Dual APM Power Conversion for Post-Impact HV Isolation
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Solution Overview
Problem
In the event of a vehicle impact, existing electrical systems face challenges in maintaining low voltage loads while preventing high voltage current from flowing throughout the vehicle, posing a risk to electrical integrity.
Innovation Solution
A system and method involving a power conversion device with switches and sensors to manage the connection between high and low voltage sources, allowing for the operation of low voltage loads and safe discharge of high voltage current, including a configuration switch mechanism and processor control for various vehicle modes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Object-affected harmful factors
If the first switch is opened to prevent high voltage current flow after impact, then high voltage electrical safety is improved, but low voltage load operation may be interrupted
Solution Approach 1:
The system divides the power conversion path into two separate APMs (Accessory Power Modules) with independent switch control. The first APM is disconnected via the first switch to prevent high voltage current flow, while the second APM remains connected via the second switch to maintain low voltage load operation. This segmentation allows independent control of high voltage isolation and low voltage power supply.
Solution Approach 2:
The second APM acts as an intermediary power conversion path that takes over when the first APM is disconnected. The controller switches from using the first APM to using the second APM for power conversion, ensuring continuous low voltage power supply while the first APM is isolated for safety.
2Reliability
If the second APM is used to maintain low voltage power after impact, then low voltage load reliability is improved, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system merges the functionality of two APMs into a single redundant power conversion subsystem. Both APMs perform the same power conversion function, and the controller automatically selects which one to use based on system state. This merging provides redundancy without requiring completely separate systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The switch configurations are dynamically adjusted based on system state. During normal operation, both switches may be closed with current balancing between APMs. After impact, the first switch opens and the second switch closes to maintain power. The system transitions from a static to dynamic switching architecture to handle different operational modes.
3Use of energy by moving object
If current balancing is performed between first and second APM, then power conversion efficiency is improved, but control complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The controller implements current balancing by monitoring the current through each APM and adjusting the duty cycles of their respective switches. When both APMs are active, the controller ensures equal current distribution to optimize power conversion efficiency and prevent overheating. This feedback control mechanism dynamically adjusts operating parameters based on real-time system state.
Data Source
AI summary
A vehicle includes a system for operating the vehicle. The system includes a high voltage power source, a first Accessory Power Module (APM) that converts power between high voltage and low voltage, a first switch for controlling a connection between the high voltage power source and the first APM, a second APM that converts power between high voltage and low voltage, a second switch for controlling a connectivity between the high voltage power source and the second APM, an On Board Charging Module (OBCM) connected to the first APM between the first switch and the first APM, a sensor for detecting an impact event at the vehicle and generating a signal upon detecting the impact event, and a processor. The processor receives the signal from the sensor and places the first switch in an open configuration and the second switch in a closed configuration in response to the signal.