Compact AC-to-DC power module without bulk capacitors
This technology is a power conversion system that takes standard AC electricity and converts it to clean DC power for electronic loads. The key innovation is an 'active ripple energy storage circuit' that handles the unwanted voltage fluctuations (ripple) inherent in single-phase AC-to-DC conversion. By actively absorbing and releasing this ripple energy through an auxiliary storage element, the system can dramatically reduce the size of the large bulk capacitor normally required to smooth out the DC output. The result is a more compact, higher-power-density power supply compared to conventional designs.
What you could build
A compact high-density power supply module for industrial equipment, electric vehicle charging stations, or military/aerospace electronics where size and weight are critical constraints; buyers would be power electronics OEMs, defense contractors, and EV infrastructure manufacturers.
Who in Virginia should care
Defense contractors and systems integrators in Northern Virginia (e.g., supporting Navy or DoD platforms) with requirements for compact power electronics in space- or weight-constrained applications.
Readiness: Prototype likely
Concept — described but not yet demonstrated. Lab validated — supported by experimental results in the patent. Prototype likely — the text describes a built, working embodiment.
Readiness is inferred from the patent text, not from a lab visit.
The record
- Inventors
- Ruxi Wang, Fred Wang, Rolando Burgos, Dushan Boroyevich, Kaushik Rajashekara, Stephen A. Long
- Granted
- October 29, 2013
- Status
- Granted patent
- Patent number
- 8570774
Ready to talk?
Virginia Tech Intellectual Properties handles licensing for this technology.
Prosim summaries are generated from public patent text and are not legal advice.