Contactless Battery Module Communication via Transmission Line Couplers
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing communication systems for battery modules in extreme environments, such as electric and hybrid vehicles, face challenges in transmitting diagnostic information effectively due to high voltage and noise, preventing reliable contactless communication between battery modules and host modules.
Innovation Solution
A contactless communication system utilizing an elongated transmission line with strategically placed couplers and a transmitter/receiver configuration, enabling near-field communication through radio frequency signals, allowing diagnostic information to be transmitted and received despite high voltage and noise conditions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If contactless communication is implemented between battery modules and host modules, then diagnostic information can be transmitted without electrical contact, but high voltage and noise in the environment prevent reliable communication
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a transmission line as an intermediary medium that carries diagnostic information between the battery module and host module. The transmission line includes a signal line and reference line that guide the communication signal through the noisy environment, isolating the sensitive communication from direct exposure to high voltage and electromagnetic interference while maintaining reliable data transmission.
2Ease of operation
If traditional wired communication is used, then electrical contact provides stable signal transmission, but it requires physical contact points that are vulnerable to voltage and noise
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the traditional mechanical electrical contact system with a field-based contactless communication system. Instead of requiring physical electrical contacts between components, the system uses electromagnetic fields for signal transmission, eliminating the need for exposed contact points while maintaining communication functionality and improving safety in high voltage environments.
3Reliability
If contactless communication is implemented, then safety is improved by eliminating electrical contact, but signal transmission becomes more difficult in noisy environments
Solution Approach 1:
The transmission line serves as a protective intermediary that shields the communication signal from environmental interference. By routing the signal through this dedicated transmission path with controlled impedance and reference planes, the system maintains signal integrity while preserving the safety benefits of contactless communication.
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
Enables reliable and efficient communication of diagnostic information between battery modules and host modules in high voltage, noisy environments, facilitating effective monitoring and control of battery operations.
Implementation Method 1
The transmitter coupler aligns to contactlessly couple with a respective one of the transmission line couplers to provide a contactless communication link between the transmitter and the elongated transmission line
Data Source
AI summary
One example includes a system is comprised of an elongated transmission line and as module. The elongated transmission line includes an arrangement of transmission line couplers distributed along its length at spaced apart locations. The module has an outer surface and is comprised of a transmitter, and a transmitter coupler. The transmitter transmits a radio frequency signal. The transmitter coupler is on the outer surface of the module, electrically connects with the transmitter, and aligns to couple with a respective one of the transmission line couplers to provide a contactless communication link between the transmitter and the elongated transmission line.