Power supply system, mobile body, and power supply system control method

Abstract

To provide an energy-efficient power supply system, a control method therefor, and a mobile body using the same.SOLUTION: A power supply system 10 includes a first power supply circuit 12a, a second power supply circuit 12b, a connection circuit 18a equipped with a connection device 20a that can connect the first power supply circuit and the second power supply circuit to each other, a breaker device 22a, and a control device, and the connection circuit includes a reactor 23a connected in series to the connection device. When a malfunction occurs in the supply of power from a first power generation device 14a to the first power supply circuit 12a, the control device performs connection control on the connection device with the first power supply circuit and the connection circuit disconnected from the first power generation device by the breaker device.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a power supply system, a mobile object, and a method for controlling a power supply system. [Background technology]

[0002] In recent years, research and development into electrification technologies that contribute to energy efficiency has been conducted to ensure that more people have access to affordable, reliable, sustainable and advanced energy.

[0003] Patent Document 1 listed below discloses an aircraft electric energy supply network (power supply system). [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0004] [Patent Document 1] Special Publication No. 2022-529997 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0005] There is a need for better power supply systems and methods of controlling mobile objects and power supply systems.

[0006] The present disclosure aims to solve the above-mentioned problems. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] A first aspect of the present disclosure is a power supply system comprising: a first power supply circuit that supplies DC power output from a first power generation device to a first load device; a second power supply circuit that supplies DC power output from a second power generation device to a second load device; a connection circuit equipped with a connection device that can connect the first power supply circuit and the second power supply circuit to each other; a control device that can execute connection control on the connection device to connect the first power supply circuit and the second power supply circuit to each other via the connection circuit; and a shut-off device that can disconnect the first power generation device from the first power supply circuit and the connection circuit, wherein the connection circuit is equipped with a reactor connected in series to the connection device, and when a malfunction occurs in the supply of power from the first power generation device to the first power supply circuit, the control device executes the connection control on the connection device with the first power supply circuit and the connection circuit disconnected from the first power generation device by the shut-off device.

[0008] A second aspect of the present disclosure is a mobile object including the power supply system according to the first aspect.

[0009] A third aspect of the present disclosure is a control method for a power supply system comprising: a first power supply circuit that supplies DC power output from a first power generation device to a first load device; a second power supply circuit that supplies DC power output from a second power generation device to a second load device; a connection circuit equipped with a connection device that can connect the first power supply circuit and the second power supply circuit to each other; and a shutoff device that can disconnect the first power generation device from the first power supply circuit and the connection circuit, wherein the connection circuit is equipped with a reactor connected in series to the connection device, and when a malfunction occurs in the supply of power from the first power generation device to the first power supply circuit, the control method for a power supply system performs connection control on the connection device to connect the first power supply circuit and the second power supply circuit to each other via the connection circuit, with the first power supply circuit and the connection circuit disconnected from the first power generation device by the shutoff device. [Effects of the Invention]

[0010] According to the present disclosure, it is possible to provide a better power supply system, a mobile object, and a method for controlling a power supply system. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0011] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram of a power supply system according to an embodiment. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram of the first power generating device. [Figure 3] FIG. 3 is a schematic diagram showing the configuration of a backflow prevention device. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is a control block diagram of the control device. [Figure 5] FIG. 5 is a diagram showing the operation of the power supply system in a normal state. [Figure 6] FIG. 6 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a control method for the power supply system according to the embodiment. [Figure 7] FIG. 7 is a diagram showing the operation of the power supply system in the event of an abnormality. [Figure 8] FIG. 8 is a diagram showing the operation of the power supply system in the event of an abnormality. [Figure 9] FIG. 9 is a diagram showing the operation of the power supply system in the event of an abnormality. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing the operation of the power supply system in the event of an abnormality. [Figure 11] FIG. 11 is a diagram showing a state in which the output of the first generator is short-circuited. [Figure 12] FIG. 12 is a schematic diagram of a moving object. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0012] The power supply system includes, for example, a first power supply circuit that supplies DC power output from a first power generation device to a first load device and a second power supply circuit that supplies DC power output from a second power generation device to a second load device. The power supply system also includes a connection circuit that includes a connection device that can connect the first power supply circuit and the second power supply circuit to each other. In this case, when connection control is performed to connect the first power supply circuit and the second power supply circuit to each other via the connection circuit, an inrush current flows from one power supply circuit to the other power supply circuit. That is, the inrush current flows in the first power supply circuit or the second power supply circuit. This may damage electronic devices included in the first power supply circuit or the second power supply circuit. The present disclosure may provide a power supply system, a mobile object, and a control method for a power supply system that can suppress damage to electronic devices due to the inrush current.

[0013] Fig. 1 is a schematic diagram of a power supply system 10 according to this embodiment. As shown in Fig. 1, the power supply system 10 includes a first power supply circuit 12a, a second power supply circuit 12b, a third power supply circuit 12c, and a fourth power supply circuit 12d.

[0014] The first power supply circuit 12a supplies the DC power output from the first power generation device 14a to the first load device 16a. The second power supply circuit 12b supplies the DC power output from the second power generation device 14b to the second load device 16b. The third power supply circuit 12c supplies the DC power output from the first power generation device 14a to the third load device 16c. The fourth power supply circuit 12d supplies the DC power output from the second power generation device 14b to the fourth load device 16d.

[0015] The first power generating device 14a includes a first engine 11a, a first generator 13a, and a first power conversion device 15a. The second power generating device 14b includes a second engine 11b, a second generator 13b, and a second power conversion device 15b. The first engine 11a and the second engine 11b are, for example, gas turbine engines. Note that the first engine 11a and the second engine 11b may be other engines such as reciprocating engines. The first generator 13a is driven by the first engine 11a and generates three-phase AC power. The first power conversion device 15a converts the three-phase AC power output from the first generator 13a into DC power. The second generator 13b is driven by the second engine 11b and generates three-phase AC power. The second power conversion device 15b converts the three-phase AC power output from the second generator 13b into DC power.

[0016] Fig. 2 is a schematic diagram of the first power generation device 14a of this embodiment. The configuration of the second power generation device 14b is the same as the configuration of the first power generation device 14a. As shown in Fig. 2, the first power conversion device 15a of the first power generation device 14a has upper arm switching elements 17a to 17c, lower arm switching elements 19a to 19c, and a smoothing capacitor 21.

[0017] The switching elements 17a to 17c and the switching elements 19a to 19c are semiconductor switches such as MOSFETs (Metal Oxide Semiconductor Field Effect Transistors), IGBTs (Insulated Gate Bipolar Transistors), etc. Freewheeling diodes may be provided in parallel with the switching elements 17a to 17c and the switching elements 19a to 19c, respectively.

[0018] In first power conversion device 15a, the on / off timings of switching elements 17a-17c and switching elements 19a-19c are controlled, thereby rectifying the three-phase AC power output from first generator 13a and converting it into DC power. Voltage fluctuations of the rectified DC power are suppressed in smoothing capacitor 21, and DC power with a stable voltage is output from first power conversion device 15a. Before starting first generator 13a, smoothing capacitor 21 needs to be charged.

[0019] The first power conversion device 15a and the second power conversion device 15b may also include various elements such as various sensors such as voltage sensors and current sensors, fuses, relays, breakers, diodes, transistors, resistors, coils, and capacitors.

[0020] As shown in FIG. 1, the first load device 16a, the second load device 16b, the third load device 16c, and the fourth load device 16d each include, for example, an inverter (not shown) and electric motors 50, 54 (see FIG. 12). The inverter converts input DC power into three-phase AC power, and the electric motors 50, 54 are driven by the three-phase AC power. The first load device 16a, the second load device 16b, the third load device 16c, and the fourth load device 16d may also include a DC / DC converter and a low-voltage drive device (not shown). The DC / DC converter reduces the voltage of the input DC power, and the low-voltage drive device is driven by the DC power.

[0021] The first load device 16a, the second load device 16b, the third load device 16c, and the fourth load device 16d may include various sensors such as voltage sensors and current sensors, fuses, relays, breakers, diodes, transistors, resistors, coils, capacitors, and other elements. A plurality of first load devices 16a may be connected in parallel to the first power supply circuit 12a. A plurality of second load devices 16b may be connected in parallel to the second power supply circuit 12b. A plurality of third load devices 16c may be connected in parallel to the third power supply circuit 12c. A plurality of fourth load devices 16d may be connected in parallel to the fourth power supply circuit 12d.

[0022] The power supply system 10 includes a connection circuit 18a and a connection circuit 18b. The connection circuit 18a includes a connection device 20a and a reactor 23a. The connection circuit 18b includes a connection device 20b and a reactor 23b.

[0023] The connection device 20a can connect the first power supply circuit 12a and the second power supply circuit 12b. The connection device 20a is switched by a contactor (not shown) between a state in which the first power supply circuit 12a and the second power supply circuit 12b are connected and a state in which the first power supply circuit 12a and the second power supply circuit 12b are disconnected. The reactor 23a is connected in series to the connection device 20a. The reactor 23a is provided in each of the positive and negative power lines of the connection circuit 18a.

[0024] Similarly, the connection device 20b can connect the third power supply circuit 12c and the fourth power supply circuit 12d. The connection device 20b is switched by a contactor (not shown) between a state in which the third power supply circuit 12c and the fourth power supply circuit 12d are connected and a state in which the third power supply circuit 12c and the fourth power supply circuit 12d are disconnected. The reactor 23b is connected in series with the connection device 20b. The reactor 23b is provided in each of the positive and negative power lines of the connection circuit 18b.

[0025] The connection devices 20a and 20b may have relays instead of contactors. The connection devices 20a and 20b may have breakers instead of contactors. The connection devices 20a and 20b may have semiconductor switches instead of contactors. The reactors 23a and 23b may be air-core reactors or iron-core reactors. Each of the reactors 23a and 23b is an inductor (a passive electrical component) formed by winding an electric wire into a coil. When a current flows through the coils of the reactors 23a and 23b, a magnetic field (back electromotive force) is generated in the coil, and this magnetic field (back electromotive force) obstructs the flow of current.

[0026] Normally, the first power supply circuit 12a and the second power supply circuit 12b are disconnected. This prevents an abnormality from occurring in either the first power supply circuit 12a or the second power supply circuit 12b from affecting the other. For example, if an overcurrent occurs in either the first power supply circuit 12a or the second power supply circuit 12b, the overcurrent is prevented from flowing in the other.

[0027] Similarly, the third power supply circuit 12c and the fourth power supply circuit 12d are normally disconnected. This prevents an abnormality from occurring in either the third power supply circuit 12c or the fourth power supply circuit 12d from affecting the other. For example, if an overcurrent occurs in either the third power supply circuit 12c or the fourth power supply circuit 12d, the overcurrent is prevented from flowing in the other.

[0028] When a problem occurs in the supply of power from the first power generating device 14a to the first power supply circuit 12a, the connection device 20a connects the first power supply circuit 12a and the second power supply circuit 12b. This allows power to be supplied from the second power supply circuit 12b to the first power supply circuit 12a. As described above, the connection circuit 18a for connecting the first power supply circuit 12a and the second power supply circuit 12b includes the connection device 20a and the reactor 23a. As described above, the reactor 23a is connected in series to the connection device 20a. When the supply of power from the second power supply circuit 12b to the first power supply circuit 12a begins, a back electromotive force is generated in the reactor 23a, thereby reducing the peak value of the inrush current flowing from the second power supply circuit 12b to the first power supply circuit 12a. This can protect electronic devices included in the first power supply circuit 12a.

[0029] In the event of a malfunction in the supply of power from the first power generating device 14a to the third power supply circuit 12c, the connection device 20b connects the third power supply circuit 12c to the fourth power supply circuit 12d. This allows power to be supplied from the fourth power supply circuit 12d to the third power supply circuit 12c. As described above, the connection circuit 18b for connecting the third power supply circuit 12c to the fourth power supply circuit 12d includes the connection device 20b and the reactor 23b. As described above, the reactor 23b is connected in series to the connection device 20b. When the supply of power from the fourth power supply circuit 12d to the third power supply circuit 12c begins, a back electromotive force is generated in the reactor 23b, thereby reducing the peak value of the inrush current flowing from the fourth power supply circuit 12d to the third power supply circuit 12c. This can protect electronic devices included in the third power supply circuit 12c.

[0030] If a problem occurs in the supply of power from the second power generating device 14b to the second power supply circuit 12b, the first power supply circuit 12a and the second power supply circuit 12b are connected by the connection device 20a. This allows power to be supplied from the first power supply circuit 12a to the second power supply circuit 12b. When the supply of power from the first power supply circuit 12a to the second power supply circuit 12b begins, a back electromotive force is generated in the reactor 23a, so the peak value of the inrush current flowing from the first power supply circuit 12a to the second power supply circuit 12b is kept low. This makes it possible to protect electronic devices provided in the second power supply circuit 12b.

[0031] If a problem occurs in the supply of power from the second power generating device 14b to the fourth power supply circuit 12d, the connection device 20b connects the third power supply circuit 12c and the fourth power supply circuit 12d. This allows power to be supplied from the third power supply circuit 12c to the fourth power supply circuit 12d. When the supply of power from the third power supply circuit 12c to the fourth power supply circuit 12d begins, a back electromotive force is generated in the reactor 23b, which reduces the peak value of the inrush current flowing from the third power supply circuit 12c to the fourth power supply circuit 12d. This can protect electronic devices provided in the fourth power supply circuit 12d.

[0032] The power supply system 10 includes interrupting devices 22a to 22d. The interrupting device 22a can interrupt the first power generating device 14a from the first power supply circuit 12a and the connection circuit 18a. The interrupting device 22b can interrupt the second power generating device 14b from the second power supply circuit 12b and the connection circuit 18a. The interrupting device 22c can interrupt the first power generating device 14a from the third power supply circuit 12c and the connection circuit 18b. The interrupting device 22d can interrupt the second power generating device 14b from the fourth power supply circuit 12d and the connection circuit 18b.

[0033] The circuit breaker 22a switches, by a contactor (not shown), between a state in which the first power generator 14a is disconnected from the first power supply circuit 12a and the connection circuit 18a and a state in which the first power generator 14a is connected to the first power supply circuit 12a and the connection circuit 18a. Similarly, the circuit breaker 22b switches, by a contactor (not shown), between a state in which the second power generator 14b is disconnected from the second power supply circuit 12b and the connection circuit 18a and a state in which the second power generator 14b is connected to the second power supply circuit 12b and the connection circuit 18a.

[0034] Furthermore, the circuit breaker 22c switches, by a contactor (not shown), between a state in which the first power generator 14a is disconnected from the third power supply circuit 12c and the connection circuit 18b and a state in which the first power generator 14a is connected to the third power supply circuit 12c and the connection circuit 18b. Similarly, the circuit breaker 22d switches, by a contactor (not shown), between a state in which the second power generator 14b is disconnected from the fourth power supply circuit 12d and the connection circuit 18b and a state in which the second power generator 14b is connected to the fourth power supply circuit 12d and the connection circuit 18b.

[0035] The interrupting devices 22a to 22d may have a relay instead of a contactor.The interrupting devices 22a to 22d may have a breaker instead of a contactor.The interrupting devices 22a to 22d may have a semiconductor switch instead of a contactor.

[0036] The power supply system 10 includes a first power storage device 24a, a second power storage device 24b, a third power storage device 24c, and a fourth power storage device 24d. The first power storage device 24a is connected to the first power supply circuit 12a in parallel with the first power generation device 14a. The second power storage device 24b is connected to the second power supply circuit 12b in parallel with the second power generation device 14b. The third power storage device 24c is connected to the third power supply circuit 12c in parallel with the first power generation device 14a. The fourth power storage device 24d is connected to the fourth power supply circuit 12d in parallel with the second power generation device 14b.

[0037] The first power storage device 24a, the second power storage device 24b, the third power storage device 24c, and the fourth power storage device 24d include lithium-ion batteries. The first power storage device 24a, the second power storage device 24b, the third power storage device 24c, and the fourth power storage device 24d may include secondary batteries other than lithium-ion batteries. The first power storage device 24a, the second power storage device 24b, the third power storage device 24c, and the fourth power storage device 24d may include large-capacity capacitors.

[0038] The first power storage device 24a, the second power storage device 24b, the third power storage device 24c, and the fourth power storage device 24d may have various elements such as various sensors such as voltage sensors and current sensors, fuses, relays, breakers, diodes, transistors, resistors, coils, and capacitors.

[0039] The power supply system 10 includes interrupting devices 26a to 26d. The interrupting device 26a can disconnect the first power storage device 24a from the first power supply circuit 12a and the first load device 16a. The interrupting device 26b can disconnect the second power storage device 24b from the second power supply circuit 12b and the second load device 16b. The interrupting device 26c can disconnect the third power storage device 24c from the third power supply circuit 12c and the third load device 16c. The interrupting device 26d can disconnect the fourth power storage device 24d from the fourth power supply circuit 12d and the fourth load device 16d.

[0040] The circuit breaker 26a switches, by a contactor (not shown), between a state in which the first power storage device 24a is disconnected from the first power supply circuit 12a and the first load device 16a and a state in which the first power storage device 24a is connected to the first power supply circuit 12a and the first load device 16a. Similarly, the circuit breaker 26b switches, by a contactor (not shown), between a state in which the second power storage device 24b is disconnected from the second power supply circuit 12b and the second load device 16b and a state in which the second power storage device 24b is connected to the second power supply circuit 12b and the second load device 16b.

[0041] Furthermore, circuit breaker 26c switches, by a contactor (not shown), between a state in which third power storage device 24c is disconnected from third power supply circuit 12c and third load device 16c and a state in which third power storage device 24c is connected to third power supply circuit 12c and third load device 16c. Similarly, circuit breaker 26d switches, by a contactor (not shown), between a state in which fourth power storage device 24d is disconnected from fourth power supply circuit 12d and fourth load device 16d and a state in which fourth power storage device 24d is connected to fourth power supply circuit 12d and fourth load device 16d.

[0042] The circuit breakers 26a to 26d may have relays instead of contactors.The circuit breakers 26a to 26d may have breakers instead of contactors.The circuit breakers 26a to 26d may have semiconductor switches instead of contactors.

[0043] The power supply system 10 includes backflow prevention devices 28a to 28d. The backflow prevention device 28a limits the supply of power from the first power storage device 24a to the first power supply circuit 12a. The backflow prevention device 28b limits the supply of power from the second power storage device 24b to the second power supply circuit 12b. The backflow prevention device 28c limits the supply of power from the third power storage device 24c to the third power supply circuit 12c. The backflow prevention device 28d limits the supply of power from the fourth power storage device 24d to the fourth power supply circuit 12d.

[0044] 3 is a schematic diagram showing the configuration of backflow prevention device 28a in this embodiment. As shown in FIG. 3, backflow prevention devices 28b to 28d have the same configuration as backflow prevention device 28a. Backflow prevention device 28a includes a diode 30 and a transistor 32.

[0045] The diode 30 is provided on the positive wiring. When the anode voltage is lower than the cathode voltage, the diode 30 barely passes any current. When the anode voltage is higher than the cathode voltage and the potential difference between the cathode and anode is equal to or greater than the forward voltage, the diode 30 passes current. As a result, power is supplied from the first power supply circuit 12a to the first load device 16a and the first power storage device 24a via the diode 30. On the other hand, power is not supplied from the first load device 16a and the first power storage device 24a to the first power supply circuit 12a via the diode 30.

[0046] The transistor 32 is provided to bypass the diode 30. When a current flows from the base to the emitter of the transistor 32, the current flows from the collector to the emitter. This causes power to be supplied from the first power storage device 24a to the first power supply circuit 12a via the transistor 32. If power is not supplied from the first power storage device 24a to the first power supply circuit 12a, the transistor 32 may be omitted. Instead of the transistor 32, another switching element or a contactor may be used.

[0047] The diode 30 may be provided on the negative electrode wiring, or on both the positive electrode wiring and the negative electrode wiring.

[0048] In addition to the configuration described above, the power supply system 10 may include various sensors such as a voltage sensor and a current sensor, and various elements such as fuses, resistors, coils, and capacitors.

[0049] FIG. 4 is a control block diagram of the control device 34 in this embodiment. As shown in FIG. 4, the power supply system 10 includes the control device 34. The control device 34 controls the first power conversion device 15a, the second power conversion device 15b, the connection device 20a, the connection device 20b, the circuit breakers 22a to 22d, and the circuit breakers 26a to 26d. The control device 34 may control the connection device 20a, the connection device 20b, the circuit breakers 22a to 22d, and the circuit breakers 26a to 26d, and a control device separate from the control device 34 may control the first power conversion device 15a and the second power conversion device 15b. The control device 34 may also be configured with multiple control units (ECUs: Electronic Control Units). In this case, for example, the control device 34 may include a control unit that controls the circuit breaker 22a of the first power supply circuit 12a and a control unit that controls the circuit breaker 22b of the second power supply circuit 12b.

[0050] The control device 34 has a calculation unit 36 ​​and a storage unit 38. The calculation unit 36 ​​is a processor such as a CPU (Central Processing Unit) or a GPU (Graphics Processing Unit). The calculation unit 36 ​​controls each device by executing a program stored in the storage unit 38. At least a part of the calculation unit 36 ​​may be realized by an integrated circuit such as an ASIC (Application Specific Integrated Circuit) or an FPGA (Field-Programmable Gate Array). At least a part of the calculation unit 36 ​​may be realized by an electronic circuit including discrete devices.

[0051] The storage unit 38 is configured by a volatile memory (not shown) and a nonvolatile memory (not shown), which are computer-readable storage media. The volatile memory is, for example, a random access memory (RAM). The nonvolatile memory is, for example, a read-only memory (ROM), a flash memory, etc. Data and the like are stored in, for example, the volatile memory. Programs, tables, maps, etc. are stored in, for example, the nonvolatile memory. At least a portion of the storage unit 38 may be provided in the above-mentioned processor, integrated circuit, etc.

[0052] 12 is a schematic diagram of a moving object 44. As shown in FIG.

[0053] The moving body 44 of this embodiment is an electric vertical take-off and landing aircraft (eVTOL). The moving body 44 includes eight VTOL rotors 46. The VTOL rotors 46 generate thrust in the upward direction relative to the airframe 48. The moving body 44 includes eight electric motors 50. Each electric motor 50 drives one VTOL rotor 46. The moving body 44 has two cruise rotors 52. The cruise rotors 52 generate thrust in the forward direction relative to the airframe 48. The moving body 44 includes four electric motors 54. Each electric motor 54 drives one cruise rotor 52.

[0054] Each of the first load device 16a, the second load device 16b, the third load device 16c, and the fourth load device 16d includes two electric motors 50 and one electric motor 54. Each of the first load device 16a, the second load device 16b, the third load device 16c, and the fourth load device 16d may include a low-voltage drive device in addition to the electric motors 50 and 54.

[0055] The moving object 44 is not limited to an aircraft, but may be a ship, an automobile, a train, or the like.

[0056] 5 is a diagram showing the normal operation of the power supply system 10 in this embodiment. Arrows in FIG. 5 indicate power supply paths.

[0057] 5, the first power generating device 14a is connected to the first power supply circuit 12a by the circuit breaker 22a, and the first power generating device 14a is connected to the third power supply circuit 12c by the circuit breaker 22c. As a result, the three-phase AC power output from the first power generator 13a is converted into DC power by the first power conversion device 15a and supplied to the first load device 16a and the third load device 16c.

[0058] The second power generating device 14b is connected to the second power supply circuit 12b by the interrupter 22b, and the second power generating device 14b is connected to the fourth power supply circuit 12d by the interrupter 22d. As a result, the three-phase AC power output from the second power generator 13b is converted to DC power by the second power converter 15b and supplied to the second load device 16b and the fourth load device 16d.

[0059] The first power storage device 24a is connected to the first load device 16a by the interrupting device 26a. As a result, the DC power output from the first power storage device 24a is supplied to the first load device 16a. The second power storage device 24b is connected to the second load device 16b by the interrupting device 26b. As a result, the DC power output from the second power storage device 24b is supplied to the second load device 16b. The third power storage device 24c is connected to the third load device 16c by the interrupting device 26c. As a result, the DC power output from the third power storage device 24c is supplied to the third load device 16c. The fourth power storage device 24d is connected to the fourth load device 16d by the interrupting device 26d. As a result, the DC power output from the fourth power storage device 24d is supplied to the fourth load device 16d.

[0060] Normally, the first power supply circuit 12a and the second power supply circuit 12b are disconnected by the connection device 20a, and the third power supply circuit 12c and the fourth power supply circuit 12d are disconnected by the connection device 20b.

[0061] Fig. 6 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a control method for the power supply system 10 according to the embodiment. The process of Fig. 6 is executed at a predetermined cycle. Figs. 7 to 10 are diagrams illustrating the operation of the power supply system 10 in the event of an abnormality. Arrows in Figs. 7 to 10 indicate power supply paths.

[0062] Here, a case will be described as an example in which a malfunction occurs in the supply of power from the first power generating device 14a to the first power supply circuit 12a and the third power supply circuit 12c when the moving body 44, which is an electric vertical take-off and landing aircraft, ascends while flying forward to transition to cruise flight. Hereinafter, the ascending of the moving body 44 while flying forward to transition to cruise flight may be simply referred to as the ascent of the moving body 44. Specifically, a case in which the first engine 11a misfires while the moving body 44 is ascending will be described as an example. In this case, it is necessary to restart the first engine 11a to maintain the ascent of the moving body 44.

[0063] In step S1, the control device 34 determines whether a malfunction has occurred in the supply of power from the first power generating device 14a to the first power supply circuit 12a and the third power supply circuit 12c. The control device 34 determines that a malfunction has occurred, for example, when the supply of power from the first power generating device 14a to the first power supply circuit 12a and the third power supply circuit 12c is cut off. The control device 34 may also determine that a malfunction has occurred, for example, when the power supplied from the first power generating device 14a to the first power supply circuit 12a and the third power supply circuit 12c falls below a target power. The control device 34 may determine that a malfunction has occurred in the supply of power from the first power generating device 14a to the first power supply circuit 12a and the third power supply circuit 12c when, for example, an abnormality is detected in at least one of the first engine 11a and the first generator 13a. The control device 34 can detect an abnormality in at least one of the first engine 11a and the first generator 13a when the output of the first generator 13a falls below the target output, when the rotation speed of the first generator 13a is lower than the target rotation speed, or when the amount of current output from the first generator 13a is lower than the target current. In this embodiment, the control device 34 determines whether the first engine 11a has misfired. The control device 34 can determine whether the first engine 11a has misfired based on a signal output from a current sensor (not shown) provided in the first power supply circuit 12a. The control device 34 can also determine whether the first engine 11a has misfired based on a signal output from the first power conversion device 15a.

[0064] If it is determined that there is no problem with the supply of power from the first power generating device 14a to the first power supply circuit 12a and the third power supply circuit 12c (NO in step S1), the processing of FIG. 6 is completed.

[0065] If it is determined that a problem has occurred in the supply of power from the first power generating device 14a to the first power supply circuit 12a and the third power supply circuit 12c (YES in step S1), the process proceeds to step S2.

[0066] In step S2, the control device 34 controls the interruption device 22a to interrupt the first power generation device 14a from the first power supply circuit 12a and the connection circuit 18a. Hereinafter, this interruption may be referred to as "first interruption." As shown in FIG. 7, when the first interruption is performed, the supply of power from the first power generation device 14a to the first load device 16a is interrupted. In this case, only the DC power output from the first power storage device 24a is supplied to the first load device 16a. Therefore, the output voltage and SOC of the first power storage device 24a are likely to decrease. That is, the output voltage and SOC of the first power storage device 24a may become lower than the output voltage and SOC of the second power storage device 24b. Furthermore, the charge of the smoothing capacitor 21 of the first power conversion device 15a is released. After this, the process proceeds to step S3.

[0067] In step S3, the control device 34 controls the interrupting device 22c to interrupt the first power generation device 14a from the third power supply circuit 12c and the connection circuit 18b. This interruption may be referred to as a "second interruption." As shown in FIG. 7, when the second interruption is performed, the supply of power from the first power generation device 14a to the third load device 16c is interrupted. In this case, only the DC power output from the third power storage device 24c is supplied to the third load device 16c. Therefore, the output voltage and SOC of the third power storage device 24c are likely to decrease. In other words, the output voltage and SOC of the third power storage device 24c may decrease below the output voltage and SOC of the fourth power storage device 24d. Note that step S3 may be performed simultaneously with step S2 or before step S2. After steps S2 and S3, the process proceeds to step S4.

[0068] In step S4, the control device 34 executes first connection control on the connection device 20a. As a result, the first power supply circuit 12a and the second power supply circuit 12b are connected via the connection circuit 18a, as shown in FIG. 8. The DC power output from the second power generation device 14b is supplied to the first load device 16a via the second power supply circuit 12b, the connection circuit 18a, and the first power supply circuit 12a. This prevents the output of the electric motors 50, 54 of the first load device 16a from being excessively reduced due to a reduction in the output voltage of the first power storage device 24a. Depending on the situation, the DC power output from the second power generation device 14b may be used to charge the first power storage device 24a.

[0069] Furthermore, reactor 23a is connected in series to connection device 20a. When power supply from second power supply circuit 12b to first power supply circuit 12a starts upon switching to the first connection control, a back electromotive force is generated in reactor 23a, and the peak value of the inrush current flowing from second power supply circuit 12b to first power supply circuit 12a is kept low. This makes it possible to prevent damage to first load device 16a or first power storage device 24a.

[0070] Furthermore, since the DC power output from the second power generation device 14b is supplied to the first load device 16a, the load on the first power storage device 24a is reduced, and therefore a decrease in the output voltage and SOC of the first power storage device 24a is suppressed. In this case, since no power is supplied from the second power generation device 14b to the second load device 16b, only the DC power output from the second power storage device 24b is supplied to the second load device 16b. Therefore, the output voltage and SOC of the second power storage device 24b are likely to decrease. After this, the process proceeds to step S5.

[0071] In step S5, the control device 34 executes second connection control on the connection device 20b. As a result, the third power supply circuit 12c and the fourth power supply circuit 12d are connected via the connection circuit 18b, as shown in FIG. 8. The DC power output from the second power generation device 14b is supplied to the third load device 16c via the fourth power supply circuit 12d, the connection circuit 18b, and the third power supply circuit 12c. This prevents the output of the electric motors 50, 54 of the third load device 16c from being excessively reduced due to a reduction in the output voltage of the third power storage device 24c. Depending on the situation, the DC power output from the second power generation device 14b may be used to charge the third power storage device 24c.

[0072] Furthermore, reactor 23b is connected in series to connection device 20b. When power supply from fourth power supply circuit 12d to third power supply circuit 12c starts upon switching to the second connection control, a back electromotive force is generated in reactor 23b, and the peak value of the inrush current flowing from fourth power supply circuit 12d to third power supply circuit 12c is kept low. This makes it possible to prevent damage to third load device 16c or third power storage device 24c.

[0073] Furthermore, since the DC power output from the second power generation device 14b is supplied to the third load device 16c, the load on the third power storage device 24c is reduced, thereby suppressing a decrease in the output voltage and SOC of the third power storage device 24c. In this case, since power is not supplied from the second power generation device 14b to the fourth load device 16d, only the DC power output from the fourth power storage device 24d is supplied to the fourth load device 16d. Therefore, the output voltage and SOC of the fourth power storage device 24d are likely to decrease. When the output voltages (SOCs) of the first power storage device 24a, the second power storage device 24b, the third power storage device 24c, and the fourth power storage device 24d become equal, the power output from the second power generation device 14b is supplied to the first load device 16a, the second load device 16b, the third load device 16c, and the fourth load device 16d, respectively. Note that step S5 may be performed simultaneously with step S4 or before step S4. After steps S4 and S5, the process proceeds to step S6.

[0074] In step S6, the control device 34 determines whether the difference between the output voltage of the first power storage device 24a and the output voltage of the second power storage device 24b is equal to or less than a predetermined voltage threshold. If it is determined that the difference between the output voltage of the first power storage device 24a and the output voltage of the second power storage device 24b is greater than the voltage threshold (NO in step S6), the process of step S6 is repeated. If it is determined that the difference between the output voltage of the first power storage device 24a and the output voltage of the second power storage device 24b is equal to or less than the voltage threshold (YES in step S6), the process proceeds to step S7.

[0075] In step S7, the control device 34 determines whether the difference between the output voltage of the third power storage device 24c and the output voltage of the fourth power storage device 24d is equal to or less than a predetermined voltage threshold. If it is determined that the difference between the output voltage of the third power storage device 24c and the output voltage of the fourth power storage device 24d is greater than the voltage threshold (NO in step S7), the process of step S7 is repeated. If it is determined that the difference between the output voltage of the third power storage device 24c and the output voltage of the fourth power storage device 24d is equal to or less than the voltage threshold (YES in step S7), the process proceeds to step S8.

[0076] In step S8, the control device 34 cancels the first cutoff. As a result, as shown in FIG. 9, the DC power output from the second power generation device 14b is supplied to the first power conversion device 15a via the second power supply circuit 12b, the connection circuit 18a, and the first power supply circuit 12a. This charges the smoothing capacitor 21 of the first power conversion device 15a. Furthermore, when the current flowing through the connection circuit 18a increases due to the release of the first cutoff, a back electromotive force is generated in the reactor 23a. This reduces the peak value of the inrush current flowing from the first power supply circuit 12a to the first power conversion device 15a. Therefore, damage to the first power conversion device 15a can be suppressed. In step S8, the DC power output from the second power generation device 14b can also be supplied to the first load device 16a. After this, the process proceeds to step S9.

[0077] In step S9, the control device 34 executes recovery control to recover the first power generation device 14a. Specifically, the control device 34 controls the first power conversion device 15a to restart the first engine 11a using the power charged in the smoothing capacitor 21 of the first power conversion device 15a. After this, the process proceeds to step S10.

[0078] In step S10, the control device 34 determines whether the recovery of the first power generation device 14a has been completed. In other words, the control device 34 determines whether the first engine 11a has been restarted. If it is determined that the recovery of the first power generation device 14a has not been completed (NO in step S10), the process of step S10 is repeated. If it is determined that the recovery of the first power generation device 14a has been completed (YES in step S10), the process proceeds to step S11.

[0079] In step S11, the control device 34 short-circuits the outputs of the first generator 13a and the second generator 13b (see FIG. 10). FIG. 11 is a diagram showing a state in which the output of the first generator 13a is short-circuited. As shown in FIG. 11, when the output of the first generator 13a is short-circuited, each of the upper arm switching elements 17a to 17c is turned on (connected). The phases of the U-phase voltage, V-phase voltage, and W-phase voltage of the first generator 13a are all shifted by 120 degrees. By short-circuiting the output of the first generator 13a, the U-phase voltage, V-phase voltage, and W-phase voltage cancel each other out, and the output voltage of the first generator 13a can be set to zero.

[0080] When the output of the first generator 13a is short-circuited, each of the switching elements 19a to 19c of the lower arm may be turned on (connected state). When each of the switching elements 19a to 19c of the lower arm is turned on (connected state), the output voltage of the first generator 13a can be set to zero.

[0081] The output of the second power generator 14b can be short-circuited by controlling the second power generator 14b in the same manner as the first power generator 14a. After that, the process proceeds to step S12.

[0082] In step S12, the control device 34 controls the connection device 20a to disconnect the first power supply circuit 12a from the second power supply circuit 12b, and controls the connection device 20b to disconnect the third power supply circuit 12c from the fourth power supply circuit 12d. As shown in FIG. 10, in this case, the connection devices 20a and 20b can be disconnected while suppressing the current flowing through the connection devices 20a and 20b. In this case, arc generation from the connection devices 20a and 20b during disconnection can be suppressed. This allows the capacity of the contactors of the connection devices 20a and 20b to be relatively small, thereby allowing the connection devices 20a and 20b to be made smaller and lighter. Then, the process proceeds to step S13.

[0083] In step S13, the control device 34 releases the short circuit between the outputs of the first generator 13a and the second generator 13b. This causes the power supply system 10 to return to normal control. After this, the processing in FIG. 6 is completed.

[0084] The above-described control method for the power supply system 10 has been described using an example in which the first power generation device 14a is restored when the first engine 11a misfires, but similar control can also be performed when the second engine 11b misfires. Furthermore, the above-described control method for the power supply system 10 has been described using an example in which control is performed while the mobile object 44 is ascending, but similar control can also be performed while the mobile object 44 is taking off (hovering), cruising, descending, and landing. Furthermore, after determining that a malfunction has occurred in the supply of power from the first power generation device 14a to the first power supply circuit 12a (YES in step S1) and performing the processes of steps S2 and S3, if it can be determined that the malfunction is a misfire in the first engine 11a, the process may proceed to the processes of steps S4 and S5.

[0085] According to this embodiment, the connection circuit 18a includes a reactor 23a connected in series to the connection device 20a. In this case, when the first connection control is executed on the connection device 20a, a back electromotive force is generated in the reactor 23a, and the peak value of the inrush current flowing through the first power supply circuit 12a or the second power supply circuit 12b is kept low. This reduces damage to electronic devices (e.g., the first load device 16a or the second load device 16b) provided on the first power supply circuit 12a or the second power supply circuit 12b. Furthermore, when a problem occurs in the supply of power from the first power generator 14a to the first power supply circuit 12a, the first connection control is executed on the connection device 20a, so that power can be supplied from the second power supply circuit 12b to the first load device 16a via the connection circuit 18a and the first power supply circuit 12a. Furthermore, since the first connection control is performed while the first power supply circuit 12a and the connection circuit 18a are disconnected from the first power generator 14a by the interrupter 22a, it is possible to prevent an inrush current from flowing to the first power generator 14a. This makes it possible to prevent the first power generator 14a from being damaged by an inrush current. Furthermore, for example, if a malfunction in the power supply from the first power generator 14a to the first power supply circuit 12a is a short circuit, it is possible to prevent further malfunctions in the power supply system 10, such as the second power generator 14b. This makes it possible to provide an improved power supply system 10, a mobile object 44, and a control method for the power supply system 10.

[0086] The power supply system 10 according to this embodiment is not limited to the above-described configuration. For example, the third power supply circuit 12c, the fourth power supply circuit 12d, and the connection circuit 18b may be omitted from the power supply system 10. In this case, the third load device 16c and the like provided on the third power supply circuit 12c and the fourth load device 16d and the like provided on the fourth power supply circuit 12d are also omitted.

[0087] The following additional notes are further disclosed regarding the above embodiment.

[0088] (Appendix 1) The power supply system (10) of the present disclosure includes a first power supply circuit (12a) that supplies DC power output from a first power generation device (14a) to a first load device (16a), a second power supply circuit (12b) that supplies DC power output from a second power generation device (14b) to a second load device (16b), a connection circuit (18a) provided with a connection device (20a) that can connect the first power supply circuit and the second power supply circuit to each other, and a connection device (20a) that connects the first power supply circuit and the second power supply circuit to each other via the connection circuit. and a disconnecting device (22a) capable of disconnecting the first power generation device from the first power supply circuit and the connection circuit, wherein the connection circuit is provided with a reactor (23a) connected in series to the connection device, and when a problem occurs in the supply of power from the first power generation device to the first power supply circuit, the control device executes the connection control on the connection device with the first power supply circuit and the connection circuit disconnected from the first power generation device by the disconnecting device.

[0089] According to this configuration, the connection circuit includes a reactor connected in series to the connection device. In this case, when connection control is executed on the connection device, a back electromotive force is generated in the reactor, thereby keeping the peak value of the inrush current flowing through the first power supply circuit or the second power supply circuit low. This makes it possible to prevent damage to electronic devices (e.g., the first load device or the second load device) provided in the first power supply circuit or the second power supply circuit. Furthermore, when a problem occurs in the supply of power from the first power generation device to the first power supply circuit, by executing connection control on the connection device, power can be supplied from the second power supply circuit to the first load device via the connection circuit and the first power supply circuit. Furthermore, since connection control is executed with the first power supply circuit and the connection circuit disconnected from the first power generation device by the disconnection device, it is possible to prevent the inrush current from flowing to the first power generation device. This makes it possible to prevent the first power generation device from being damaged by the inrush current. Furthermore, for example, if a failure in the power supply from the first power generating device to the first power supply circuit is a short circuit, further failures in the power supply system, such as the second power generating device, can be prevented, thereby providing a better power supply system.

[0090] (Appendix 2) In the power supply system described in Appendix 1, the control device may perform the connection control on the connection device, and then perform recovery control on the first power generation device to supply power from the second power supply circuit to the first power generation device by canceling the cutoff by the cutoff device, thereby restoring the first power generation device.

[0091] With this configuration, the first power generating device can be restored by the power supplied from the second power supply circuit.

[0092] (Appendix 3) In the power supply system described in Appendix 2, when the first power generation device is restored by the restoration control, the control device may control the connection device to disconnect the first power supply circuit from the second power supply circuit.

[0093] With this configuration, the first power supply circuit and the second power supply circuit can be disconnected after the first power generator is restored, thereby preventing an overcurrent from flowing in the other power supply circuit if an overcurrent occurs in either the first power supply circuit or the second power supply circuit.

[0094] (Appendix 4) In the power supply system described in Supplementary Note 3, the first power generation device includes a first generator (13a) that outputs three-phase AC power and a first power conversion device (15a) that converts the three-phase AC power output from the first generator into DC power, and the second power generation device includes a second generator (13b) that outputs three-phase AC power and a second power conversion device (15b) that converts the three-phase AC power output from the second generator into DC power, and when the first power generation device is restored by the restoration control, the control device may control the connection device to disconnect the first power supply circuit from the second power supply circuit while short-circuiting the outputs of the first generator and the second generator.

[0095] With this configuration, the connection device can disconnect the first power supply circuit from the second power supply circuit while suppressing the output voltages of the first and second power generators. In this case, arcing at the connection device can be prevented during disconnection, which allows the connection device to be made smaller and lighter.

[0096] (Appendix 5) The power supply system according to any one of Supplementary Notes 2 to 4 may further include a first power storage device (24a) connected in parallel with the first power generation device to the first power supply circuit, and a second power storage device (24b) connected in parallel with the second power generation device to the second power supply circuit, and the control device may cancel the disconnection by the disconnection device and execute the return control after a difference between an output voltage of the first power storage device and an output voltage of the second power storage device becomes equal to or less than a predetermined voltage threshold while executing the connection control on the connection device.

[0097] With this configuration, when the supply of power from the first power generating device to the first power supply circuit is cut off, the power supplied from the second power supply circuit to the first power supply circuit via the connection circuit can be supplied preferentially to the first load device or the first power storage device, thereby preventing a shortage of power supplied to the first load device due to a drop in the output voltage (SOC) of the first power storage device.

[0098] (Appendix 6) A moving object (44) of the present disclosure includes the power supply system described in any one of Supplementary Notes 1 to 5.

[0099] With this configuration, a better moving body can be obtained.

[0100] (Appendix 7) The control method for a power supply system disclosed herein is a control method for a power supply system comprising: a first power supply circuit that supplies DC power output from a first power generation device to a first load device; a second power supply circuit that supplies DC power output from a second power generation device to a second load device; a connection circuit equipped with a connection device that can connect the first power supply circuit and the second power supply circuit to each other; and a shutoff device that can disconnect the first power generation device from the first power supply circuit and the connection circuit, wherein the connection circuit is equipped with a reactor connected in series to the connection device, and when a malfunction occurs in the supply of power from the first power generation device to the first power supply circuit, the first power supply circuit and the connection circuit are disconnected from the first power generation device by the shutoff device, and connection control is performed on the connection device to connect the first power supply circuit and the second power supply circuit to each other via the connection circuit.

[0101] This method provides a better method for controlling the power supply system.

[0102] Although the present disclosure has been described in detail, the present disclosure is not limited to the individual embodiments described above. Various additions, substitutions, modifications, partial deletions, etc. are possible in these embodiments without departing from the gist of the present disclosure or the spirit of the present disclosure derived from the content of the claims and their equivalents. These embodiments can also be implemented in combination. For example, in the above-described embodiments, the order of each operation and the order of each process are shown as examples and are not limited to these. The same applies when numerical values ​​or mathematical expressions are used in the description of the above-described embodiments. [Explanation of symbols]

[0103] 10... Power supply system 12a... First power supply circuit 12b...Second power supply circuit 12c...Third power supply circuit 12d...Fourth power supply circuit 13a...First generator 13b... Second generator 14a... First generator 14b... Second power generating device 15a... First power conversion device 15b... Second power conversion device 16a... First load device 16b...Second load device 16c...Third load device 16d...Fourth load device 18a, 18b...Connection circuit 20a, 20b...connection device 21...smoothing capacitor 22a to 22d, 26a to 26d...Shut-off device 23a, 23b... reactor 24a... first power storage device 24b...Second power storage device 24c...Third power storage device 24d...Fourth power storage device 34...Control device 44...Mobile

Claims

1. a first power supply circuit that supplies DC power output from the first power generation device to a first load device; a second power supply circuit that supplies DC power output from the second power generation device to a second load device; a connection circuit including a connection device that can connect the first power supply circuit and the second power supply circuit to each other; a control device that can execute connection control on the connection device to connect the first power supply circuit and the second power supply circuit to each other via the connection circuit; a disconnection device that can disconnect the first power generation device from the first power supply circuit and the connection circuit; Equipped with the connection circuit includes a reactor connected in series to the connection device; When a malfunction occurs in the supply of power from the first power generation device to the first power supply circuit, the control device performs the connection control on the connection device while the first power supply circuit and the connection circuit are disconnected from the first power generation device by the disconnection device.

2. 2. The power supply system according to claim 1, The control device performs the connection control on the connection device, and then cancels the shutdown by the shutdown device, thereby supplying power from the second power supply circuit to the first power generation device and performing recovery control on the first power generation device to restore the first power generation device.

3. 3. The power supply system according to claim 2, When the first power generating unit is restored by the restoration control, the control unit controls the connection device to disconnect the first power supply circuit from the second power supply circuit.

4. 4. The power supply system according to claim 3, the first power generation device includes a first generator that outputs three-phase AC power, and a first power conversion device that converts the three-phase AC power output from the first generator into DC power, the second power generation device includes a second generator that outputs three-phase AC power, and a second power conversion device that converts the three-phase AC power output from the second generator into DC power, When the first power generation unit is restored by the restoration control, the control unit controls the connection device to disconnect the first power supply circuit from the second power supply circuit while short-circuiting the outputs of the first generator and the second generator.

5. 3. The power supply system according to claim 2, a first power storage device connected in parallel with the first power generation device to the first power supply circuit; a second power storage device connected in parallel to the second power generation device to the second power supply circuit; Furthermore, A power supply system in which, while the control device is executing the connection control on the connection device, after the difference between the output voltage of the first storage device and the output voltage of the second storage device becomes equal to or less than a predetermined voltage threshold, the control device cancels the disconnection by the disconnection device and executes the recovery control.

6. A mobile object comprising the power supply system according to any one of claims 1 to 5.

7. a first power supply circuit that supplies DC power output from the first power generation device to a first load device; a second power supply circuit that supplies DC power output from the second power generation device to a second load device; a connection circuit including a connection device that can connect the first power supply circuit and the second power supply circuit to each other; a disconnection device that can disconnect the first power generation device from the first power supply circuit and the connection circuit; A control method for a power supply system, comprising: the connection circuit includes a reactor connected in series to the connection device, a control method for a power supply system, wherein, when a problem occurs in the supply of power from the first power generation device to the first power supply circuit, the first power supply circuit and the connection circuit are disconnected from the first power generation device by the disconnection device, and connection control is performed on the connection device to connect the first power supply circuit and the second power supply circuit to each other via the connection circuit.

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