Capacitor Discharge via Integrated Short-Circuit Switch
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing motor vehicles with capacitor devices for electric drive machines require complex and unsafe external discharge processes using separate resistors, which are inefficient and pose safety risks, especially in emergency situations.
Innovation Solution
A motor vehicle capacitor device with a controllable short-circuiting switch, integrated within the vehicle, allows for safe and rapid discharge without external resistors, using a short-circuit-proof design that dissipates thermal energy through the vehicle's body structure, and can be actuated by a controller or crash sensors.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If an external discharge resistor is used to discharge the capacitor device, then the capacitor can be discharged, but the system becomes complex and requires external cooling devices
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the discharge function directly into the capacitor device by integrating a short-circuiting switch in parallel with the capacitor terminals. This eliminates the need for external discharge resistors and cooling devices, simplifying the system while maintaining safe discharge capability through the vehicle's body structure heat dissipation.
Solution Approach 2:
The capacitor device is designed to discharge itself through the integrated short-circuiting switch, using the vehicle's body structure as a heat sink. This self-service approach eliminates external discharge equipment and reduces system complexity while ensuring safe energy dissipation.
2Speed
If a separate discharge resistor is used externally, then discharge is possible, but response time is slow and safety is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The discharge function is merged into the capacitor device itself through the integrated short-circuiting switch, enabling rapid discharge without external components. This integration achieves fast response time while eliminating complex external discharge device structures.
Solution Approach 2:
The short-circuiting switch is pre-positioned in parallel with the capacitor terminals, ready for immediate activation. This preliminary arrangement enables instantaneous discharge response when needed, without requiring external equipment setup or connection.
3Temperature
If the capacitor device is short-circuited externally, then discharge occurs, but thermal energy requires external cooling
Solution Approach 1:
The capacitor device utilizes the vehicle's body structure as an integrated heat sink for thermal energy dissipation. This self-service approach eliminates the need for external cooling devices while effectively managing the thermal energy generated during short-circuit discharge.
Solution Approach 2:
The vehicle's body structure serves multiple functions: structural support and heat dissipation. By utilizing the body structure as a thermal management system, the patent eliminates dedicated cooling components while maintaining effective heat dissipation during capacitor discharge.
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 enables quick and safe neutralization of high voltages, enhancing safety and eliminating the need for external cooling devices, by integrating the discharge process within the vehicle, thus improving safety and efficiency during maintenance and accidents.
Implementation Method 1
a capacitor device (6) for storing electric energy
Implementation Method 2
the capacitor device is connected advantageously in a heat conductive manner to the parts of the body of the vehicle, in particular to the parts of the side door sill, or preferably to the parts of the cardan tunnel, respectively
Implementation Method 3
the released energy is converted into heat via the discharge resistor
Data Source
AI summary
A motor vehicle is provided with a capacitor device for storing electric energy. The capacitor device is specifically discharged by a short-circuiting switch, which is arranged in parallel to the terminal posts of the capacitor device, without any intermediary activity of a separate discharge resistor.