Bi-Directional DC/DC Charging for Cross-Compatible Battery Modules
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Custom battery solutions for mobile and aircraft systems are expensive and have long lead times due to customization requirements, and existing charging systems are inefficient and costly, lacking advanced power management and health monitoring capabilities.
Innovation Solution
A bi-directional DC/DC converter-based mobile charging system that enables efficient energy transfer, power regeneration, and advanced battery health monitoring, allowing for cross-compatible battery modules and airworthiness standard compliance, with a control system that manages charging and discharging operations and monitors battery health.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If custom battery solutions are implemented for mobile and aircraft systems, then battery performance and reliability are improved, but manufacturing cost and lead time increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements universal battery modules with standardized interfaces and configurations that can be used across multiple applications including mobile systems and aircraft systems. This multi-functionality allows the same battery module design to serve different purposes, eliminating the need for separate custom solutions for each application and thereby reducing manufacturing costs and lead times while maintaining reliability requirements
2Use of energy by moving object
If traditional charging systems are used, then system simplicity is maintained, but energy efficiency and power management capability deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple functions including DC/DC conversion, battery health monitoring, and power management into an integrated charging system. This merging of previously separate components into a unified system improves energy efficiency through coordinated control while managing complexity through integration rather than proliferation of separate systems
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements advanced battery health monitoring with feedback control mechanisms that continuously assess battery state and adjust charging parameters accordingly. This feedback capability optimizes energy efficiency by preventing overcharging and adjusting charge rates based on real-time battery conditions, while the automated control reduces the operational complexity burden
3Reliability
If advanced battery health monitoring is implemented, then battery reliability and safety are improved, but system complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements battery health monitoring capabilities that are integrated directly into the battery modules themselves, enabling them to self-assess their state including charge level, temperature, and health metrics. This self-service approach reduces the need for external monitoring equipment and simplifies the overall system architecture while maintaining advanced monitoring functionality for reliability assurance
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 reduces energy usage and costs, facilitates efficient power transfer, and ensures battery health monitoring, enabling timely replacement of non-airworthy modules, thus improving the efficiency and reliability of battery management in mobile and aircraft systems.
Implementation Method 1
a bi-directional direct current ('DC')/DC converter in electrical communication with the first battery array
Data Source
AI summary
A charging system may comprise: a first battery array; a bi-directional direct current (DC)/DC converter in electrical communication with the first battery array; and a charging interface in electrical communication with the bi-directional DC/DC converter, the charging interface configured to electrically couple to a second battery array of an electric vehicle.