Alternator Current Sensor for Precise Load Balancing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing alternator systems face challenges in accurately managing power distribution due to inaccuracies in estimating the output current, which can lead to inefficient load balancing and power management without direct monitoring capabilities.
Innovation Solution
Incorporating a current sensor within the alternator to measure and transmit the output current level to an engine control unit (ECU) via a communication port, allowing for precise current measurement and indication, thereby enhancing power management accuracy.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If a model is used to estimate the output current of the alternator, then the system complexity is reduced, but the measurement precision deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical/model-based current estimation approach with an optical/electromagnetic sensing approach. A current sensor (such as a Hall effect sensor or current transformer) directly measures the output current of the alternator, substituting the indirect mathematical modeling method with a direct physical measurement method, thereby achieving both accuracy and real-time monitoring capability
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a current sensor as an intermediary device between the alternator output and the control system. This sensor acts as a mediator that directly detects the current flowing through the alternator output terminal and transmits the measurement signal to the control unit, enabling precise current monitoring without requiring complex calculation models
2Measurement precision
If direct current monitoring is implemented in the alternator, then the measurement precision improves, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a current sensor as an intermediary device between the alternator output and the control system. This sensor acts as a mediator that directly detects the current flowing through the alternator output terminal and transmits the measurement signal to the control unit, enabling precise current monitoring without requiring complex calculation models
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the measurement parameter from indirect estimation (using voltage and load calculations) to direct current measurement. By measuring the actual current output parameter directly through a current sensor, the system achieves accurate real-time current information while maintaining relatively simple implementation through modern sensor technology
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 provides accurate current measurement and transmission, enabling the ECU to perform effective load balancing and power management, improving the alternator's ability to support additional loads and maintain stable voltage levels.
Implementation Method 1
a current sensor configured to measure a current level of at least a portion of the current being output via the output port to the one or more loads
Implementation Method 2
a rectifier for converting an alternating current generated by the alternator to the direct current for powering the one or more loads
Data Source
AI summary
An alternator is described that is configured to provide a current for powering one or more loads. The alternator includes an output port configured to output the current for powering the one or more loads, and one or more current sensors configured to measure a current level of at least a portion of the current being output via the output port to the one or more loads. The alternator further includes one or more communication ports configured to transmit information based on the current level measured by the one or more current sensors.