Anti-flooding and in-water driving system of electric automobile and driving method of anti-flooding and in-water driving system

Abstract

The invention relates to a system for preventing an electric automobile from being flooded and running in water and a running method thereof, and the system comprises a waterproof unit which is used for carrying out all-dimensional plastic spraying coating treatment on a chassis, a battery pack, an electric control unit and a motor of the electric automobile; the sealing unit is used for sealing the wire connection point, the pedal movable rod, the automobile door and the trunk door; the buoyancy unit adopts a chassis made of aluminum steel alloy or carbon fiber materials, so that the vehicle has buoyancy in water; the propelling unit is used for providing propelling force in water; the sensor unit comprises a water depth sensor, a water flow velocity sensor and a water temperature sensor and is used for monitoring water environment parameters in real time. The method has the advantages that short circuit and damage of an electrical system caused by water immersion of the vehicle are avoided, and the survivability and safety of the vehicle in a wading or even submerging state are remarkably improved. And autonomous advancing and direction control of the vehicle in water are realized.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to a waterproof and water-driving system and method for electric vehicles, belonging to the automotive field. Background Technology

[0002] With the intensification of global climate change and the increasing frequency of extreme weather events, floods have become one of the major natural threats facing many regions. Against this backdrop, electric vehicles are extremely sensitive to water immersion due to their power systems and high-voltage electrical structures. Once submerged, critical components such as the battery pack, electronic control unit, and motor are highly susceptible to short circuits, corrosion, or permanent damage, leading to the total loss of the vehicle. This not only causes significant economic losses but also poses a serious threat to the safety of passengers.

[0003] Currently, most electric vehicles on the market lack a systematic flood-proof design. Although some models have some splash resistance or short-term wading capability, their protection is mostly concentrated on partial sealing of the chassis or improved waterproof rating of the outer shell. They do not achieve true water-driving functionality from multiple dimensions such as structural design, sealing system, buoyancy control, and emergency propulsion. Once a vehicle is completely submerged, current technology cannot guarantee the safe operation of its electrical system, let alone enable active extrication in water. Users can only passively wait for rescue, resulting in extremely low personal and property safety.

[0004] Therefore, there is an urgent need for a systematic solution integrating waterproofing, dynamic sealing, buoyancy structures, and underwater propulsion, enabling electric vehicles to not only maintain body sealing and electrical safety in the event of sudden flooding, but also to achieve short-term underwater driving using their own power, thereby significantly improving the vehicle's adaptability and occupant safety in extreme environments. This invention is proposed against this technological backdrop. Summary of the Invention

[0005] To overcome the shortcomings of existing technologies, this invention provides a system for electric vehicles to be waterproof and capable of driving in water. The technical solution of this invention is as follows:

[0006] A system for waterproofing and driving an electric vehicle in water includes:

[0007] Waterproof unit, used for all-round powder coating treatment of electric vehicle chassis, battery pack, electronic control unit and motor;

[0008] The sealing unit is used to seal the wire connections, foot pedal levers, doors, and trunk door.

[0009] The buoyancy unit, with a chassis made of aluminum-steel alloy or carbon fiber, enables the vehicle to have buoyancy in water;

[0010] The propulsion unit includes a front skid plate frame disposed at the front of the vehicle, a front grille mounted on the front skid plate frame, and an auger fan located behind the front grille for providing propulsion in water;

[0011] The sensor unit, including a water depth sensor, a water flow velocity sensor, and a water temperature sensor, is used to monitor water environment parameters in real time.

[0012] The control unit is used to control the speed and direction of the auger fan based on sensor data.

[0013] The chassis of the buoyancy unit has a hollow structure, and an adjustable buoyancy chamber is set inside. The buoyancy can be adjusted by controlling the water inlet and air outlet valves.

[0014] The chassis of the buoyancy unit is designed as a closed cavity structure, and its buoyancy satisfies the following formula:

[0015] F_b=ρgV, where F_b is the buoyancy force, ρ is the density of water, g is the gravitational acceleration, and V is the submerged volume of the vehicle.

[0016] The control unit includes:

[0017] The mode determination module is used to determine whether to enter the flooding mode based on water depth data;

[0018] The speed control module is used to calculate the target speed of the auger fan according to the following formula; the target speed n target =k1·h+k2·(v target -v actual )+k3·u+n0;

[0019] Where k1, k2, and k3 are weighting coefficients, n0 is the compensation constant, h is the water depth, and v target For the target velocity, v actual The actual velocity is given by u, where u is the water flow velocity.

[0020] The energy efficiency optimization module is used to optimize propulsion efficiency based on battery power.

[0021] The energy efficiency optimization module uses the following algorithm to optimize power allocation: Among them, P fan Let denot be the fan power, α and β be the adjustment coefficients, and η be the efficiency function based on power consumption.

[0022] It also includes a safety protection unit, which automatically reduces power when the battery level is below a set threshold; activates an emergency steering mode when the water flow speed exceeds the safe range; and activates overheat protection and alarms when the water temperature exceeds the critical value.

[0023] Based on the same inventive concept, embodiments of the present invention also provide a method for electric vehicles to travel in water based on the system, comprising the following steps:

[0024] S1. Real-time monitoring of water depth, water flow speed, and water temperature via sensors;

[0025] S2. If the water depth continues to exceed the safety threshold, the flooding mode will be activated.

[0026] S3. Dynamically adjust the speed and direction of the auger fan based on real-time data;

[0027] S4. Optimize propulsion efficiency based on battery level;

[0028] S5. When the water depth is below the safety threshold, exit flooding mode;

[0029] S6. Shut down the propulsion unit and resume normal operation.

[0030] The dynamic adjustment in step S3 employs a PID control algorithm, specifically:

[0031]

[0032] Where, e(t) = v target -v actual K p K i K d These are PID parameters.

[0033] It also includes safety protection steps: when the vehicle tilt angle is detected to exceed the safety value, the fan thrust distribution is automatically adjusted to restore balance; when the battery temperature is detected to be abnormal, the forced cooling mode is activated.

[0034] The advantages of this invention are:

[0035] 1. Through the integrated design of full chassis powder coating sealing, key point dynamic sealing and buoyancy cavity structure, short circuits and damage to the electrical system caused by vehicle immersion in water are eliminated, significantly improving the vehicle's survivability and safety in wading or even submerged conditions.

[0036] 2. By utilizing the auger fan as a dual-function unit for both heat dissipation and propulsion, and combining multi-sensor data with intelligent control algorithms, autonomous movement and directional control of the vehicle in water can be achieved.

[0037] 3. It can automatically enter or exit flood mode based on information such as water depth, water flow, and battery status, and optimize propulsion efficiency and power distribution in real time through algorithms to maximize power range while ensuring extrication performance and avoiding secondary risks. Attached Figure Description

[0038] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the main structure of the present invention.

[0039] Figure 2 yes Figure 1 A schematic diagram of the propulsion unit. Detailed Implementation

[0040] The present invention will be further described below with reference to specific embodiments, and the advantages and features of the present invention will become clearer as a result. However, these embodiments are merely exemplary and do not constitute any limitation on the scope of the present invention. Those skilled in the art should understand that modifications or substitutions can be made to the details and form of the technical solutions of the present invention without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention, but all such modifications and substitutions fall within the protection scope of the present invention.

[0041] See Figure 1 and Figure 2 This invention relates to a system for waterproofing and driving an electric vehicle in water, comprising:

[0042] Waterproof unit 1 is used to apply a full-body powder coating to the chassis, battery pack, electronic control unit, and motor of the electric vehicle.

[0043] Sealing unit 2 is used to seal the wire connection points, foot pedal moving rod, door and trunk door;

[0044] Buoyancy Unit 3 uses a chassis made of aluminum-steel alloy or carbon fiber material to give the vehicle buoyancy in water;

[0045] The propulsion unit 4 includes a front skid plate frame 7 disposed at the front of the vehicle, a front grille 8 mounted on the front skid plate frame, and an auger fan 9 located behind the front grille for providing propulsion in water; the auger fan is driven by a fan motor 10.

[0046] Sensor unit 5 includes a water depth sensor, a water flow velocity sensor, and a water temperature sensor, used for real-time monitoring of water environment parameters.

[0047] Control unit 6 is used to control the speed and direction of the auger fan based on sensor data.

[0048] This electric vehicle's waterproof and water-driving system has the following advantages:

[0049] Based on the above structure, the chassis, battery pack, electronic control unit and motor are powder coated with a waterproof unit, and the wire connections, moving parts and doors are sealed with a sealing unit, which significantly improves the electrical safety and structural integrity of the vehicle in water wading or submersion conditions, and avoids short circuits and corrosion.

[0050] The hollow chassis structure, made of aluminum-steel alloy or carbon fiber, features an adjustable buoyancy chamber that can automatically fine-tune buoyancy according to water depth, ensuring the vehicle remains stable and floating in the water.

[0051] The auger fan can be used as a daily cooling device and also provides propulsion in flooded mode, achieving multiple uses in one unit, saving space and cost, and improving system integration.

[0052] By monitoring water environment parameters in real time through multiple sensors, and combining PID control algorithms and energy efficiency optimization modules, the fan speed and direction are dynamically adjusted to achieve autonomous movement and directional control in water, thereby improving the efficiency and safety of getting out of trouble.

[0053] It features functions such as low battery power reduction, emergency steering, and overheat protection, and automatically adjusts thrust or starts cooling when the vehicle tilts or the battery temperature is abnormal, ensuring the safety of personnel and vehicles.

[0054] The chassis of the buoyancy unit has a hollow structure with an adjustable buoyancy chamber inside. Buoyancy is adjusted by controlling the water inlet and vent valves. By controlling the water inlet and vent valves, the amount of water stored in the buoyancy chamber can be adjusted, thereby dynamically fine-tuning the overall buoyancy and draft of the vehicle, so that the vehicle can maintain optimal floating posture and stability under different load or water flow conditions.

[0055] The buoyancy adjustment function is highly integrated within the chassis cavity structure, without occupying additional body space and maintaining the vehicle's integrity. It employs a valve-controlled mechanical adjustment method, which is simple in principle, responds quickly, and can still provide basic buoyancy assurance even in the event of electrical system failure.

[0056] The chassis of the buoyancy unit is designed as a closed cavity structure, and its buoyancy satisfies the following formula:

[0057] F_b = ρgV, where F_b is the buoyancy force, ρ is the density of water, g is the acceleration due to gravity, and V is the submerged volume of the vehicle. The sealed cavity structure can effectively displace a volume of water of V, generating a constant buoyancy force according to Archimedes' principle (F_b = ρgV), providing a fundamental guarantee for the vehicle's buoyancy in the water and ensuring the basic safety of the vehicle and its occupants. It eliminates the need for complex mechanical or electronic components to maintain basic buoyancy, avoiding the risk of complete loss of buoyancy due to adjustment system failure, and exhibits strong fault resistance and environmental adaptability.

[0058] Assume an electric vehicle has a total mass of 1500 kg (including passengers). According to the buoyancy formula F_b = ρgV, for it to float completely (i.e., F_b ≥ vehicle weight), the water density ρ = 1000 kg / m³ is required. 3 g = 9.8 m / s 2 Under these conditions, its immersion volume V needs to reach at least approximately 1.53 m³.3 (1500kg / 1000kg / m 3 Engineers can use this formula during the design phase to calculate that the chassis's sealed cavity needs to provide at least 1.53m³ of space. 3 The drainage volume is [missing information]. It can provide a minimum of 1.53 m³ of [missing information] without any energy input. 3 The buoyancy generated by the displacement volume (approximately 15,000 N).

[0059] When the vehicle is unloaded, it may only need 1.2m. 3 When the vehicle is submerged to a certain volume, it can float. At this point, the vehicle's draft is shallow, and its ground clearance is high, which is beneficial for driving in shallow water. When the vehicle is fully loaded with five occupants (assuming an additional 300kg load), greater buoyancy is required. In this case, the control system opens the water inlet valve, allowing water to enter some cavities. This increases the vehicle's weight, deepens the draft, and the submerged volume V increases from 1.2m³. 3 Increased to 1.53m 3 According to the formula F_b=ρgV, the buoyancy increases accordingly, thus balancing the increased weight and allowing the vehicle to float stably. Conversely, if weight reduction is needed (e.g., when passengers disembark) or if it is desired that the vehicle rise higher in the water to reduce drag, the exhaust valve can be opened to allow compressed air to expel water, reducing V to precisely adjust buoyancy and attitude. This dynamic adjustment capability enhances the vehicle's adaptability to different loads and water conditions.

[0060] The control unit includes:

[0061] The mode determination module is used to determine whether to enter the flooding mode based on water depth data;

[0062] The speed control module is used to calculate the target speed of the auger fan according to the following formula; the target speed n target =k1·h+k2·(v target -v actual )+k3·u+n0;

[0063] Where k1, k2, and k3 are weighting coefficients, n0 is the compensation constant, h is the water depth, and v target For the target velocity, v actual The actual velocity is given by u, where u is the water flow velocity.

[0064] The energy efficiency optimization module is used to optimize propulsion efficiency based on battery power.

[0065] The mode determination module automatically determines whether the water is flooded based on real-time water depth data, eliminating the need for manual operation by the driver and avoiding human error or operation delay in emergency situations.

[0066] When a vehicle enters a flooded area under an overpass, and the water depth sensor detects that the water depth exceeds 0.8 meters (the safety threshold) for 3 consecutive seconds, the control unit immediately determines that the vehicle is floating and automatically enters flood mode. At this time, the system automatically takes over power distribution, starts the auger fan, and notifies the energy efficiency optimization module to start working.

[0067] The speed control module's formula is a multivariable feedback control system. It comprehensively considers water depth, speed difference, and water flow interference, enabling precise propulsion control and resisting external environmental influences to maintain stable driving.

[0068] The vehicle target speed vtarget is set to 5 km / h (slowly getting out of trouble).

[0069] Scenario A (Still Water Start): Initially, the actual speed v actual =0, the speed difference is large, the output value of the k2·(vtarget-vactual)` term in the formula is large, and the command fan starts at high speed to quickly reach the target speed.

[0070] Scenario B (Against Current): In this scenario, the water flow velocity u is negative (against the current). Assuming an oncoming water flow of 3 km / h (u = -3), this would severely impede the vehicle's progress. The k3·u term in the formula (where k3 is a negative weighting coefficient) will output a positive value, which, combined with the k2·(vtarget-vactual) term, automatically increases the fan speed to further counteract the water flow impact and maintain the preset forward speed of 5 km / h.

[0071] The energy efficiency optimization module adjusts between "getting out of trouble speed" and "battery life" to prevent the battery from being depleted too quickly, thus maximizing the safety window.

[0072] The vehicle is traveling through water with ample initial battery power, and the system operates at high power to quickly reach a safe area. When the battery level drops to the low-battery warning threshold of 20%:

[0073] Basic strategy: The energy efficiency optimization module will begin to limit the maximum available power of the fan (i.e., operate at reduced power).

[0074] Advanced strategy: This will work in conjunction with the speed control module, for example, subtly reducing the speed from 5 km / h to 3 km / h. This is because, according to fluid dynamics, propulsion resistance is roughly proportional to the square of speed; slightly reducing the speed can significantly reduce power consumption, prioritizing a longer period of continuous floating and propulsion for the vehicle (e.g., extending from 10 minutes to 25 minutes).

[0075] The energy efficiency optimization module uses the following algorithm to optimize power allocation:

[0076]

[0077] Among them, P fan Let denot be the fan power, α and β be the adjustment coefficients, and η be the efficiency function based on power consumption.

[0078] It also includes a safety protection unit, which automatically reduces power when the battery level is below a set threshold; activates an emergency steering mode when the water flow speed exceeds the safe range; and activates overheat protection and alarms when the water temperature exceeds the critical value.

[0079] The present invention also relates to a method for electric vehicles to travel in water based on the said system, comprising the following steps:

[0080] S1. Real-time monitoring of water depth, water flow speed, and water temperature via sensors;

[0081] S2. If the water depth continues to exceed the safety threshold, the flooding mode will be activated.

[0082] S3. Dynamically adjust the speed and direction of the auger fan based on real-time data;

[0083] S4. Optimize propulsion efficiency based on battery level;

[0084] S5. When the water depth is below the safety threshold, exit flooding mode;

[0085] S6. Shut down the propulsion unit and resume normal operation.

[0086] The dynamic adjustment in step S3 employs a PID control algorithm, specifically:

[0087]

[0088] Where, e(t) = v target -v actual K p K i K d These are PID parameters.

[0089] It also includes safety protection steps: when the vehicle tilt angle is detected to exceed the safety value, the fan thrust distribution is automatically adjusted to restore balance; when the battery temperature is detected to be abnormal, the forced cooling mode is activated.

[0090] 1. From environmental monitoring, mode switching, power adjustment to exit and recovery, the entire process requires no human intervention, significantly reducing the operational threshold and the risk caused by human error.

[0091] 2. The propulsion system is dynamically adjusted based on real-time sensor data, enabling the vehicle to actively adapt to complex environmental changes such as water depth and current speed, maintain a stable driving posture and heading, and improve maneuverability and safety in water.

[0092] 3. By using battery status as a core control parameter, power allocation is dynamically optimized to maximize driving range while ensuring off-road capability, thus avoiding secondary dangers caused by battery depletion.

[0093] The working principle of this invention is:

[0094] Step 1: Routine driving and continuous monitoring

[0095] During normal vehicle operation, the sensor unit continuously monitors the water depth (h), water flow velocity (u), and water temperature parameters around the vehicle and transmits the data to the control unit in real time.

[0096] System Status: At this point, the waterproofing unit (powder-coated coating) and sealing unit have provided the vehicle with basic waterproofing capabilities, allowing for short-term wading. The auger fan in the propulsion unit may operate as a cooling fan in conventional mode.

[0097] Step 2: Hazard Identification and Mode Switching

[0098] When a vehicle enters a deep water area, and the water depth sensor detects that the water depth (h) continuously exceeds the safety threshold (e.g., 0.8 meters), the mode judgment module of the control unit immediately determines that the vehicle is at risk of being flooded, automatically triggers and enters "flood mode"; the entire system switches from normal driving state to emergency water driving state.

[0099] Step 3: Ensure buoyancy and vehicle stability

[0100] Once the vehicle enters flood mode, the buoyancy unit begins its crucial operation. Its pre-designed sealed cavity chassis provides basic buoyancy based on Archimedes' principle (F_b = ρgV), allowing the vehicle to float naturally. The internal adjustable buoyancy chamber fine-tunes the water volume via inlet and outlet valves to adapt to the vehicle's actual weight and load, ensuring stable vehicle posture and preventing rollover.

[0101] Step 4: Intelligent Propulsion and Heading Control

[0102] 1. The driver sets a desired speed (v) for getting out of trouble using the accelerator pedal. target ).

[0103] 2. The speed control module of the control unit receives real-time data from the sensor (water depth h, actual speed v). actual The water flow (u) is calculated and substituted into the formula.

[0104] 3. If the vehicle is moving against the current (u is negative), a higher target speed will be automatically calculated, and the auger fan will be instructed to accelerate to counteract the water flow impact and maintain the set speed. The control unit precisely controls the fan speed and direction by adjusting the output of the fan motor, thereby achieving forward, backward, or turning.

[0105] Step 5: Energy Efficiency Management and Safety Monitoring

[0106] If the battery is sufficiently charged, full power propulsion is permitted; if the battery level drops to a warning level, priority will be given to ensuring flight time, for example by limiting the maximum power of the fan or suggesting a reduction in speed, in order to optimize power distribution and strive for the longest possible window of time to escape trouble.

[0107] If an abnormal battery temperature is detected, forced cooling will be activated; if the water flow speed is too fast or the vehicle body tilt angle is too large, emergency steering mode will be activated or the thrust of the left and right fans will be adjusted to restore balance.

[0108] Step 6: Escape and Recovery and Mode Exit

[0109] With the system's assistance, the vehicle moves to a safe area. When the water depth sensor continuously detects that the water depth is below the safe threshold, the control unit determines that the danger has passed and automatically exits the flooding mode.

[0110] The control unit shuts down the auger fan's propulsion function, the vehicle's power system fully returns to normal road driving mode, the entire flood prevention system completes its task, and re-enters standby monitoring mode.

[0111] This invention senses environmental risks, decides to enter emergency mode, controls buoyancy and propulsion systems to achieve stable navigation in water, optimizes energy distribution and ensures safety, and finally automatically returns to normal after the risk is eliminated, greatly improving the survivability and active safety of electric vehicles in sudden flooding scenarios.

[0112] The above description is only a preferred embodiment of the present invention, but the scope of protection of the present invention is not limited thereto. Any equivalent substitutions or modifications made by those skilled in the art within the scope of the technology disclosed in the present invention, based on the technical solution and inventive concept of the present invention, should be covered within the scope of protection of the present invention.

Claims

1. A system for waterproofing and driving an electric vehicle in water, characterized in that, include: Waterproof unit, used for all-round powder coating treatment of electric vehicle chassis, battery pack, electronic control unit and motor; The sealing unit is used to seal the wire connections, foot pedal levers, doors, and trunk door. The buoyancy unit, with a chassis made of aluminum-steel alloy or carbon fiber, enables the vehicle to have buoyancy in water; The propulsion unit includes a front skid plate frame disposed at the front of the vehicle, a front grille mounted on the front skid plate frame, and an auger fan located behind the front grille for providing propulsion in water; The sensor unit includes a water depth sensor, a water flow velocity sensor, and a water temperature sensor, used for real-time monitoring of aquatic environmental parameters; The control unit is used to control the speed and direction of the auger fan based on sensor data.

2. The electric vehicle waterproof and water-driving system according to claim 1, characterized in that, The chassis of the buoyancy unit has a hollow structure, and an adjustable buoyancy chamber is set inside. The buoyancy can be adjusted by controlling the water inlet and air outlet valves.

3. The electric vehicle waterproofing and water-driving system according to claim 1, characterized in that, The chassis of the buoyancy unit is designed as a closed cavity structure, and its buoyancy satisfies the following formula: F_b=ρgV, where F_b is the buoyancy force, ρ is the density of water, g is the gravitational acceleration, and V is the submerged volume of the vehicle.

4. The electric vehicle waterproofing and water-driving system according to claim 1, characterized in that, The control unit includes: The mode determination module is used to determine whether to enter the flooding mode based on water depth data; The speed control module is used to calculate the target speed of the auger fan according to the following formula; the target speed n target =k1·h+k2·(v target -v actual )+k3·u+n0; Where k1, k2, and k3 are weighting coefficients, n0 is the compensation constant, h is the water depth, and v target For the target velocity, v actual The actual velocity is given by u, where u is the water flow velocity. The energy efficiency optimization module is used to optimize propulsion efficiency based on battery power.

5. The electric vehicle waterproofing and water-driving system according to claim 4, characterized in that, The energy efficiency optimization module uses the following algorithm to optimize power allocation: Among them, P fan Let denot be the fan power, α and β be the adjustment coefficients, and η be the efficiency function based on power consumption.

6. The electric vehicle waterproof and water-driving system according to claim 5, characterized in that, It also includes a safety protection unit, which automatically reduces power when the battery level is below a set threshold; activates an emergency steering mode when the water flow speed exceeds the safe range; and activates overheat protection and alarms when the water temperature exceeds the critical value.

7. A method for electric vehicle to travel in water based on the system according to any one of claims 1-6, characterized in that, Includes the following steps: S1. Real-time monitoring of water depth, water flow speed, and water temperature via sensors; S2. If the water depth continues to exceed the safety threshold, the flooding mode will be activated. S3. Dynamically adjust the speed and direction of the auger fan based on real-time data; S4. Optimize propulsion efficiency based on battery level; S5. When the water depth is below the safety threshold, exit flooding mode; S6. Shut down the propulsion unit and resume normal operation.

8. The method for electric vehicles to travel in water according to claim 7, characterized in that, The dynamic adjustment in step S3 employs a PID control algorithm, specifically: Where, e(t) = v target -v actual K p K i K d These are PID parameters.

9. The method for electric vehicles to travel in water according to claim 7, characterized in that, It also includes safety protection steps: when the vehicle tilt angle is detected to exceed the safety value, the fan thrust distribution is automatically adjusted to restore balance; when the battery temperature is detected to be abnormal, the forced cooling mode is activated.

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