Ferroresonant regulator for inductively coupled power distribution system

Abstract

A ferroresonant regulator for use in an inductively coupled high frequency power distribution system. A constant current resonant power source, comprising a sine wave oscillator (12), an amplitude controlled amplifier (16), a power amplifier (20), and an impedance matching transformer (24), provides current at a frequency of 38 kHz to a supply loop (68) that is installed in the floor of an aircraft passenger space. A current sensing transformer (32), and a voltage sensor (46) produce feedback signals that are used to control the amplitude of the current circulating in the supply loop, maintaining it substantially constant. A plurality of multiturn coils (70) are disposed proximate the supply loop. Connected to each of the multiturn coils is a saturable transformer (76), which includes a secondary winding attached to a load comprising an entertainment and passenger service system installed in each seat. A tertiary winding (106) on the saturable transformer is connected across a resonance capacitor (108). The capacitor is used to resonate the saturable transformer, causing its core to saturate. A constant voltage is thus maintained across the connected load with respect to variations in the load and variations in the inductive coupling between the multiturn coil and the supply loop.