Transformer Switching Device for Uninterruptible Power Supply

Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional transformer systems face challenges in providing stable and uninterrupted power supply due to manual tap switching, which can lead to voltage fluctuations and safety issues, especially with the integration of dispersed power sources like solar and wind power, and are difficult to adjust for varying load characteristics.

Innovation Solution

A switching device with an uninterruptible power supply function, featuring a control unit, current circulation unit, and multiple switches, including insulated-gate bipolar transistors or silicon-controlled rectifiers, that automatically adjusts the transformer's turn ratio and voltage without power interruption by measuring voltage levels and switching between primary winding taps to maintain optimal secondary winding voltage within a predetermined range.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If manual tap switching is used to adjust transformer voltage, then voltage adjustment capability is provided, but power supply interruption and safety issues occur

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvevoltage adjustment capabilityVSAvoidpower supply continuity

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces manual mechanical tap switching with an automated electronic control system using insulated-gate bipolar transistors (IGBTs) or silicon-controlled rectifiers (SCRs). These semiconductor devices are controlled by a microprocessor that automatically selects appropriate taps based on voltage measurements, eliminating the need for manual intervention and ensuring continuous power supply during voltage adjustment operations.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The transformer system performs self-diagnosis and self-adjustment through an embedded microprocessor that continuously monitors voltage levels and automatically switches taps as needed. The system includes self-protection features that detect abnormal conditions and prevent unsafe operations without requiring external intervention, enabling the transformer to maintain optimal performance autonomously.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

2Adaptability or versatility

If manual voltage adjustment is performed, then voltage control is achieved, but operation complexity and safety risks increase

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvevoltage control capabilityVSAvoidoperation simplicity

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces manual mechanical tap switching with an automated electronic control system using insulated-gate bipolar transistors (IGBTs) or silicon-controlled rectifiers (SCRs). These semiconductor devices are controlled by a microprocessor that automatically selects appropriate taps based on voltage measurements, eliminating the need for manual intervention and ensuring continuous power supply during voltage adjustment operations.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The transformer system performs self-diagnosis and self-adjustment through an embedded microprocessor that continuously monitors voltage levels and automatically switches taps as needed. The system includes self-protection features that detect abnormal conditions and prevent unsafe operations without requiring external intervention, enabling the transformer to maintain optimal performance autonomously.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

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 stable and reliable power supply to consumers by automatically adjusting transformer voltages without interruptions, reducing the risk of power fluctuations and enhancing safety by preventing short circuits and electric shocks, while efficiently managing varying load conditions.

Implementation Method 1

a switching device with an uninterruptible power supply function, featuring a control unit, current circulation unit, and multiple switches, including insulated-gate bipolar transistors or silicon-controlled rectifiers, that automatically adjusts the transformer's turn ratio and voltage

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectElectromagnetic induction: Electromagnetic Induction

Data Source

PatentUS7880341B2Switching device for transformer having uninterruptible power supply function, and methods of controlling turn ratio and voltage of the transformer using the same

Publication Date: 2011.02.01 KOREA ELECTRIC POWER CORP

AI summary

A switching device for a transformer allows stable power supply without power interruption when a secondary winding voltage of the transformer is changed in the case of voltage drop on a distribution line due to a load characteristic. The switching device having an uninterruptible power supply function includes a plurality of switches operated by an external signal, a current circulation unit for multiple switches electrically connected to a large-current path of the switches to perform a switch-on function in place of the switches upon switching on and off between the switches, and a control unit electrically connected to the switches and current circulation unit to read voltage values and to apply signals to the switches depending on the voltage values to sequentially switch the switches. Accordingly, the switching device can stably supply power to power consumption sources without power interruption.