Electricity: conductors and insulators – Conduits – cables or conductors – Insulated
Reexamination Certificate
1999-06-25
2001-11-20
Reichard, Dean A. (Department: 2831)
Electricity: conductors and insulators
Conduits, cables or conductors
Insulated
C174S1170FF
Reexamination Certificate
active
06320133
ABSTRACT:
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
1. Field of the Invention
The present invention relates to a power distribution system and more particularly relates to a power distribution system adapted to distribute electric power from a power source to at least one load.
2. Description of Related Art
Various power distribution systems have been used to distribute power from a power source to a load. The power may be distributed at a typical “mains” voltage of 240 volts (or, in some countries 110 volts) and at a typical “mains” frequency of 50 cycles per second (in some countries, 60 cycles per second). A disadvantage of this type of distribution system is that since a relatively low voltage is used, for a moderate power supply, a substantial current flows, meaning that the conductors must be capable of carrying a substantial current. Consequently, the cables typically include conductors formed of copper, the conductors having a relatively large cross-section.
If a distribution system of this type is utilized with a discharge lamp, for example, a step-up transformer has to be utilized. Since the frequency of the alternating current is relatively low, the transformer must be relatively bulky.
There is a desire to be able to utilize, in connection with dichroic lamps and discharge lamps, an electronic ballast. An electronic ballast is small and light and also, in connection with a discharge lamp, provides high efficiency and a light that is substantially flicker-free. However, to be able to utilize an electronic ballast, there is a need for a high frequency alternating current. In many states, local legislation insists that where an electronic ballast is utilized, a power factor connector must be provided to ensure that the power factor “seen” at the main supply is appropriate. A problem exists in connection with a high frequency power distribution system in that substantial H field “interference” can be generated.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
The present invention seeks to provide an improved power distribution system.
According to this invention there is provided an electric power distribution arrangement comprising a source of alternating current having a frequency of 10 kHz or greater, and a distribution line connected to said source. The distribution line comprises three layers constituted by: two conductors, each of substantially flat configuration, the conductors being located in spaced parallelism and being located a short distance apart; and, an insulator that separates the two conductors At least one of the conductors, included in the three layers of the transmission line, being associated with a respective further element formed of a material of high relative permeability. That further element comprising a foil secured to the face of the conductor, remote from the insulator. The arrangement further comprises at least one load connected to said conductors to receive electric power therefrom.
In one embodiment the load is connected directly to the two conductors. In another embodiment the load is connected to the conductors by means of a transformer, the transformer having a primary winding connected to the two conductors, and having a secondary winding connected to the load. It is conceivable that the load comprises a low voltage incandescent lamp, but preferably the load comprises a discharge lamp, an impedance being provided which is connected in circuit with the secondary winding and the discharge lamp.
In another embodiment each load comprises a discharge lamp connected to one conductor of the distribution line by means of an inductance, and connected directly to the other conductor of the distribution line.
Preferably the source of alternating current comprises a power factor corrector, which receives supply from a mains electricity supply, and an inverter which receives power from the power factor corrector.
Conveniently the power factor corrector comprises a rectifier producing a DC output, the DC output of the power factor corrector being provided as an input to the inverter.
Advantageously a transformer is provided located between the source of the high frequency current and the distribution line.
Advantageously a second element of high permeability is provided associated with the other conductor.
Conveniently each element of high relative permeability extends laterally beyond the associated flat conductor.
Preferably each element of high permeability is formed of an amorphous or nano-crystalline metal.
Conveniently each conductor is of flat cross-section, with two opposed parallel flat faces. The insulator separating the conductors comprising a sheet of insulating material.
Advantageously the foil is separated from the face of the conductor to which it is secured by means of an insulating layer.
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Patent Abstracts of Japan, vol. 007, No. 258, Nov. 17, 1983.
Armstrong Westerman Hattori McLeland & Naughton LLP
Mayo III William H.
Reichard Dean A.
Tunewell Technology LTD
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