Motor vehicle with a movable, ferromagnetic component

Abstract

Drive (10) or power electronics for a battery-electric motor vehicle, comprising at least one inverter (12) and at least one electric drive motor (14), wherein the inverter (12) is connected to at least one electric drive motor (14) by several phase cables (20a) and / or busbars (20b), wherein a ferromagnetic component (16) is formed and movably arranged between the inverter (12) and the electric drive motor (14) in order to at least partially surround the phase cables (20a) and / or busbar (20b) in a state depending on an operating point.

Description

[0001] The invention relates to power electronics. The invention relates to a motor vehicle. The invention relates to a method.

[0002] An electric motor vehicle and a power inverter can be connected to each other by several electrically conductive cables and / or busbars.

[0003] Due to the pulsed output voltages of the inverter, these cables and / or busbars can generate electromagnetic fields and thus electromagnetic interference.

[0004] To reduce electromagnetic interference, it is known in the art to use filters. Filters can be, for example, iron cores or inductive components to increase inductance.

[0005] However, the introduction of these filters reduces the power or efficiency of the drive because they generate power losses.

[0006] DE 10 2022 105 371 B3 describes an electrically operated axle drive train for a motor vehicle comprising an electric machine that can be powered by power electronics and a transmission arrangement which is coupled to the electric machine in a torque-transmitting manner, wherein an electrical high-voltage interface is formed between the power electronics and the electric machine, and the power electronics are housed in an inverter casing, wherein the inverter casing is penetrated by at least one first busbar which is electrically coupled to the electric machine, wherein the first busbar penetrates an EMC filter element arranged within the inverter casing, the EMC filter element comprising a ring-shaped ferrite core which is held in a support element.wherein the ferrite core is penetrated by the first busbar and the support element is attached to the housing cover by means of self-sealing screws accessible from outside the housing cover.

[0007] The KR 10 2021 0 108 126 A describes the problem of electromagnetic interference and losses in drive trains, where a filter circuit is used which controls the output voltage of the converter by adjusting the filter inductance, the resonant frequency and the filter capacitance.

[0008] The object of the invention is to improve the performance or efficiency of a motor vehicle drive.

[0009] The problem is solved in particular by a drive or power electronics system having the features of claim 1. The problem is solved in particular by a motor vehicle having the features of claim 7. The problem is solved in particular by a method having the features of claim 8. Features and details described in connection with the power electronics also apply in connection with the motor vehicle and the method. This also applies in reverse, so that the disclosure regarding the individual aspects is always, or can always be, mutually interdependent.

[0010] According to one aspect, the problem is solved in particular by a drive or power electronics for a battery-electric motor vehicle with the features of claim 1.

[0011] This can be a drive system or power electronics for a battery-electric vehicle, comprising at least one inverter and at least one electric drive motor. The inverter is connected to at least one electric drive motor, in particular via several phase cables and / or busbars. The drive system or power electronics particularly includes a ferromagnetic component that is movably arranged and positioned between the inverter and the electric drive motor. The ferromagnetic component is designed such that, depending on an operating point, it can at least partially surround the phase cables and / or busbar in a given state.

[0012] This design allows the inductance of the phases to be increased as needed by repositioning the ferromagnetic component. This has several positive effects: This can lead to an increase in drive efficiency. By increasing the inductance, the phase current ripple can be reduced, which can result in higher drive power and thus contribute to greater efficiency of the entire drivetrain.

[0013] This can enable a reduction in electromagnetic interference. By strategically surrounding the phase cables and / or busbar with the ferromagnetic component, electromagnetic interference can be reduced, which can lead to increased operational reliability of the vehicle.

[0014] It may be possible to reduce losses in the moving filter element. Moving the ferromagnetic component can reduce the magnetic flux within the moving filter element, potentially leading to further increases in drive power and efficiency. Increasing the distance to the conductors can also reduce the magnetic flux in the ferromagnetic component. This, in particular, reduces losses due to magnetization reversal within the component.

[0015] Power electronics are, in particular, a component of an electric powertrain in a motor vehicle, responsible for controlling and managing the electrical circuits. Alternatively or additionally, power electronics can transform between direct current (DC) and alternating current (AC) to drive an electric motor using electrical energy stored in a high-voltage (HV) battery. Power electronics typically include an inverter, at least one electric motor, phase cables, and / or at least one busbar to efficiently distribute energy from the battery to the electric motor.

[0016] A battery-electric vehicle is, in particular, a vehicle that is powered (exclusively) by a high-voltage battery as an energy storage device. In certain embodiments, it does not include an internal combustion engine.

[0017] A converter is, in particular, an electronic circuit that converts the alternating current in an electric drive machine and / or can transform it into a higher / lower voltage.

[0018] An electric drive machine is, in particular, an electric motor that can be designed to convert electrical energy into motion.

[0019] Phase cables are, in particular, cables that transmit alternating current at a specific frequency. They are important for powering electric motors in motor vehicles.

[0020] A busbar is, in particular, a collective term for electrical wiring systems that can be used to transmit current and voltage in an electrical system.

[0021] The ferromagnetic component is, in particular, a part of the power electronics that, by influencing magnetic and / or electric fields, can at least partially shield the phase cables and / or busbar in order to achieve the effects described elsewhere herein. The ferromagnetic component is, in particular, movably arranged so that, depending on an operating point, it can at least partially surround the phase cables and / or busbar in a specific state.

[0022] The term operating point refers specifically to the current operating state of the vehicle, including, for example, the speed and load of the powertrain. This may also include certain currents flowing in the phase cables and / or the busbar.

[0023] If the phase cables and / or busbar are at least partially surrounded in any state, this means, in particular, that the ferromagnetic component surrounds or touches them to some extent. This can alter the influence of magnetic and / or electric fields on the phase cables and / or busbar, which in turn can affect the performance of the powertrain.

[0024] From one perspective, the ferromagnetic component can be moved by means of a hydraulically, pneumatically and / or electromechanically moved device.

[0025] A hydraulically actuated ferromagnetic component is moved, in particular, by means of a hydraulic system. Hydraulics refers specifically to the use of fluids, especially oils and / or water, to transmit energy and perform mechanical work. In the case of hydraulic devices in power electronics, the ferromagnetic component could be moved by means of a hydraulic pump or cylinders driven by oil pressure or a fluid flow. Using a hydraulic device allows the ferromagnetic component to be moved with high precision and force, resulting in precise control of its position.

[0026] A pneumatically actuated ferromagnetic component is moved, in particular, by means of pneumatics. Pneumatics refers specifically to the use of gases (such as air) to perform mechanical work or transmit energy. In the case of pneumatic devices in power electronics, the ferromagnetic component could be moved by means of a pneumatic pump or a cylinder driven by the pressure of a gas (especially air). Using a pneumatic device allows the ferromagnetic component to be moved easily and quickly, which in particular leads to faster adaptation to changing operating conditions.

[0027] An electromechanically moved ferromagnetic component is typically moved by an electric motor. Electromechanics refers specifically to the use of electrical energy sources to perform mechanical movements and work. In the case of electromechanical devices in power electronics, the ferromagnetic component could be moved by means of an electric machine and / or an electric motor or other type of electric drive unit controlled by a voltage source. Using an electromechanical device allows the ferromagnetic component to be electronically controlled and regulated, which can lead to greater precision and control of its position.

[0028] The use of various devices such as hydraulics, pneumatics, or electromechanics makes it possible to individually adapt the operating point to the needs of the vehicle and thus achieve greater efficiency. The device that offers the desired characteristics for the specific vehicle model can be selected.

[0029] From one perspective, the ferromagnetic component can be movably arranged to at least partially surround the phase cables and / or busbars in a given state, depending on an operating point. Alternatively or additionally, the ferromagnetic component can be movably arranged to surround multiple phase cables and / or the busbars, depending on an operating point. Alternatively or additionally, the ferromagnetic component can be movably arranged to completely surround all phase cables (of a cable harness) and / or the busbars, depending on an operating point.

[0030] Busbars are a specific type of electrical connection between an electric machine and the inverter. This electrical connection is implemented, for example, as a cable or a busbar.

[0031] The movable ferromagnetic component allows for adjustment of the phase cable and busbar positioning. This enables the phase cables and busbars to be kept clear of obstructions. This is particularly useful when shielding can be reduced depending on the operating point.

[0032] The movable ferromagnetic component allows multiple phase cables and / or the busbar to be at least partially surrounded in one state. The movable ferromagnetic component allows all phase cables (of a cable harness) and / or the busbars to be at least partially surrounded in one state.

[0033] The movable ferromagnetic component allows several or all phase cables (of a cable bundle) and / or a busbar to be completely surrounded.

[0034] The definition of the phase cable and busbar state refers to the extent to which the ferromagnetic component surrounds or encloses them. If the ferromagnetic component completely surrounds the phase cable and / or busbar, it is in a fully surrounded state. If the ferromagnetic component only partially surrounds the phase cable and / or busbar, they are in at least a partially surrounded state.

[0035] There may also be a release state, which can be provided accordingly if shielding is not desired in an operating state. When the ferromagnetic component releases the phase cable(s) and / or busbar, it is in a different state than the fully or partially enclosed state. This allows the ferromagnetic component to be positioned differently relative to a phase cable and / or busbar to ensure better power transmission.

[0036] Overall, the movable arrangement of the ferromagnetic component improves the energy transfer between the inverter and the electric drive motor, which can lead to higher efficiency. The component can be located between the inverter and the motor, meaning it is not necessarily located in the power electronics but can also be placed in a traction inverter. In some embodiments, the ferromagnetic component can be located within the power electronics.

[0037] From one perspective, the ferromagnetic component can be a single piece or made up of a multitude of sheets insulated from each other. The multitude of sheets insulated from each other can also include independently actuable sheets.

[0038] The one-piece design allows for simplified manufacturing and adaptation to a specific application. By dividing the ferromagnetic component into several individual parts, each part can be moved and controlled independently, resulting in precise control of the circuits and increased efficiency of the entire drive train.

[0039] Dividing the ferromagnetic component into several independent parts allows for greater flexibility and adaptability to different operating conditions. By using multiple independent parts, primarily made of sheet metal, the ferromagnetic component can exhibit the described effects. Furthermore, individual parts of the component can be controlled and regulated independently to enable these effects depending on different operating points and / or conditions.

[0040] From one perspective, the ferromagnetic component can be actively or passively cooled using a fluid, particularly air or liquid. Effective cooling of the ferromagnetic component allows for higher performance, consistent magnetic properties, and a longer service life, especially for power electronics.

[0041] By using active cooling with a fluid, the ferromagnetic component can be effectively cooled to ensure safer and more stable operation of the power electronics.

[0042] By using passive cooling with a fluid, the ferromagnetic component can be cooled without an additional pump or compressor. This method is more economical and less complex than active cooling with a fluid.

[0043] The definition of a coolable ferromagnetic component refers specifically to whether it can be cooled actively or passively by a fluid. Active cooling requires, in particular, an additional compressor or pump to circulate the fluid, while passive cooling can utilize natural movement, such as fluid convection, to cool the component.

[0044] In particular, the option of active and passive cooling of the ferromagnetic component in power electronics improves the performance and lifespan of the entire unit. The choice between actively or passively cooled ferromagnetic material depends primarily on the specific requirements of the vehicle and the operating conditions.

[0045] According to one aspect, the ferromagnetic component can be designed from one or more independently actuated parts. Reference is made to the explanations elsewhere herein, which describe the features, advantages, and effects of this aspect.

[0046] From an independent perspective, a motor vehicle may have power electronics, such as those described elsewhere herein.

[0047] The motor vehicle can be described by the features, properties, and advantages of the process and / or the power electronics. This also applies across the category boundaries of process, device, and system. Thus, the process and / or the power electronics can also be described by the features, properties, and advantages of the motor vehicle. For the sake of readability and conciseness, a repetition of all these features, properties, and advantages is omitted.

[0048] From an independent perspective, a method may include the step of moving a ferromagnetic component of a power electronics system, in particular a power electronics system as described elsewhere herein, especially in a motor vehicle as described elsewhere herein.

[0049] The process can be described by the features, properties, and advantages of the motor vehicle and / or the power electronics. This also applies across the category boundaries of process, device, and system. Thus, the motor vehicle and / or the power electronics can also be described by the features, properties, and advantages of the process. For the sake of readability and conciseness, a repetition of all these features, properties, and advantages is omitted.

[0050] Further advantages, features, and details of the invention will become apparent from the following description, in which exemplary embodiments of the invention are described in detail with reference to the drawings. The features mentioned in the claims and in the description can be essential to the invention individually or in any combination. The drawings schematically show: Fig. 1. A representation of an embodiment of an electric machine and traction converter as well as an embodiment of the movable ferromagnetic component; Fig. 2a a representation of a first embodiment of a ferromagnetic movable component; Fig. 2b a representation of a second embodiment of a ferromagnetic movable component; Fig. 3 a representation of an embodiment of a method.

[0051] Fig. Figure 1 shows an embodiment of a drive 10 (in embodiments, power electronics may also be configured accordingly). This drive includes, in particular, an inverter 12, which is connected to an electric drive motor 14 by means of electrical connections 20. A ferromagnetic component 16 may be configured to be slid along the electrical connection 20 in a direction 18 relative to its path. The ferromagnetic component 16 may have a holder 19 to which it can be connected with a hydraulic, pneumatic, or electromechanical device 17 to initiate and execute the movement in direction 18.

[0052] Fig. Figure 2a shows a representation of a first exemplary embodiment of a ferromagnetic movable component 16a, which can be designed in a horseshoe shape. This allows the ferromagnetic component 16a to be moved in one direction 18 via phase cables 20a, which can serve as electrical connections 20.

[0053] Fig. Figure 2b shows a representation of a second exemplary embodiment of a ferromagnetic movable component 16, which can be designed as an O-ring to surround all phase cables 20a (not shown here) or to surround a busbar 20b as an electrical connection 20, as shown here.

[0054] Regarding the Fig. 2a and Fig. 2b. It is possible that the embodiments shown can also be used for the other electrical connection 20, i.e., for phase cables 20a and busbars 20b. Alternatively or additionally, other embodiments can also be implemented, e.g., ring-shaped or U-shaped.

[0055] Fig. Figure 3 shows an exemplary embodiment of a method 100, which includes a step for determining an operating point 102. The method 100 may include a step for moving a ferromagnetic component 16 to at least partially surround an electrical connection 20. The method may include a step for retraction 106, in which the ferromagnetic component 16 can at least partially release the electrical connection 20 again when the operating point changes. In other embodiments or other situations, movement towards the receptacle 22 may also occur, as described, for example, in the Fig. 2A and Fig. 2B is shown.

[0056] The preceding explanation of the embodiments describes the present invention solely by way of examples. Naturally, individual features of the embodiments can be freely combined with one another, provided this is technically feasible, without departing from the scope of the present invention.

Claims

[1] Drive (10) or power electronics for a battery electric motor vehicle, comprising at least one inverter (12) and at least one electric drive motor (14), wherein the inverter (12) is connected to at least one electric drive motor (14) by several phase cables (20a) and / or busbars (20b), wherein a ferromagnetic component (16) is formed and movably arranged between the inverter (12) and the electric drive motor (14) in order to at least partially surround the phase cables (20a) and / or busbar (20b) in a state depending on an operating point. [2] Drive (10) or power electronics according to claim 1, characterized by , that the ferromagnetic component (16) is movable by means of a hydraulically and / or pneumatically and / or electromechanically moved device (17). [3] Drive (10) or power electronics according to any of the preceding claims, characterized by, that the ferromagnetic component (16) is movable such that at least one of the following configurations is assumed in the state: no phase cable (20a) and / or busbar (20b) is surrounded, several phase cables (20a) are surrounded, or all phase cables (20a) are surrounded; the busbar (20b) is surrounded. [4] Drive (10) or power electronics according to any of the preceding claims, characterized by , that the ferromagnetic component (16) is formed in one piece or from a plurality of sheets insulated from each other. [5] Drive (10) or power electronics according to any of the preceding claims, characterized by that the ferromagnetic component (16) can be cooled actively or passively by means of fluid, in particular by means of air or liquid. [6] Drive (10) or power electronics according to any of the preceding claims, characterized by, that the ferromagnetic component (16) is formed from one or more independently actuable parts. [7] Battery electric motor vehicle comprising a drive (10) or power electronics according to any of the preceding claims. [8] Method (100) comprising the step of moving (104) a ferromagnetic component (16) of a drive (10) or power electronics according to any one of claims 1 to 6 in a motor vehicle according to claim 7, in such a way as to surround phase cables (20a) and / or busbars (20b) at least partially in a state.

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