High-voltage bus discharge with logarithmic self-protection

Abstract

The invention relates to a high-voltage bus discharge with logarithmic self-protection. Systems and methods for discharging a high-voltage bus coupled to a discharge circuit are provided. A method comprises obtaining a first voltage level of the high-voltage bus. The method further comprises determining a first discharge time based on the first voltage level and activating the discharge circuit. The method further comprises obtaining a second voltage level of the high-voltage bus after the first discharge time, comparing the first voltage level and the second voltage level, and deactivating the discharge circuit if a difference between the first voltage level and the second voltage level is less than a threshold value.

Description

technical field [0001] Embodiments of the subject matter described herein relate generally to electric and hybrid vehicle drive systems, and more particularly, to discharge circuits for high voltage bus capacitors. Background technique [0002] In recent years, technological developments and changes in fashion styles have resulted in substantial changes in the design of motor vehicles. One such change concerns energy usage and the complexity of the various electrical systems within motor vehicles, particularly alternative fuel vehicles such as hybrid, electric, and fuel cell vehicles. [0003] In most hybrid vehicles, energy storage devices such as capacitors are typically used to increase efficiency by capturing energy within the powertrain or supplying additional power during operation when the primary energy source cannot supply the required power quickly enough. For example, energy may be harvested using a regenerative braking device by converting kinetic energy to elec...

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Problems solved by technology

These resistors typically occupy a large surface area and often require additional harnesses, connectors, and heat sinks, which prevent placing the discharge resistors on the board

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