Autonomous Driving Power Conversion with Adaptive LDC Output Control

Resolve Bottlenecks,
Find Innovative Solutions
Generate Solutions

Solution Overview

Problem

Existing power conversion systems for autonomous driving continuously supply power to autonomous driving systems even when unnecessary, leading to reduced fuel efficiency and risk of battery discharge due to dark currents.

Innovation Solution

A power conversion system that includes a first battery, a second battery, a low-voltage DC-DC converter (LDC), and an autonomous driving controller, where the LDC determines its output based on control parameters including the load amount of the autonomous driving load and the state of charging of both batteries, optimizing power distribution and reducing unnecessary power consumption.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If the main battery continuously supplies power to autonomous driving loads through the LDC, then the autonomous driving system is always powered, but the vehicle fuel efficiency deteriorates and battery discharge risk increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveautonomous driving system power supply reliabilityVSAvoidvehicle fuel efficiency
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSLoss of energy

Solution Approach 1:

The LDC output is dynamically adjusted based on real-time detection of autonomous driving load requirements and first battery state of charge. The system transitions from continuous fixed output to variable output that adapts to actual needs, preventing unnecessary power consumption while ensuring reliable power supply when required.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The control device receives feedback signals from the first battery management device regarding state of charge and from load detection regarding autonomous driving requirements. This feedback loop enables the LDC to adjust its output accordingly, stopping power supply when autonomous driving is not active and reducing discharge risk while maintaining fuel efficiency.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

2Use of energy by moving object

If the LDC continuously converts and supplies voltage to autonomous driving loads, then power availability is maintained, but battery lifespan and efficiency deteriorate

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvepower supply availabilityVSAvoidbattery lifespan
Core Design Contradiction:
Use of energy by moving objectVSDuration of action of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

Instead of continuous full-power operation, the LDC applies partial action by adjusting its output based on actual load requirements. The control device determines appropriate output levels by considering both autonomous driving load demands and first battery state of charge, avoiding excessive power conversion and supply that would degrade battery lifespan.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #16Partial or excessive action

Solution Approach 2:

The LDC output parameter is changed dynamically based on operating conditions. The control device modifies voltage conversion and power supply parameters according to real-time battery state and load requirements, optimizing the balance between power availability and battery preservation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

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

The system improves the efficiency and lifespan of batteries and enhances fuel efficiency of vehicles by optimizing power distribution based on the state of charging and load requirements, thereby minimizing unnecessary power consumption and reducing the risk of battery discharge.

Implementation Method 1

an LDC configured to convert a magnitude of a voltage, output the converted voltage, and charge the first battery with an output of the LDC

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElectrical Energy Conversion: Electromagnetic Induction

Data Source

PatentUS12304350B2Power conversion system for autonomous driving and method for controlling same
Publication Date: 2025.05.20 HYUNDAI MOTOR CO LTD
  • US12304350B2 patent drawing
  • US12304350B2 patent drawing
  • US12304350B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A power conversion system for autonomous driving and a method for controlling the same, includes a first battery and a second battery; an LDC configured to convert the magnitude of a voltage, output the voltage, and charge the first battery with an output of the LDC; an autonomous driving load electrically connected to the LDC and the first battery and configured to be provided with a power voltage from the LDC or the first battery; and an autonomous driving controller electrically connected to the LDC, the first battery, and the second battery and configured to be provided with a power voltage from one of the LDC, the first battery, or the second battery, wherein the LDC is configured to determine the output of the LDC based on control parameters including the load amount of the autonomous driving load and the state of charging of the first battery and the state of charging of the second battery.