Variable-Impedance Transformer With Single Tap Selector Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing variable-impedance electric transformers are complex in design and configuration, requiring multiple impedance tap changers which lead to oversizing, increased weight, and higher manufacturing costs due to the intricate interconnection of conductive and impedance-varying windings.
Innovation Solution
A variable-impedance electric transformer design utilizing a single stepped-impedance-tap selector per transformation phase, with conductive windings and two impedance-varying auxiliary windings of opposite magnetic polarity connected in series, allowing for impedance variation through interposed impedance circuit modules and controlled by an impedance controller.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple impedance tap changers are used to vary impedance, then impedance regulation capability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple impedance tap changers into a single stepped-impedance-tap selector that controls both primary and secondary auxiliary windings simultaneously. This merging approach maintains the impedance regulation capability while reducing the number of separate control devices, thereby simplifying the overall device complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The single stepped-impedance-tap selector performs multiple functions by controlling both the primary auxiliary winding (connected in series) and the secondary auxiliary winding (connected in parallel). This multi-functional device replaces what would traditionally require multiple separate tap changers, achieving impedance regulation across different operating conditions without increasing device count.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple impedance tap changers and intricate interconnections are used, then impedance variation flexibility is improved, but manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple tap changer functions into a single stepped-impedance-tap selector, reducing the number of components that need to be manufactured and assembled. This consolidation maintains impedance variation flexibility while lowering manufacturing costs by reducing part count and assembly complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The auxiliary windings are divided into discrete impedance circuit modules that can be selectively connected. This segmentation allows for standardized modular construction, making manufacturing more efficient and cost-effective while maintaining the ability to provide flexible impedance variation through different module combinations.
3Measurement precision
If multiple impedance tap changers are used, then impedance control precision is improved, but device complexity and weight increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple impedance control functions into a single stepped-impedance-tap selector that simultaneously manages both series and parallel auxiliary windings. This unified control mechanism maintains precise impedance control capability while reducing device complexity compared to using multiple separate tap changers.
Solution Approach 2:
The stepped-impedance-tap selector provides dynamic impedance control by allowing selective connection of different impedance circuit modules based on operating conditions. This dynamic switching capability maintains control precision while using a single integrated device rather than multiple static tap changers.
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
This design significantly reduces the complexity of internal wiring, resulting in a more compact, lighter, and cost-effective transformer with improved impedance regulation capabilities while maintaining flexibility in voltage and impedance variation.
Implementation Method 1
a first impedance-varying auxiliary winding divided into impedance circuit modules, the first impedance-varying auxiliary winding having a magnetic polarity; a second impedance-varying auxiliary winding divided into impedance circuit modules, the second impedance-varying auxiliary winding having an inverse magnetic polarity
Implementation Method 2
the first impedance-varying auxiliary winding and second impedance-varying auxiliary winding are connected in series, defining impedance variation modules by interposing the impedance circuit modules one by one
Data Source
AI summary
Disclosed is an electric transformer that has variable impedance, optionally under load, which includes, in at least one of its transformation phases, a first impedance-varying auxiliary winding having inverse magnetic polarity arid a second impedance-varying auxiliary winding having inverse magnetic polarity, both auxiliary windings being divided into impedance circuit modules and being series connected by interposing the impedance circuit modules one by one, defining impedance variation modules that comprise impedance taps designed to be electrically coupled to a stepped-impedance-tap selector controlled by an impedance controller that allows the impedance of the transformation phase or of the electric transformer to be varied,