Detachable Auxiliary Battery Pack for Vehicle Jump-Starting
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Vehicles often face starting issues due to discharged batteries, which can be caused by prolonged use of electrical systems when the engine is off, and lack of a practical solution for emergency power when the alternator fails, posing safety risks and requiring proximity to another vehicle or jump-starting equipment.
Innovation Solution
A detachable auxiliary power system utilizing a lithium-ion battery as a high-energy-density, compact power source that can be integrated into a vehicle, providing an alternative or supplemental power source for starting and running the vehicle, with a two-part configuration allowing the battery to be used independently or connected to the vehicle's electrical system for charging or jump-starting.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Quantity of substance
If a traditional lead-acid battery is used in the vehicle, then the vehicle can start and operate electrical systems, but the battery occupies excessive space and has limited energy density
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the chemical composition parameter of the battery from traditional lead-acid chemistry to lithium-ion chemistry, which fundamentally alters the energy density characteristics. This parameter change enables the battery to store more energy in a smaller volume, directly resolving the contradiction between energy density and battery volume.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs composite material structure by combining lithium-ion battery cells with a housing that integrates multiple functions (storage, charging, safety features). This composite approach allows the battery system to achieve high energy density while maintaining compact overall volume through efficient space utilization and integrated design.
2Reliability
If the vehicle relies on the alternator for electrical power, then the battery can be recharged, but the vehicle cannot start or operate when the engine is stopped and alternator is not running
Solution Approach 1:
The detachable battery system enables the vehicle to be self-sufficient for starting operations without relying on external jump-starting equipment or another vehicle. The battery independently provides sufficient power to start the engine and operate essential electrical systems, making the vehicle self-service capable and eliminating the need for external assistance in emergency situations.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements a dynamic power architecture where the battery can operate in multiple modes: independently providing starting power, charging from the alternator when the engine runs, or being detached and used in other applications. This dynamic flexibility allows the system to adapt to different operational scenarios, resolving the contradiction between starting reliability and operational versatility.
3Reliability
If jump-starting equipment is kept in the vehicle for emergencies, then the vehicle can be restarted when the battery is discharged, but the equipment occupies space and requires manual handling
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the functions of a portable jump-starter, battery charger, and emergency power supply into a single integrated detachable battery unit. This combination eliminates the need for separate jump-starting equipment and cables, providing emergency starting capability while improving ease of operation through a unified, ready-to-use system that requires no manual connection procedures.
Solution Approach 2:
The detachable battery system is designed to be self-service capable, providing emergency starting power directly without requiring the user to manually connect jump-starting cables or operate complex equipment. The battery independently delivers the necessary power to start the vehicle, making the emergency starting process simple and convenient while maintaining high reliability.
4Use of energy by moving object
If the battery is permanently installed in the vehicle, then it can provide continuous power, but it cannot be removed for use in other applications or easy replacement
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the battery system into a detachable battery unit and a vehicle mounting interface, allowing the battery to be easily removed and reinstalled or used in other applications. This segmentation maintains the ability to provide continuous power when installed while enabling flexibility and reusability when detached, resolving the contradiction between continuous power supply and battery adaptability.
Solution Approach 2:
The detachable battery is designed with universal applicability, serving multiple functions: providing starting power to the vehicle, serving as emergency power supply, charging from the alternator, and being usable in other applications when detached. This multi-functionality resolves the contradiction by enabling the battery to provide continuous power when needed while maintaining adaptability and reusability across different uses.
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 enables reliable starting and running of vehicles without the need for external jump-starting equipment, reduces space requirements, and provides safety features like lighting and signaling, addressing the limitations of traditional battery solutions and jump-starting methods.
Implementation Method 1
A detachable auxiliary power system utilizing a lithium-ion battery as a high-energy-density, compact power source
Data Source
AI summary
Detachable auxiliary power systems are disclosed. In some embodiments, the power system comprises a housing with a cavity, and a detachable portion configured to be received into the cavity. The detachable portion includes a power source such as a rechargeable battery, and may include additional electrical circuits to manage the charge and discharge of the battery. The housing includes a cable for electrically connecting the housing to an external electrical system, such as a vehicle electrical system. When the detachable portion is inserted into the housing, it is electrically connected to the cable, and so able to be charged from the external electrical system, and selectively provide power from the power source to the external electrical system, such as for jump-starting a vehicle.