Voltage Harvesting Circuit for Load-Independent Grid Control Power
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing power distribution systems face significant costs and maintenance challenges due to the need for separate step-down transformers and power storage components to provide operating power to reclosers, controllers, and communication devices, especially during moments of power disruptions caused by environmental factors.
Innovation Solution
The development of voltage harvesting devices that transform high voltage AC from power distribution lines into low voltage AC or DC power using a transformation circuit with a resistor and transformer, eliminating the need for dedicated power sources and allowing operation regardless of line load, thereby reducing costs and maintenance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If separate step-down transformers and power storage components are used to provide operating power to reclosers and control devices, then reliable power supply is achieved, but device complexity and cost increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the voltage transformation function and power storage function into a single integrated voltage harvesting device. The transformation circuit with resistor and transformer is integrated with the housing, eliminating the need for separate step-down transformers and power storage components while providing both voltage transformation and power supply capabilities.
Solution Approach 2:
The voltage harvesting device performs multiple functions: it transforms high voltage AC to low voltage AC/DC, provides power storage capability, and supplies operating power to reclosers and control devices. This multi-functional device replaces multiple separate components (transformer, battery/capacitor, power supply circuitry).
2Power
If separate step-down transformers and power storage components are installed, then adequate power is provided to control devices, but maintenance requirements and costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
By integrating the transformation circuit and power storage into a single housing, the patent reduces the number of separate components that require installation and maintenance. The unified device structure simplifies maintenance procedures and reduces overall system cost while providing adequate operating power to control devices.
3Power
If live tank devices are used to harvest power from line current, then operating power is obtained, but line loading is required which is not always realistic
Solution Approach 1:
The voltage harvesting device harvests power directly from the high voltage AC line without requiring external line loading or additional power sources. The transformation circuit efficiently extracts power from the existing line voltage, making the system adaptable to various line loading conditions and eliminating dependency on constant line load.
4Power
If transformation circuit with resistor and transformer is used to transform high voltage AC to low voltage AC, then operating power is produced, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the essential transformation function using a simplified circuit consisting of a resistor and transformer arranged as a voltage divider. This minimal circuit configuration provides the necessary voltage transformation from high voltage AC to low voltage AC/DC while maintaining manageable device complexity through component simplicity.
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
Enables efficient and cost-effective power supply for communication and control devices in power distribution systems, reducing the reliance on separate power sources and line loads, thus enhancing system resilience and reducing operational expenses.
Implementation Method 1
The transformation circuit includes a first impedance component and a second impedance component arranged as a voltage divider such that the transformation circuit has an output AC voltage that is a factor of about 0.1 percent to about 5 percent of a source line voltage. In this exemplary embodiment, the first impedance component is a transformer...
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure provides exemplary embodiments of voltage harvesting devices used in power distribution systems, and provides power distribution system architectures utilizing the voltage harvesting devices. Generally, the voltage harvesting devices transform distribution line AC voltages to produce a low wattage output for distribution system communication and control type devices. The voltage harvesting device can operate whether irrespective of the presence of load current.