Auxiliary Power Supply Voltage Control for Vehicle Fuel Efficiency
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
The inefficiency of electricity generation in vehicles, where only 10-25% of fuel energy is converted to electricity, and the need for a more environmentally friendly power source to reduce the burden on batteries and engines.
Innovation Solution
An apparatus with an auxiliary electric power unit, converter, and control unit that supplements the vehicle's power system by adjusting output voltage based on the alternator's running state, using an auxiliary electric power storage medium and passive power source, such as photovoltaic panels, to provide environmentally friendly energy.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Use of energy by moving object
If electricity is generated by the alternator powered by the propulsion engine, then the vehicle's electric power system can be supplied, but the fuel consumption increases and conversion efficiency is low (10-25%)
Solution Approach 1:
The auxiliary electric power unit is activated before the main propulsion engine to pre-charge the battery and establish an alternative power source. This preliminary action reduces the immediate burden on the alternator and engine, allowing the system to operate more efficiently from the start rather than relying solely on fuel-intensive alternator generation.
Solution Approach 2:
The auxiliary electric power unit with battery storage acts as an intermediary between the propulsion engine and the vehicle's electric loads. It buffers the power demand, allowing the engine to operate at optimal efficiency points while the auxiliary unit handles peak or base load requirements, thereby reducing overall fuel consumption.
2Weight of stationary object
If the alternator supplies all power to the vehicle, then the battery can remain small, but the engine burden and fuel consumption increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically switches between power sources based on real-time conditions. The control unit monitors engine operation, battery charge state, and power demand to optimally allocate loads between the alternator and auxiliary electric power unit. This dynamic management allows for a smaller battery while reducing fuel consumption through intelligent power source selection.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes operational parameters by introducing a second electric power source with different characteristics. The auxiliary unit can operate independently or in parallel with the alternator, changing the power distribution parameters to optimize fuel efficiency while maintaining adequate battery capacity for peak demands.
3Duration of action of moving object
If the battery supplies power during engine-off periods, then comfort systems can operate, but the battery has limited endurance and may require engine startup
Solution Approach 1:
The auxiliary electric power unit merges with the existing battery to create a combined energy storage system. This merged system provides increased total capacity and extended endurance for engine-off operations, allowing comfort systems to run longer without requiring the main engine to start, thereby reducing noise and exhaust emissions.
Solution Approach 2:
The auxiliary electric power unit is pre-charged during periods when the engine is running and alternator is generating excess power. This preliminary charging action builds energy reserves that can be drawn upon during engine-off periods, extending battery endurance and avoiding the need for frequent engine startups.
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
Reduces the burden on batteries and engines by optimizing power generation and storage, lowering fuel consumption, and providing a cleaner energy source.
Implementation Method 1
a converter for converting electricity provided by the auxiliary electric power unit into electricity having an output voltage
Implementation Method 2
detect a running state of an alternator of the vehicle based on a measurement of a signal on the sense line measured by the measurement device
Data Source
AI summary
An apparatus for providing power to a vehicle's electric power system comprises a converter (602) for converting electric input electricity having an input voltage into output electricity having an output voltage. A sense line (612) is provided for electrically connecting a control unit (611) to the vehicle's electric power system. A power line (613) is for connecting an output of the converter (602) in parallel to the vehicle's electric power system. The control unit (611) is configured to detect a running state of an alternator (201) of the vehicle based on a measurement of a signal on the sense line (612) and control the converter (602) to set the output voltage in dependence on the detected running state.