Ordinary alternating current can be converted to direct current by using a transformer - but such a device requires consistency in the number of cycles per second.
What nonsense is this?
Ordinary alternating current is converted to direct current by a rectifier, not a transformer which both inputs and outputs AC.
What they probably mean is that normally you would do the impedance matching between high-voltage low current AC source to a low-voltage high current load with a transformer, but in this application the frequency of the current is so low and so inconsistent that a transformer wouldn't work.
From the description, what they do is rectify the AC directly into DC and then use a capacitor charge pump for an impedance matching device. Charge pumps are usually constructed to work the other way around - to raise voltages from low sources - but nothing prevents you from reversing the operation.
Eikka
Jan 11, 2016What nonsense is this?
Ordinary alternating current is converted to direct current by a rectifier, not a transformer which both inputs and outputs AC.
What they probably mean is that normally you would do the impedance matching between high-voltage low current AC source to a low-voltage high current load with a transformer, but in this application the frequency of the current is so low and so inconsistent that a transformer wouldn't work.
From the description, what they do is rectify the AC directly into DC and then use a capacitor charge pump for an impedance matching device. Charge pumps are usually constructed to work the other way around - to raise voltages from low sources - but nothing prevents you from reversing the operation.