Auxiliary Battery Charging System for Marine Outboard Engines
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing marine outboard engine systems do not efficiently charge auxiliary batteries while in operation, leading to reduced primary battery charging efficiency when an auxiliary charger is used, as it diverts electrical power intended for the primary battery.
Innovation Solution
A marine outboard engine system with an engine management module that includes a primary charger and an auxiliary charger, connected via a vehicle bus for data exchange, which adjusts the auxiliary charger's output based on input voltage and primary battery state to optimize charging of both primary and auxiliary batteries, using a DC/DC converter and open-loop liquid cooling for thermal management.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If an auxiliary charger is provided to charge auxiliary batteries during operation, then auxiliary batteries can be recharged while on the watercraft, but the primary battery charging efficiency deteriorates because electrical power is diverted from the primary battery charger
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically adjusts the auxiliary charger's output power based on real-time monitoring of primary battery charge level and alternator power generation. When the primary battery charge level is low, the auxiliary charger reduces or suspends its power output to prioritize primary battery recharging. When the primary battery is sufficiently charged, the auxiliary charger increases power output to efficiently recharge auxiliary batteries, thereby optimizing the distribution of limited electrical power between the two charging functions.
Solution Approach 2:
The control unit continuously monitors the charge level of the primary battery and receives feedback about the alternator's power generation capacity. Based on this feedback, the control unit dynamically adjusts the auxiliary charger's operation to ensure that primary battery charging requirements are met while still providing auxiliary battery charging when possible, thus resolving the power diversion conflict.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the auxiliary charger diverts electrical power from the primary battery charger, then auxiliary batteries can be charged during operation, but the primary battery may not be recharged effectively
Solution Approach 1:
The system transitions between different operational modes dynamically: when primary battery charge level is below a threshold, the auxiliary charger operates in reduced-power mode or suspends operation to ensure primary battery recharging; when primary battery charge level is sufficient, the auxiliary charger operates at full capacity to charge auxiliary batteries, thus adapting power distribution to maintain primary battery reliability while enabling auxiliary charging versatility.
Solution Approach 2:
The control unit automatically manages power allocation between primary and auxiliary charging based on real-time battery status without requiring manual intervention. The system self-adjusts the auxiliary charger's power output to prioritize primary battery charging when needed, ensuring primary battery reliability is maintained while still providing auxiliary charging capability when conditions permit.
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 effectively charges auxiliary batteries during operation while maintaining primary battery charging efficiency by dynamically adjusting the auxiliary charger's output based on real-time data, ensuring optimal power distribution and extended battery life.
Implementation Method 1
An alternator is operatively connected to the engine to generate electrical power
Implementation Method 2
an open-loop cooling system in thermal communication with the engine and the auxiliary charger
Implementation Method 3
open-loop liquid cooling for thermal management
Data Source
AI summary
A marine outboard engine has an engine, a cowling, an alternator, and a controller electrically connected to the alternator. A primary charger is electrically connected to the alternator and is adapted to charge a primary energy storage device. A starter motor is selectively operatively connected to the engine and is adapted to be electrically connected to the primary energy storage device. An auxiliary charger is electrically connected to the alternator and is adapted to charge at least one auxiliary battery adapted to power an auxiliary device. The controller, the primary charger and the auxiliary charger are disposed inside the cowling. A vehicle bus connects the auxiliary charger with the controller to provide data from the controller to the auxiliary charger. A watercraft having the marine outboard engine and an auxiliary device is also disclosed.