B6 Inverter Starter-Generator for Off-Road Vehicles
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Solution Overview
Problem
Off-road vehicles face inefficiencies in their starter/generator systems due to high power losses in thyristor circuits, limiting electrical power output and requiring additional generators or larger batteries to meet increasing electrical demands.
Innovation Solution
Implementing a B6 inverter with MOSFETs allows the starter/generator to operate in 4-quadrant mode, supporting starting processes and increasing power output, while also improving heat transfer and reducing losses through structural design and materials, enabling smaller, more efficient components.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of energy
If a thyristor circuit is used in the generator, then the system structure is simple and reliable, but the efficiency losses are high and power output is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the operating parameters of the electric machine by using a B6 inverter with MOSFETs instead of a thyristor circuit, enabling operation in all four quadrants (positive/negative speed and torque) and achieving significantly lower efficiency losses while maintaining system reliability
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical/thyristor-based rectification system with an electronic B6 inverter system using MOSFETs, which provides superior efficiency and control capabilities while reducing energy losses in the electrical system
2Power
If additional generators are installed to increase electrical power, then the power output increases, but the device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes the generator multi-functional by enabling it to operate as both a generator and a motor through the B6 inverter circuit, allowing it to support the starting process and provide additional electrical power without requiring additional generator components
Solution Approach 2:
The patent combines the starting motor function and generator function into a single integrated system, where the B6 inverter enables the same electric machine to perform both functions, reducing overall system complexity while increasing electrical power capability
3Power
If the generator is designed for higher output voltage, then the electrical power increases, but the heat dissipation requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediate section with high thermal conductivity material between the exciter coils and housing, acting as a thermal mediator that efficiently transfers heat away from the exciter coils, enabling higher output voltages without excessive temperature rise
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses composite material strategies by combining materials with different thermal conductivity properties in the heat transfer path, particularly using high thermal conductivity material in the intermediate section to optimize heat dissipation while maintaining structural integrity
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 significantly increases available electrical power, reduces component size and cost, and enhances quietness and durability by improving efficiency and heat dissipation, allowing for a more compact and cost-effective starter/generator system.
Implementation Method 1
a B6 inverter with MOSFETs is used, as a result of which the electric machine previously used solely as a generator can be used as a motor
Implementation Method 2
an intermediate section with high thermal conductivity is arranged between the exciter coils and the housing
Data Source
AI summary
A vehicle, e.g., an off-road vehicle, may include an internal combustion engine, a starter motor coupled to the engine via a multi-stage transmission during a starting process, a further electric machine coupled to a crankshaft of the engine, and a converter arranged to supply at least one energy storage unit, e.g., a battery. The converter may be configured as a 4-quadrant regulator having a B6 circuit of MOSFETs.