Integrated Current Sensing and Resistor Cutoff for Fast Overcurrent Blocking
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current battery pack safety systems, particularly in electric vehicles, face delays in blocking overcurrent due to the need for communication between current sensors and control devices, leading to potential safety hazards and damage.
Innovation Solution
A current measurement apparatus with an electrically conductive resistor and a control unit that measures current and issues a control signal to cut the resistor, allowing for immediate overcurrent blocking without relying on a separate control device like a BMS, using a cutting unit that can physically separate the resistor to interrupt the current flow.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a separate control device (BMS) is used to block overcurrent, then the control function is distributed and reliable, but the response time is delayed due to communication requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the current measurement function and the current blocking function into a single integrated device. The control unit is directly connected to the resistor that can be cut to block current, eliminating the need for separate control devices and communication protocols. This integration enables immediate response to overcurrent conditions while maintaining reliable control through direct actuation.
Solution Approach 2:
The current measurement apparatus performs self-protection by autonomously detecting overcurrent conditions and immediately blocking the current flow through its own integrated control unit. The device does not require external control signals or communication with separate BMS systems, allowing it to self-protect the battery pack in real-time without delay.
2Adaptability or versatility
If communication protocols are implemented between current sensor and control device, then data transmission is standardized, but the system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts and eliminates the communication protocol layer from the system by integrating the control function directly into the measurement apparatus. Instead of requiring standardized data transmission between separate components, the control unit receives measurement data internally and directly actuates the current blocking mechanism, simplifying the system architecture while maintaining functional versatility.
3Reliability
If a fuse or relay is used as current blocking element, then the blocking function is simple and reliable, but the response speed is limited by mechanical operation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces mechanical blocking elements (fuses and relays) with an electronically controlled resistor cutting mechanism. The control unit can rapidly cut the resistor through electronic control without mechanical moving parts, achieving both the reliability of physical disconnection and the high speed of electronic actuation, thereby eliminating the inherent speed limitations of mechanical systems.
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 quick overcurrent blocking, reducing the time to prevent damage and ensuring safer battery pack operations by eliminating the need for communication with a BMS, thus enhancing safety and reducing the risk of accidents.
Implementation Method 1
a control unit (500) mounted on the circuit board (400) and configured to measure a current flowing in the resistor (300) based on a voltage value between the first terminal (100) and the second terminal (200) and a resistance value of the resistor (300)
Implementation Method 2
a cutting unit (600) and configured to cut the resistor (300) according to a control signal of the control unit (500)
Data Source
AI summary
A current measurement apparatus configured to quickly block current. The current measurement apparatus includes a first terminal, a second terminal, a resistor interposed in a separated space between the first terminal and the second terminal; a circuit board, a control unit mounted on the circuit board and configured to measure a current flowing in the resistor by using a voltage value between the first terminal and the second terminal and a resistance value of the resistor, and a cutting unit located above or below the resistor and configured to cut the resistor according to a control signal of the control unit.