interlocked contactor system enables seamless switching between different voltage outputs from the same battery bank.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the electrical parameters (voltage levels) by using DC-DC converters that can transform the battery bank's output to different voltage levels. Instead of using multiple batteries with fixed different voltages, the system maintains a single battery bank and dynamically changes the output voltage parameter through electronic conversion, thereby reducing space while maintaining adaptability.
2Ease of operation
If batteries are used for power supply, then portability is improved, but operation duration is limited when power consumption exceeds recharging speed
Solution Approach 1:
The power system is designed to accept multiple power sources (battery bank and AC power source) and function in different modes (DC mode with batteries, AC mode with external power). This multi-functionality allows the float to operate portably using batteries when needed, while also enabling extended operation duration by connecting to AC power when available, thus resolving the contradiction between portability and operation duration.
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically switches between different power sources based on availability and operational needs. The interlocked contactor enables seamless transition between battery power and AC power, allowing the float to adapt its power source in real-time. This dynamic capability ensures the float maintains portability while extending operation duration by utilizing external power when available.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple batteries are used for different voltages, then power distribution flexibility is improved, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the functions of multiple batteries into a single battery bank system with DC-DC converters. Instead of having separate batteries for 12V, 24V, and 48V outputs, the system combines them into one unified power source that electronically transforms to different voltages. The interlocked contactor merges the switching functions into a single coordinated mechanism, reducing overall system complexity while maintaining power distribution flexibility.
Solution Approach 2:
DC-DC converters act as intermediaries between the single battery bank and the various voltage requirements of float features. Rather than directly connecting multiple batteries to different circuits, the converters mediate the power transformation, simplifying the system architecture while maintaining the ability to provide different voltages where needed.
4Duration of action of moving object
If quick recharging is implemented to match power consumption, then operation duration is improved, but space and cost for charging infrastructure increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system enables preliminary charging action by allowing the battery bank to be charged from AC power when the float is stationary or not in use. The interlocked contactor system facilitates this by enabling AC power to charge the batteries during non-operational periods. This preliminary charging extends operation duration without requiring large onboard charging infrastructure during active use.
Solution Approach 2:
The system maintains continuous useful action by enabling the float to operate on batteries during parade use, then continuously recharge from AC power when returned to storage or stationary位置. This continuous cycle of discharge during use and charge during storage extends the effective operation duration without requiring oversized batteries or complex onboard charging systems.
Data Source
AI summary
A power system for a parade float includes a first power source, a second power source, and an interlocked contactor. The power system also includes a selector switch coupled to the interlocked contactor, wherein the interlocked contactor is configured, in response to selection of a power source from among the first power source and the second power source with the selector switch, to switch between the first power source and the second power source for outputting power to the parade float with the selected power source.