Vehicle AC Generator Controller Voltage Detection Circuit
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional AC generator controllers for vehicles require complex and costly IC circuits to detect battery voltage malfunctions and increased resistance in wiring, leading to delayed detection of malfunctions and potential battery damage.
Innovation Solution
A simplified controller circuit with a battery voltage detecting circuit and an output voltage detecting circuit, where the output terminal voltage is set higher than the battery voltage, allowing for early detection of malfunctions and generation of a diagnosis alarm signal when predetermined voltage thresholds are exceeded.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If many comparators are used to detect battery voltage decrease, then detection accuracy is improved, but device complexity and IC chip area increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple voltage detection functions into a single comparator by merging the battery voltage detection and generator output voltage detection circuits. The comparator simultaneously compares both voltages against a reference voltage, eliminating the need for separate comparators and reducing circuit complexity while maintaining detection accuracy.
Solution Approach 2:
The single comparator is designed to perform multiple functions: it detects battery voltage levels, detects generator output voltage levels, and identifies malfunction conditions (such as charging wire disconnection). This multi-functional approach reduces the number of components needed while achieving comprehensive voltage monitoring.
2Loss of time
If battery voltage threshold is set high, then early malfunction detection is achieved, but false alarms increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system continuously monitors both battery voltage and generator output voltage and provides feedback to the comparator. When a malfunction is detected (such as charging wire disconnection), the system generates an alarm signal that can trigger protective actions. The continuous feedback mechanism allows for early detection while maintaining reliability through consistent monitoring of both voltage parameters.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a reference voltage as an intermediary threshold value that mediates between the battery voltage and generator output voltage comparisons. This reference voltage serves as a stable benchmark that enables early malfunction detection without causing false alarms, as it provides a consistent reference point for the comparator to evaluate both voltage sources.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This solution enables early detection of wiring resistance increases and malfunction alerts, reducing IC chip area and cost, preventing battery overcharge damage by promptly informing drivers of generator malfunctions.
Implementation Method 1
a battery voltage detecting circuit for detecting a charging voltage of the battery
Implementation Method 2
an output voltage detecting circuit for detecting the output terminal voltage of the AC generator
Data Source
AI summary
A controller of a generator for a vehicle in the invention includes a battery voltage detecting circuit and an output terminal voltage detecting circuit of an AC generator. A value of a detected voltage of the output terminal voltage of the AC generator is set to be higher than a value of a detected voltage of the battery voltage. A diagnosis alarm signal is outputted when the detected voltage of the battery voltage is lower than the set value while the detected voltage of the output terminal is higher than the set value.