Background
Site tools in the EU are required to operate from mains isolated, 110VAC centre tapped ground, transformer supplies. These (Yellow Box) site transformers are heavy, bulky and use technology that is little changed since Michael Faraday invented electrical transformer in 1831. With increasing commodity costs these are often stolen even if just for the meltdown scrap value of the copper. Present technology offers no active electrical safety features to protect the tool operator in the event of an electrical fault, nor does it protect the connected tool from abuse other than a simple thermal overload shutdown.
The Technology
In a patented topology using MOS gate switching devices and low loss high frequency ferrite cored transformer and inductor designs combined with programmable microcontroller, the problems of bulk and weight are addressed whilst adding the benefits of programmable performance, tool protection, tool recognition and safety monitoring.
The “Bi-Directional Cuk Converter” topology mimics conventional Iron / Copper transformers in electrical performance with reactive power tool loads whilst allowing ultra fast short circuit / earth fault protection and key operator comfort and safety features along with improved tool life and protection.
The programmable micro controller also allows for tool recognition and protection features which would present new opportunities and benefits for the construction industry and site tool hire industry including programmable hire period based on hours use or date and rendering both site power tools and transformers useless in the event of theft.
Technology Extrapolation
Development of tool communication can be readily achieved with existing technology such as Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, Power Line Control or proprietary contactless data communications protocols.
Such communication enabled tool and transformer sets would allow for the key benefits below and give construction companies and tool hire companies control over tool use, hire, security and maintenance etc.
Key Benefits
Include:
- Increased operator safety
- Improved tool life
- Reduced operator fatigue
- Increased site electrical safety
- Tool overload and abuse shutdown
- Controlled ramp up / anti kick start
- Programmable Tool recognition
- Tool thermal modeling and duty cycle control
- Programmable tool hire control
- Tool abuse reporting
- Scheduled maintenance
- Theft prevention.
Applications
- Site tool transformers and tools
- Hire tools and tool transformers
- Domestic power tool transformers
- Garden tool transformers.
Intellectual Property
The technology is protected by patents in a number of territories worldwide, including the US, Europe, Japan, South Korea and India.
Opportunity
Licenses are available for suitable partners to develop and market the technology worldwide.
Due to demonstrable increased operator and site electrical safety, it may be possible to lobby for adoption of international standards for site tools and transformers along with domestic power tool and or garden tools to require centre tapped earth 110VAC supplies increasing market opportunities for early entry industry partners.