Vehicle Battery Current Threshold Control for Degradation Limiting
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Solution Overview
Problem
Electrically powered vehicles face battery performance variations due to operating conditions, leading to temporary or permanent degradation, which existing technologies fail to effectively address.
Innovation Solution
A system and method that includes a sensor to measure battery output current and a controller that dynamically adjusts the maximum current threshold based on predefined time periods and thresholds to prevent battery degradation, allowing for adaptive power management.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Power
If the battery operates at high current for extended periods, then power output is improved, but battery degradation increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic adjustment of the maximum current threshold based on cumulative operating time. The controller continuously monitors battery operation and adjusts the current threshold in real-time, transitioning from a static threshold approach to a dynamic one that adapts to battery wear, thereby resolving the contradiction between maintaining power output and preventing degradation
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the parameter of maximum current threshold based on battery operating conditions. By modifying this critical parameter according to cumulative time and current levels, the system optimizes the balance between power delivery and battery protection, addressing the contradiction between power output and degradation prevention
2Duration of action of stationary object
If the maximum current threshold is reduced to prevent degradation, then battery life is extended, but power output capability decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements periodic reassessment of the maximum current threshold based on cumulative operating time intervals. The controller evaluates battery usage in time-based periods and adjusts thresholds periodically, allowing the battery to operate at higher currents during early life while progressively reducing thresholds as the battery ages, thus balancing power output capability with battery life extension
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies preliminary protective action by reducing the maximum current threshold before significant degradation occurs. By proactively adjusting thresholds based on cumulative time and current exposure, the system prevents irreversible damage while maintaining acceptable power output, resolving the contradiction between extending battery life and preserving power capability
3Device complexity
If a static current threshold is used, then control simplicity is maintained, but adaptability to varying operating conditions deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements feedback control by continuously monitoring battery current and cumulative operating time, then using this information to dynamically adjust the maximum current threshold. The controller receives feedback from the battery management system and adapts the threshold accordingly, providing automated adaptation to varying operating conditions while maintaining relatively simple control architecture
Solution Approach 2:
The battery management system performs self-service by automatically adjusting its own current thresholds based on monitored operating conditions. The controller uses internal sensors and algorithms to autonomously determine appropriate threshold levels without requiring external intervention, achieving adaptability while keeping the control system self-contained and relatively simple
Data Source
AI summary
A vehicle includes a controller that, during a predefined period of time and responsive to an average current of the battery exceeding a first current threshold for a first period of time, reduces a maximum current threshold of the battery by a first amount, and during the predefined period of time and responsive to the average current exceeding a second current threshold for a second period of time, further reduces the maximum current threshold by a second amount.