Transfer Switch Control Module Solenoid Duty Cycle
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current transfer switch systems experience unpredictable and undesirable variations in transfer time due to changes in voltage and current amplitudes, as well as ambient temperature, leading to inconsistent and inefficient switching between power sources.
Innovation Solution
A system comprising a power modulation circuit and a control module that senses operating conditions to determine control parameters, adjusting the duty cycle of a control signal to optimize the current provided to the solenoid, thereby ensuring predictable and repeatable transfer switching between power sources.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the solenoid is operated via a normally open switch connection to the power source, then the transfer switch can be controlled to transfer the load between power sources, but the transfer time becomes unpredictable and undesirable due to variations in voltage amplitude, current amplitude, and ambient temperature
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies parameter changes by dynamically adjusting the duty cycle of the control signal based on sensed operating conditions (voltage amplitude, current amplitude, temperature). The control module modifies the duty cycle parameter to compensate for variations in power source characteristics and environmental conditions, thereby maintaining consistent transfer time and resolving the contradiction between reliability and time loss.
2Use of energy by moving object
If the solenoid current or voltage amplitude decreases, then the transfer switch can operate with lower power input, but the transfer time increases undesirably
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamics by making the duty cycle adjustable and responsive to operating conditions. Instead of using a fixed duty cycle, the control module dynamically modifies it based on sensed voltage, current, and temperature. This allows the system to optimize the balance between power consumption and transfer speed by increasing duty cycle when slower operation is acceptable and decreasing it when faster transfer is needed.
3Temperature
If the ambient temperature increases, then the system can operate in higher temperature environments, but the current through the solenoid decreases causing increased transfer time
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements feedback by using a temperature sensor to monitor ambient temperature and feeding this information back to the control module. The control module then adjusts the duty cycle in response to temperature changes, compensating for the decrease in solenoid current caused by higher temperatures. This feedback mechanism maintains consistent transfer time and reliability across different temperature conditions.
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 reduces transfer time variability, enhances the reliability of power transfers by synchronizing operations with waveform zero crossings, and prevents damage by monitoring voltage levels, ensuring efficient and reliable switching between power sources.
Implementation Method 1
a switching mechanism that is magnetically coupled to a solenoid. When a control current is provided to the solenoid, the switching mechanism toggles its position
Implementation Method 2
a rectifier configured to perform functions. The functions include rectifying alternating current received from the first power supply or the second power supply and providing the rectified current to the solenoid
Data Source
AI summary
An example system for controlling a transfer switch includes a power modulation circuit and a control module. When the power modulation circuit is coupled to a solenoid of a transfer switch, a first power supply, and a second power supply, the control module is configured to perform functions. The functions include sensing one or more operating conditions of the system and using the one or more operating conditions of the system as a basis to determine one or more control parameters. The functions also include controlling, according to the one or more control parameters, the power modulation circuit to cause the second power supply to provide a current through the solenoid, thereby operating the transfer switch to discontinue a conductive path between a load and the first power supply and create a conductive path between the load and the second power supply.