Timed Coil Drive Circuit for Low-EMI Switch Hold Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Electrical units and systems are susceptible to performance inconsistencies due to temperature changes and generate significant electromagnetic interference, particularly in applications involving contactors and relays.
Innovation Solution
An electrical unit comprising a current controller with an electrical regulator, control circuit, and timer, configured to provide different output signals for controlling a switch's coil, minimizing power consumption and compensating for temperature variations, while reducing electromagnetic interference through strategic placement of filters and feedback circuits.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If continuous power is provided to the coil to maintain switch closure, then reliable switch operation is achieved, but power consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies periodic action by using a timer to periodically recharge the capacitor that drives the coil, rather than providing continuous power. The controller periodically activates the switch to recharge the capacitor, allowing the coil to maintain sufficient charge to keep the switch closed without continuous power input, thus reducing power consumption while maintaining reliable operation
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements self-service through the capacitor's ability to store energy and maintain the switch closure state autonomously. Once charged, the capacitor provides power to the coil to maintain the closed state without requiring continuous external power input, enabling the system to sustain its state using stored energy
2Reliability
If electrical regulator operates in first mode to provide sufficient current, then switch activation is achieved, but power consumption is high
Solution Approach 1:
The electrical regulator periodically switches between first mode (high current for activation) and second mode (low current for maintenance) based on timer signals. The regulator provides high current only during brief activation periods when the switch needs to be closed, then transitions to low current mode to maintain the state, significantly reducing overall power consumption while ensuring reliable activation when needed
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies dynamics by making the regulator's output dynamic rather than static. The regulator adapts its current output based on operational needs - providing high current during activation events and reducing to minimal current during maintenance periods, allowing the system to optimize between activation reliability and power consumption
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
The solution ensures consistent performance across varying temperatures and reduces electromagnetic interference, maintaining efficient power management and reliable operation of electrical switches.
Implementation Method 1
a timer connected to a second input of the electrical regulator. The current controller may be configured to transition from the first mode to the second mode based on an output of the timer
Implementation Method 2
an electrical regulator, a control circuit connected to a first input of the electrical regulator, and/or a timer connected to a second input of the electrical regulator
Implementation Method 3
The switch may include a coil. The electrical unit may be configured to provide the first output signal to the coil in the first mode and provide the second output signal to the coil in the second mode
Data Source
AI summary
An electrical unit may include a current controller including an electrical regulator, a control circuit connected to a first input of the electrical regulator, a timer connected to a second input of the electrical regulator, and/or a turn-off circuit including a turn-off switch. The current controller may be configured to provide a first output signal in a first mode and a second output signal in a second mode. The current controller may be configured to transition from the first mode to the second mode based on a timer output of the timer. An electrical system may include an electrical unit and or a switch connected to the electrical unit. The switch may include a coil. The electrical unit may be configured to provide the first output signal to the coil in the first mode and provide the second output signal to the coil in the second mode.