TVS Device with SAS Diode for AC Transient Suppression
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Solution Overview
Problem
Electrical protection systems for vehicles, such as boats, are limited in their ability to protect against high-voltage transients, which can cause damage to sensitive electronic equipment, and often lack comprehensive protection across various power sources and voltage ranges, leading to risks like electrocution when power is grounded into water.
Innovation Solution
A transient voltage suppressor (TVS) device combined with a Ground Fault Detector (GFD) and alarm system, utilizing a Silicon Avalanche Suppressor (SAS) to limit transient voltages and detect AC powerline reversals, providing protection even when the vehicle is disconnected from an external power source, and featuring remote status monitoring capabilities.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a conventional electrical protection system is used, then it can detect and protect against limited voltage changes within a specific range, but it cannot protect against high-voltage transients that exceed its designed range
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a transient voltage suppressor (TVS) device that dynamically changes its electrical parameters based on the magnitude of voltage transients. The TVS device operates in different modes depending on the voltage level: it remains non-conductive during normal operation and only activates when voltage exceeds a threshold, allowing it to handle both normal and extreme voltage conditions effectively.
Solution Approach 2:
The protection system transitions from a static protection approach to a dynamic one by incorporating a TVS device that responds in real-time to voltage conditions. The system adapts its protection level based on the severity of the transient, providing minimal interference during normal operation and maximum protection during high-voltage events.
2Reliability
If electrical protection systems are installed at docks, then vehicles can be protected against voltage changes, but protection is not available at locations without such systems
Solution Approach 1:
The patent describes a portable protection device that can be universally applied to various power sources including shore power, generators, and alternative power sources. The device incorporates multiple functions: transient voltage suppression, ground fault detection, and polarity reversal detection, making it adaptable to different operating conditions and locations without requiring infrastructure changes.
Solution Approach 2:
The protection device is designed to be self-contained and portable, eliminating the need for external protection infrastructure at docks. The device includes its own power management, detection circuits, and alarm systems, allowing it to provide protection independently wherever the vehicle operates.
3Ease of operation
If the electrical protection system monitors power within a limited voltage range, then it can operate within designed parameters, but it allows damage when voltage changes exceed the designed range
Solution Approach 1:
The TVS device is positioned to provide preliminary protection before voltage transients can reach and damage sensitive electronics. It acts as a first line of defense that clamps excessive voltages before they can propagate through the vehicle's electrical system, preventing damage proactively rather than reactively.
Solution Approach 2:
The protection device serves as an intermediary between the power source and the vehicle's electrical system. It mediates by filtering and conditioning the incoming power, blocking harmful transients while allowing normal power flow, thus protecting downstream components without requiring changes to the power source or the vehicle's internal systems.
4Ease of operation
If AC powerline polarity reversal is not detected, then the system operates normally, but electrocution risk occurs when power is grounded into water
Solution Approach 1:
The patent incorporates ground fault detection and alarm circuits that continuously monitor the electrical system for polarity reversals and grounding issues. When an abnormal condition is detected, the system provides immediate feedback through visual and audible alarms, alerting the operator to correct the issue before electrocution can occur.
Solution Approach 2:
The detection circuits are designed to identify polarity reversals and ground faults before they can cause electrocution. By detecting these conditions early and alerting the operator, the system enables preliminary corrective action to be taken, preventing the harmful effect from manifesting.
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
Effectively suppresses high-voltage transients, protects connected devices from damage, and alerts users to potential wiring issues, ensuring safety and equipment integrity across various power scenarios, including those involving lightning strikes or local power source faults.
Implementation Method 1
utilizing a Silicon Avalanche Suppressor (SAS) to limit transient voltages
Data Source
AI summary
A transient voltage suppressor (“TVS”) device includes a housing. Three prongs extend from the first end and are adapted for electrically connecting to an alternating current power source receptacle. Three recessed contacts extend into the second end of the housing for receiving three prongs from a power connector. The three prongs and three recessed contacts are adapted to pass electrical power along a ground wire, a neutral wire, and line wire, respectively. A protection circuit includes at least one silicon avalanche suppression diode (“SAS diode”) to limit high transient voltage imposed thereon to a lower level. A notification circuit is configured to communicate a status of the TVS device and configured to notify a user of one or more of: a correct connection of the vehicle wiring with respect to the power source, an incorrect connection of the vehicle wiring with respect to the power source, or a fault.